LG Washer Error Codes

Below are the most common LG washer 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

1 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 UE Code IE Code dE Code LE Code FE Code PE Code tCL Code CL Code SE

LG Code OE: Drain error — washer not draining within the allowed time

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Clogged drain pump filter (coins, hair pins, lint)
  • Kinked or blocked drain hose
  • Excessive suds creating air pockets that block drainage
  • Failed drain pump motor

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Locate the drain pump filter behind the small access panel at the lower front. Place towels down, slowly unscrew the cap, and clean out debris.
  2. Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Disconnect and flush with water.
  3. Switch to HE detergent and reduce the amount used — excess suds are a common cause.
  4. Run a drain/spin cycle to test.

Call a professional when: The filter and hose are clear but water still will not drain — the drain pump motor needs replacement.

LG Code UE: Unbalanced load — load could not be balanced during spin

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $350

Common Causes

  • Washing a single heavy item without balancing items
  • Overloaded or underloaded washer
  • Washer not level on the floor
  • Worn shock absorbers or suspension rods

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Open the washer, redistribute the laundry evenly around the drum, and restart.
  2. Add 1-2 similar items to balance a single heavy piece like a comforter.
  3. Load the washer to about two-thirds capacity for optimal balance.
  4. Use a bubble level to check the washer is level and adjust the feet as needed.

Call a professional when: The code keeps appearing with properly sized, distributed loads — the shock absorbers or suspension rods are worn and need replacement.

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

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $120 – $275

Common Causes

  • Water supply faucets turned off or not fully open
  • Clogged inlet filter screens
  • Kinked or frozen supply hoses
  • Faulty water inlet valve

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Check that both hot and cold water supply faucets are fully open.
  2. Turn off the supply, disconnect fill hoses, and clean the mesh inlet screens with a brush.
  3. Check hoses for kinks. In cold weather, check for frozen lines.
  4. Water pressure must be between 20-120 PSI for the washer to fill properly.

Call a professional when: Supply lines are clear and pressure is adequate but the washer will not fill — the water inlet valve needs professional replacement.

LG Code dE: Door error — door not properly closed or locked

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $125 – $275

Common Causes

  • Door not fully closed or latched
  • Clothing caught in the door gasket
  • Defective door lock mechanism
  • Door hinge misalignment

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Open the door, check for clothes caught in the gasket, and close firmly until you hear the lock click.
  2. Inspect the door latch and strike for damage or debris.
  3. Unplug the washer for 1 minute to reset the door lock electronics.
  4. Clean the door gasket area of soap residue.

Call a professional when: The door closes and latches properly but the code persists — the door lock assembly needs replacement.

LG Code LE: Motor locked — motor cannot rotate

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $200 – $500

Common Causes

  • Overloaded washer exceeding motor capacity
  • Object stuck between the wash plate and inner basket
  • Failed drive motor
  • Rotor position sensor fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Reduce the load size — remove about half the laundry and try again.
  2. Check under the wash plate (pulsator) for coins, buttons, or other objects that may be jamming it.
  3. Unplug the washer for 30 minutes to reset the motor thermal protection, then test with a small load.
  4. Try spinning the drum by hand — if it does not turn, something is mechanically jammed.

Call a professional when: The drum is not jammed and the load is small, but the code persists — the drive motor or stator assembly needs professional diagnosis.

LG Code FE: Overflow error — water level too high

High Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $300

Common Causes

  • Faulty water inlet valve stuck open
  • Defective water level pressure switch
  • Excessive suds causing false water level reading

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Turn off both water supply faucets behind the washer immediately.
  2. Unplug the washer. Check if water continues to enter the tub — if so, the inlet valve is stuck open.
  3. Run a drain/spin cycle to remove excess water.
  4. Check if you are using too much detergent — excess suds can trigger this.

Call a professional when: Water enters the tub with the washer off — the water inlet valve is stuck open and must be replaced immediately.

LG Code PE: Water level sensor error — pressure switch malfunction

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $150 – $300

Common Causes

  • Defective water level pressure switch
  • Disconnected or cracked pressure hose
  • Clogged pressure switch hose
  • Control board fault

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the washer for 10 minutes to reset, then run a cycle.
  2. If comfortable, check the pressure switch hose for disconnections or cracks.
  3. Blow gently through the hose to check for blockages.

Call a professional when: The code returns after a reset — the pressure switch needs professional testing and replacement.

LG Code tCL: Tub clean reminder — drum cleaning recommended

Low Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $0 – $15

Common Causes

  • The washer has run a set number of cycles since the last tub clean
  • Mold, mildew, or residue buildup inside the drum

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Run the Tub Clean cycle with no clothes in the washer.
  2. Use a washing machine cleaner tablet or 1 cup of white vinegar in the drum.
  3. After the cycle, wipe the door gasket and leave the door open to air dry.
  4. Run Tub Clean once a month to prevent odor and buildup.

Call a professional when: This is a maintenance reminder, not a repair issue. No service call needed.

LG Code CL: Child lock active — control panel locked

Low Urgency

Common Causes

  • Child lock was accidentally activated
  • Button combination pressed unintentionally

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Press and hold the Child Lock button for 3-5 seconds to deactivate.
  2. On some models, press and hold the Temp and Options buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.
  3. Once CL disappears from the display, the controls are unlocked.

Call a professional when: This is not a repair issue. No service call needed.

LG Code SE: Motor sensor error — hall sensor not detected

Medium Urgency
Estimated repair cost: $175 – $400

Common Causes

  • Faulty hall sensor in the motor assembly
  • Loose wire connection at the motor
  • Failed stator assembly
  • Control board not receiving motor feedback

DIY Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Unplug the washer for 10 minutes to reset, then run a cycle.
  2. If comfortable, check the motor wire harness connection — unplug and reseat.
  3. Try running an empty rinse/spin cycle.

Call a professional when: The code persists — the hall sensor or motor assembly needs professional diagnosis and replacement.

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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