The complete reference for LG washer error codes across front-load and top-load models. Pick your category below for the full code breakdown organized by problem type.
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Codes Documented
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Appliance Types
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Codes
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Last Updated
LG washing machines use a two-character alphanumeric code system displayed on the control panel LCD. Codes combine a letter indicating the component category (I = inlet, O = outlet/drain, L = lock, t = temperature) with a letter indicating the fault type — usually E for error. Newer models may display lowercase variants like dE or tE.
Models without a digital display (older budget top-loaders) indicate errors via a specific pattern of flashing LED lights on the cycle indicator panel.
The biggest practical advantage on LG's connected models: the LG ThinQ app surfaces the error code with a plain-language diagnosis and recommended first step — pair your machine before you need it.
Each section below organizes codes into problem categories (water supply, drainage, motor, door, heating, sensors) — not a flat alphabetical list — so you can find your fault even if you only know the symptom, not the code.
Code Format
2-char alpha (IE, OE) · Lower: dE, tE
Display Location
Control panel screen · LG ThinQ app
Reset Method
Hold Start/Pause 5 sec, or unplug for 1 minute
Diagnostic Mode
LG ThinQ smart diagnosis (NFC)
Most Common Faults
Water inlet, drainage, unbalanced loadA
4 codes · Most frequently reported fault category
Water codes group into two subcategories: Water Supply Drainage & Overflow. Drainage (OE) leads all reported LG errors — in most cases a clogged drain pump filter clears it in under 10 minutes.
Drainage error — washer can't drain within 10 min. Clean the drain pump filter, check hose for kinks or clogs
Water inlet error — water level not reached in 8–20 min. Check supply valves, hoses, inlet screens (14.5–116 psi required)
Overfill / water overflow — water exceeded limit. Close supply taps, select No Spin to drain; likely a faulty inlet valve
Pressure sensor error — incorrect water level readings. Reset first; if persistent the pressure sensor assembly needs replacing
View all 4 LG water codes
Water issue — kinked hose, closed valve, or low pressure.
Drainage error — drain hose clogged or filter blocked
Water overflow — water level sensor or pressure switch fault
Unbalanced load — redistribute clothes or check shock absorbers
Door not closed properly during cycle
Temperature sensor (thermistor) failure
Organized by problem category, with diagnostic steps
4 codes · Covers front-load and top-load models
Codes split between Door Lock and Load Balance categories. The UE code triggers a built-in rebalancing routine before escalating; the dE family stops the cycle immediately.
Unbalanced load — drum weight too uneven for spin. Redistribute laundry evenly; add towels if washing one large item
Minor imbalance detected — machine will attempt auto-correction. Don't open the door; let it resolve itself first
Door not locked — cycle paused. Re-close firmly, check no clothes are caught in the seal
Door switch fault — door closed but switch not confirming lock. Check wiring; if persistent, door switch assembly needs replacing
Water issue — kinked hose, closed valve, or low pressure.
Drainage error — drain hose clogged or filter blocked
Water overflow — water level sensor or pressure switch fault
Unbalanced load — redistribute clothes or check shock absorbers
Door not closed properly during cycle
Temperature sensor (thermistor) failure
Organized by problem category, with diagnostic steps

4 codes · Drive motor, control board, and electrical faults
Motor and electrical faults range from a quick reset fix (LE from overload) to serious hardware failures. Always attempt a full power reset before booking a service call.
Motor locked — stalled from overload or large single item. Unplug, hold START/PAUSE 5 sec, reduce the load, restart
Motor overcurrent — current exceeded limit due to short circuit or power surge. Unplug 10 sec; if returns, service required
Speed sensor error — hall sensor or tachometer fault. Requires component diagnosis; do not continue running
EEPROM / memory fault — control board memory failure. Board may need reprogramming or replacement
Water issue — kinked hose, closed valve, or low pressure.
Drainage error — drain hose clogged or filter blocked
Water overflow — water level sensor or pressure switch fault
Unbalanced load — redistribute clothes or check shock absorbers
Door not closed properly during cycle
Temperature sensor (thermistor) failure
Organized by problem category, with diagnostic steps

2 codes · Thermistor and freeze protection
Temperature faults on LG washers are almost always a thermistor issue. The tE code prevents the heater from firing unsafely. The FF code is environmental — move the machine to a warmer space.
Thermistor / temperature sensor error — heating circuit can't confirm safe temperature. Unplug 10 sec; if returns the thermistor needs replacing
Freeze / frost detection — machine exposed to near-freezing temps. Move to a warmer area and allow to warm up before restarting
Water issue — kinked hose, closed valve, or low pressure.
Drainage error — drain hose clogged or filter blocked
Water overflow — water level sensor or pressure switch fault
Unbalanced load — redistribute clothes or check shock absorbers
Door not closed properly during cycle
Temperature sensor (thermistor) failure
Organized by problem category, with diagnostic steps
How to tell which LG washer error codes you can clear yourself — and which need a technician.
You can probably fix it yourself if…
The code falls in this list anad the appliance is otherwise functional:
OE — clean the drain filter and inspect the drain hose
IE — check water supply valves and inlet hose for kinks
UE — redistribute the laundry load and restart
dE — fully close the door, check for obstructions in the seal
LE — reduce the load and reset the machine
FF — move machine to a warmer location
You should book a technician if…
The code indicates a hardware fault, or you see any of these signs:
HE (dryer), LC / OC (dishwasher) — Critical: stop using immediately
FE — overflow risk; close supply valves immediately
tE , SE— sensor or motor faults require parts diagnosis
CE — motor overcurrent, electrical risk
EE — control board or memory failure
dE1 — door switch replacement
Code returns after a full reset and basic checks
LG ThinQ shows the code persistently across cycles
You can probably fix it yourself if…
The code falls in this list and the appliance is otherwise functional:
4E / 4C — check water supply valves and inlet hose for kinks
5E / 5C — clean the drain filter and inspect the drain hose
UE — redistribute the laundry load and restart
dC — fully close the door, check for obstructions in the seal
9E (dishwasher) — verify water supply pressure
39E — refill ice maker water line or check shutoff valve
88 — usually clears after a power event reset (unplug 1 min)
You should book a technician if…
The code indicates a hardware fault, or you see any of these signs:
HE (dryer), LC / OC (dishwasher) — Critical: stop using immediately
OE, tE, dF, t5, E27 — sensor or motor faults require parts diagnosis
22E, 5E (refrigerator), 33E — cooling system or compressor risk
C-d1, C-F0 (oven) — control board or door latch replacement
Code returns after a full reset and basic checks
SmartThings shows the code persistently across cycles
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