Samsung is a well-known and trusted international brand that has been making washing machines since 1993. However, despite their dependable reputation, occasionally, you may see an error code popping up. The UR error code is one of the most common, but fortunately, the cause of the error is usually one of the easiest issues to fix.

This guide applies to the following Samsung models:

592-49045

592-49075

592-49082

592-49087

WF203ANSXAX

WF206ANSXAA

WF206ANSXAC

WF206BNWXAC

WF210ANWXAA

WF218ANBXAA

WF218ANWXAA

WF219ANBXAA

WF219ANWXAA

WF220ANWXAA

WF328AAGXAA

WF328AARXAA

WF328AAWXAA

WF330ANWXAA

WF340ANGXAC

WF340ANRXAC

WF350ANWXAA

What Causes the UR Error Code?

A UR error code means that the washer is detecting an unbalanced washing load. On some Samsung washers, a UE error code may be given instead. The most typical causes of the error are large, heavy items, such as large towels or bathmats, which end up on one side of the washer or tangled up in the agitator. Other possible causes of the issue include an uneven surface or an issue with the drive belt.

How to Fix the Issue

Unbalanced Laundry Load

Either too much or too little laundry can cause the washer’s drum to be unbalanced. Putting too many items in the washer and overloading it can cause the issue. Removing a few items should resolve the error code.

As mentioned above, large, heavy items are also often responsible for the UR code. Untangling or redistributing the load or adding similar items to balance out the load should fix the issue.

Clothing items with strings or laces from shoes can also cause the error when they get caught in a part of the drum or agitator. To ensure this doesn’t happen, use a washing machine-safe bag or secure the strings so that they cannot get caught in the washer.

Once the weight of load has been rebalanced, the error should be resolved, and the washer will continue with the cycle.

Uneven Surface

One of the less-known causes of the UR error code is that the washer is not sitting level on the floor. If you have recently installed the washer or moved into a new house, you will want to check that the washer is level. Using a level is the best way to check for this issue, or you may be able to spot the issue through a visual inspection. To fix the issue, adjust the washer’s legs by using a wrench and a level.

Failed Control Module

The control module sends and receives electronic signals to operate the washer. Occasionally, the UR error code is caused by a fault with the electronic controller, which has mistakenly identified an unbalanced load error when there is none. Resetting the washer by disconnecting the power to the washer for 10 minutes should fix the issue.

If the error persists and you are certain there is not another cause, you will likely need to replace the controller.

Drive Belt

The drive belt is responsible for turning the tub in the washer. If the drive belt has become loose, is slipping, or is damaged, this may give you the UR error code. If the drive belt is damaged, the issue will be noticeable during the spin cycle, when the tub will struggle to turn, and the washer may detect that the tub is unbalanced. To fix the drive belt issue, you may be able to tighten the belt, or you may need to replace it.

Accessing the drive belt will depend on the type of washer you have. There could be a back, front, or top access panel to remove. With top-loader washers, you will typically need to unscrew the control panel before using a putty knife to lift off the front panel of the washer.

Steps to check and fix the drive belt

1. Unplug the washer from the power source, and turn off the water supply.
2. Depending on the type of washer, remove the relevant access panel(s).
3. Check if the drive belt is loose, slipping, or damaged. You can check if the belt is too loose by pressing down on the belt with your thumb. If you can easily get more than a 1/2 inch, it is not tight enough.
4. The belt can be tightened by tightening the mounting nut. If the belt fails to tighten, it is likely too worn and will need to be replaced.
5. If you decide to replace the drive belt, turn the tub drive pulley, and the belt should fall off.
6. To install a new drive belt, put one end of the new belt around the motor pulley and place the other end on the tub drive pulley. Rotate the tub drive pulley to secure the new drive belt. Purchase a drive belt install tool and/or use a wire tie to help install a new drive belt.

Other Possible Causes

If the drive belt is not responsible for the issue, the following parts should be checked and replaced if found to be defective.

Motor Brushes

The washer motor brushes are responsible for the magnetic field that powers the spin cycle. The washer motor will need to be removed to inspect and replace the motor brushes.

Bearings

The bearings ensure the drum turns smoothly. Over time, they can wear out and cause the UR error code. A grinding noise or excessive shaking indicates that the bearings are at fault.

Hall Sensor / Tachometer

The hall sensor or tachometer controls the number of revolutions that the tub makes. If it is defective, it will need to be replaced.