LG Dishwasher Error Codes

Below are the most common LG dishwasher error codes (also applies to Kenmore). Each code includes what it means, step-by-step DIY fixes, when to call a professional, and repair cost estimates.

Safety Warning

3 high-urgency code(s) should be addressed promptly. If you smell gas, hear unusual sounds, or see sparks, turn off the system and call a professional immediately.

Quick Navigation — 10 Error Codes

Code OE Code IE Code AE Code LE Code nE Code FE Code HE Code tE Code CE Code PF

LG Code OE: Drain error — dishwasher not draining properly

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $325

Common Causes

  • Clogged drain filter
  • Blocked drain air gap or garbage disposal connection
  • Kinked drain hose
  • Failed drain pump

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Remove and clean the drain filter assembly at the bottom of the tub.
  2. Check the drain air gap on the sink (if installed) and clean it.
  3. If connected to a garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear it. Ensure the knockout plug was removed during installation.
  4. Check the drain hose for kinks.

Call a professional when: Filter and drain paths are clear but water remains — the drain pump has likely failed.

LG Code IE: Water inlet error — not filling within 10 minutes

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $120 – $275

Common Causes

  • Water supply valve turned off
  • Kinked water supply line
  • Clogged water inlet valve screen
  • Low water pressure (below 20 PSI)

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check the water supply valve under the sink — turn it fully open.
  2. Inspect the supply line for kinks.
  3. Turn off the supply and disconnect the line at the dishwasher to check for debris in the inlet screen.
  4. Ensure water pressure is between 20-120 PSI.

Call a professional when: Water supply is open and pressure is adequate but the dishwasher still will not fill — the water inlet valve needs replacement.

LG Code AE: Leak detection — water leak sensor activated

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $400

Common Causes

  • Using too much detergent or the wrong type (regular dish soap)
  • Damaged door gasket
  • Cracked spray arm directing water past the door seal
  • Loose hose connection or failed pump seal

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check under and around the dishwasher for visible water.
  2. Ensure you are using only dishwasher detergent — never regular dish soap.
  3. Inspect the door gasket for cracks, tears, or food debris.
  4. If no visible leak, turn off power for 24 hours to let the leak sensor dry, then test.

Call a professional when: A visible leak is coming from inside the dishwasher base — the pump seal, hose, or spray arm needs professional repair.

LG Code LE: Motor error — wash motor malfunction

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $450

Common Causes

  • Wiring issue at the motor (most common cause)
  • Wash pump impeller jammed by debris
  • Failed wash motor
  • Faulty main control board

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power for 10 minutes to reset.
  2. Clean the filter assembly thoroughly — debris can jam the pump impeller.
  3. Check the spray arms for blockages or breakage.
  4. Restart and run a normal cycle.

Call a professional when: The code persists after cleaning and resetting — the motor, wiring, or control board needs professional diagnosis.

LG Code nE: Vario motor error — spray arm motor malfunction

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $375

Common Causes

  • Failed vario motor that controls spray arm switching
  • Debris blocking the spray arm mechanism
  • Wiring issue at the motor
  • Control board fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power for 10 minutes to reset.
  2. Remove and clean both spray arms — check that they spin freely.
  3. Clean the filter assembly.
  4. Run a test cycle.

Call a professional when: The code persists — the vario motor needs professional replacement.

LG Code FE: Fill error — overfill condition detected

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $300

Common Causes

  • Water inlet valve stuck open
  • Faulty water level sensor
  • Drain hose routed improperly causing siphon effect

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Cancel the cycle and turn off the water supply under the sink.
  2. Check the drain hose — it must loop up to the underside of the counter before going to the drain.
  3. Turn off power for 5 minutes, then restore and run a drain cycle.
  4. If water enters with the power off, the inlet valve is stuck.

Call a professional when: Water enters the dishwasher with power off — the water inlet valve must be replaced immediately.

LG Code HE: Heater error — water not heating properly

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Failed heating element
  • Defective temperature sensor
  • Wiring issue to the heater
  • Incoming water temperature too low

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Run hot water at the kitchen sink for 1-2 minutes before starting the dishwasher.
  2. Check that your water heater is set to at least 120 degrees F.
  3. Turn off power for 5 minutes to reset, then test.
  4. Run an empty cycle to see if the code clears.

Call a professional when: Hot water supply is good but dishes come out cold and the code persists — the heating element needs replacement.

LG Code tE: Thermistor error — water temperature sensor fault

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $275

Common Causes

  • Failed thermistor (temperature sensor)
  • Loose wiring at the thermistor
  • Control board not reading the sensor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power for 10 minutes to reset.
  2. Run hot water at the kitchen sink before starting the dishwasher.
  3. Run a normal cycle to test.

Call a professional when: The code persists after a reset — the thermistor needs professional testing and replacement.

LG Code CE: Wash motor overcurrent — motor drawing too much power

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $450

Common Causes

  • Foreign object jamming the wash pump impeller
  • Failed wash motor bearings
  • Wiring short in the motor circuit

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off power immediately.
  2. Clean the filter and check the sump area for broken glass or hard debris.
  3. Remove spray arms and check for obstructions.
  4. Turn power back on and test.

Call a professional when: The filter and sump are clear but the code persists — the wash motor needs professional replacement.

LG Code PF: Power failure — power interrupted during a cycle

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $0 – $150

Common Causes

  • Power outage occurred during operation
  • Circuit breaker tripped
  • Loose electrical connection at the junction box

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press the Power button to clear the code.
  2. Select a new cycle and press Start.
  3. If the breaker tripped, reset it.

Call a professional when: The breaker trips repeatedly when the dishwasher runs — there may be an electrical fault requiring professional diagnosis.

Need LG Repair in Central Texas?

Texas Temp Masters provides expert appliance repair for LG , Kenmore, and all major brands in Killeen, Waco, Temple, and surrounding areas. Call (817) 704-0706 for fast, reliable service, or contact us online.

Error code information cross-referenced from manufacturer documentation, HVAC/appliance professional resources, and verified repair databases. Codes can vary by specific model and control board revision. Always verify against your unit's diagnostic label or owner's manual. Repair costs are estimates based on national averages. Last updated February 2026.

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