LG front-load washer error codes

Error codes on a front-loading LG washing machine indicate many problems from operational missteps to routine maintenance needs to significant issues caused by malfunctioning parts.

Don’t fear the worst when a fault code appears on your washer’s control panel. Turn to basic troubleshooting to see if there’s a simple fix. Problems like an unbalanced load, improper door closure, or a power failure could be solved rather simply.

Other problems might require a little bit of work, such as checking to make sure there are no obstructions or clogs preventing water from entering or exiting the machine.

Often, the basic fix or resetting the machine might clear the error. 

In instances where the troubleshooting tips tell you to reset the machine, press the power button to turn the washer off, and either unplug the machine or flip the circuit breaker off for at least 10 seconds. Push and hold the start/pause button for five seconds. Then plug in the machine or turn the circuit breaker back on, hit the power button, and initiate a cycle to see if the error code persists.

Barring minor errors, your LG washing machine could have a more significant problem. For many people, it’s best to call for a certified repair technician from Sears Home Services.

It’s good to have your model number handy for ordering service or parts. To find a model and serial number on an LG front-loader, open the washer door and look for a sticker or plate on the door frame.

If you have good DIY skills, check the LG washer error codes glossary below, the how-to help page, or the common symptoms links below. When you need replacement parts for an LG washing machine, turn to Sears PartsDirect, which stocks millions of items for many brands and types of appliances.

Error Codes for LG Front-Load Washers

IE: Inlet water supply error

The IE error means the washer isn’t reaching the expected water level. Check the water supply faucets behind the washer to make sure they are fully open. Check the inlet hoses for kinks or freezing (in winter), and replace the hoses if the kinks are the result of damage. 

Have a bucket ready to drain water from the hoses and disconnect the hoses from the back of the washer to check them and the water inlet filters for blockages (clean, if necessary). Check the inlet water valves for defects (replace, if necessary). If the inlet valves are OK, the main electronic control board might need to be replaced.

UE: Unbalanced load

The UE error code can be triggered by several types of unbalanced loads. First, try redistributing the garments in the washer. Small loads that become unbalanced can often be fixed by increasing the load size. 

Heavy items mixed with light ones can be problematic, as can large bulky items such as bedding that gets stuck on one side of the tub. Barring these problems, make sure the washer is properly leveled.

OE: Drains slowly

Check for a clogged drain and make sure the drain hoses are free of kinks or clogs. Then, test the spin cycle to see if OE code is cleared. Check the drain pump for proper operation. 

Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connection between the electronic control board and the drain pump for loose connections. Test the harness for damage and replace, if necessary. 

Plug in the washer and run a spin cycle to test whether you hear the drain pump motor humming. If you do, check the drain pump filter for small items or clogs. Excessive suds from using too much detergent can also cause the drain pump to malfunction, necessitating running a tub clean cycle. If the drain pump motor does not hum, call a service technician or replace the drain pump.

FE: Water overflow error

The drain pump runs constantly when the FE error code is displayed. Run the spin cycle to drain the washer and reinitiate the wash cycle to see if the FE error code persists. Check the inlet water valves to see if they shut off the water supply properly after the washer is filled. If the inlet water valves are defective, replace the inlet valve assembly.

PE: Water level sensor failure

A disruption of power often triggers the PE error code. To reset the washer, unplug the washer for 10 seconds. Press and hold the start button for five seconds. Plug in the washer. Restart the cycle to see if the error persists. This could be a sign of a faulty water level sensor or wire harness.

dE: Door is open error

The dE error could appear as dE1, del, dEL, or dE2, and each signifies the door is not locking. Unplug the washer. Check the door for an obstruction or damage. If the door is damaged, replace any defective parts. If the door closes properly, press and hold the start button for five seconds to reset the washer. 

Plug the washer in and restart the cycle to see if the error code persists. If it does, the washing machine might have a faulty door lock assembly, switch assembly, or wiring. Call for service.

tE: Heating sensor error

The tE code often indicates a heating error. To reset the washer, unplug it for 10 seconds. Press and hold the start button for five seconds. Plug in the washer. Hold down the spin speed button until “no spin” is highlighted. 

Drain the washer and reinitiate the wash cycle to see if the tE code persists. If it does, call for service, or proceed to checking the wiring connections on the thermistor (temperature sensor) using a volt or ohm meter. If the connections are good, the thermistor or heating element likely needs to be replaced. 

LE: Locked drive motor error

The LE code means the washer’s motor is locked, possibly indicating a wash load that is too heavy. To reset the washer, unplug it for 10 seconds. Press and hold the start button for five seconds. Plug in the washer. Reduce the load size and initiate the wash cycle again to see if the error persists. 

If it does, call for service, or begin troubleshooting by checking the wire harness connections on the motor and the hall sensor (tachometer). If the wiring connections are sound, check for damaged motor components and replace, if necessary. If the motor is operating effectively, replace the hall sensor.

EE: EEPROM error on main electronic control board

The EE error code might indicate that the EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) on the control board is corrupted. To reset the washer, unplug it for 10 seconds. Press and hold the start button for five seconds. Plug in the washer. If the code persists, call for service or replace the main control board.

PF: Power failure

A power failure occurred during the cycle. The cycle may not have completed properly. Start a new cycle.

CE: Electrical current error

The CE code means there is excessive electrical current in the motor’s electrical circuit. It could be caused by a power surge, a bad ground, a loose connection, or a short circuit. To reset the washer, unplug it for 10 seconds. Press and hold the start button for five seconds. Plug in the washer. If the error code persists, call for service. The problem could be due to faulty wiring, or a malfunctioning motor, or control board.

tCL: Tub clean cycle 

A tCL message is an intermittent notification to run a tub clean cycle to promote efficient operation of the machine. Pour bleach in the detergent dispenser and select the tub clean cycle. To bypass the tub clean cycle, turn the cycle nob or make selections to run a new wash cycle. The message will appear for a few wash cycles, then will not appear again until the next advised tub clean cycle.

CL: Child lock feature is activated

When the child lock feature is turned on, the control panel is disabled. To activate or deactivate, press and hold the child lock button for three seconds.

Symptoms Common to All Washers

Error codes are a great place to start when troubleshooting a malfunctioning appliance, but many washers don’t have electronic readouts on control panels. Whether you have a modern appliance with displays, a less complex model, or a much older washing machine, there are many symptoms of trouble that are universal regardless of your washing machine’s style or age.