LG Washer Error Codes — Decoded by Appliance.

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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How LG Washer Error Codes Work

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.

Quick Facts

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

LG Washer Water Codes

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

LG Washer Door & Load Balance Codes

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

LG Washer Motor & Electrical Codes

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

LG Washer Heating & Temperature Codes

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

DIY or Call a Pro?

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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Different Brand?

Browse error codes for the other major brands we service.