LG Washing Machine Error Codes : What These Error Codes Mean

LG washing machines display error codes to inform users of issues ranging from simple misalignments to sensor malfunctions. Many problems can be resolved with basic checks and resets, while others may require professional assistance.

LG Washing Machine Error Codes — At a Glance

Error Code Meaning Possible Causes Suggested Fix
IE Inlet Water Error Kinked hose, closed faucet, clogged inlet filter LG Electronics+1Sears Parts Direct Check hose & faucet, clean filters, ensure water pressure is sufficient.
OE Drain / Water Outlet Error Kinked/clogged drain hose, clogged pump filter LG ElectronicsSears Parts DirectParts Town Straighten hose, clean filter, test drain pump.
UE Unbalanced Load Small/bulky load; uneven distribution Sears Parts DirectParts TownLG Electronics Redistribute clothes; adjust load size; level washer.
LE Motor Locked Error / Heavy Load Overloaded drum Parts Town+1LG Electronics Unplug, remove excess load, let rest, then restart.
LE1 Foreign Object Error (top-load models) Coin/object stuck in tub Parts Town+1 Safely remove object.
dE / dE1 / dE2 Door / Drawer Lock Errors Door not fully closed, misaligned, latch issue LG Electronics+1Parts Town Open/close door, reset by unplugging, press Start/Pause, check latch alignment.
dE3 Drawer/Lid Not Properly Closed Obstruction or film on lid (Sidekick models) LG Electronics Clear obstructions, remove protective film, retry.
DL Door Latch Switch Fault Obstruction or defective switch/latch LG Electronics Remove blockage, reset by power-cycle, inspect latch.
FE Overflow / Fill Error Faulty inlet valve or overfill condition zestplan.comLG ElectronicsParts Town Turn off water, run drain-only/spin-only cycle, seek service if persistent.
PE Pressure Sensor / Water Level Error Malfunctioning level sensor; clogged hose zestplan.comSears Parts DirectParts Town Reset by unplugging, then check sensor/hose; consult technician if unresolved.
PF Power Failure / Interruption Power outage or trip zestplan.comLG Electronics Unplug, hold Start/Pause for 5 s while off, restore power and resume cycle.
tE / tE2+ Thermistor / Temperature Sensor Error Faulty thermistor, heating element, or wiring zestplan.comParts Town Reset by unplugging; if it persists, seek professional service.
dHE Dry Heater Error Overheat condition zestplan.comLG Electronics Unplug, wait 10 s, restart; if still active, request service.
HE Heater Error Temporary heater fault LG Electronics Power-cycle and restart; consult technician if unresolved.
SE Sensor Error General sensor malfunction LG Electronics Power-cycle; if issue persists, professional evaluation needed.
SUD / Sud Oversudsing Error Excess detergent creating too many suds LG ElectronicsParts Town Use correct detergent amount; run suds-reduction or tub-clean cycle.
Cd / DR Cool-down / Drain Timeout Indicator Normal operation after idle or end of cycle LG ElectronicsParts Town No action necessary; the unit is performing auto-drain or cool-down.
CL Child Lock / Control Lock Active Feature intentionally engaged LG Electronics Hold the designated buttons (e.g., “Pre-Wash” + “Tub Clean”) for ~3s to disable.
tCL Tub Clean Reminder Reminder to run tub-clean cycle LG Electronics Run Tub Clean cycle with cleaning agent; repeat monthly to avoid buildup.
CE Over-current / Electrical Fault Motor circuit overload, short circuit LG ElectronicsParts Town Unplug briefly, restart; if persists, call service.
E6 Clutch Error (top-load models) Foreign object between pulsator/tub or coupling failure LG Electronics Remove object; if unresolved, professional service needed.
E7 Sidekick Stacking Switch Fault Sidekick misalignment or switch failure LG Electronics Align Sidekick base properly, check stacking switch placement.

Troubleshooting Tips by Severity

Easy DIY Fixes

  • IE / OE / UE / SUD: Often solved by checking hoses, redistributing laundry, using less detergent, or repositioning pipes.
  • CL / Cd / DR: Feature-related codes requiring no repair — just user action or none at all.
  • tCL: Encourages regular internal maintenance for long-term reliability.

Requires Technician

  • Persistent issues involving sensors (PE, tE, SE), electrical faults (CE), or mechanical parts (LE1, E6, E7) may need professional diagnostics and replacement.