Absolute LG Washing Machine Error Codes: What They Mean and What to Do
LG front loaders and top loaders show a two-letter code when something goes wrong. Most point to a simple cause you can check yourself. Here's what each one means, and which ones need a repair.
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The most common LG washing machine codes are OE (not draining), IE (not filling with water), UE (unbalanced load), dE (door not locking), LE (motor locked or overloaded), PE (water level sensor), tE (temperature sensor), FE (too much water) and AE or E1 (water leak). Many can be cleared by cleaning the drain filter, checking the tap and inlet hose, or rebalancing the load and restarting. If the same code returns, a part needs testing.
Common LG error codes
| Code | Meaning | Try this first |
|---|---|---|
| OE | Not draining | Clean the drain pump filter behind the small flap at the bottom front, and check the drain hose isn't kinked or blocked. |
| IE | Not filling, or filling too slowly | Check the tap is fully open, the inlet hose isn't kinked, and the small mesh filter where the hose meets the machine is clean. |
| UE | Load unbalanced | Spread the load out. A single heavy item like a bath mat or duvet is the usual cause. Check the machine is level. |
| dE / dE1 / dE2 | Door not closed or not locking | Close the door firmly and check nothing is caught in the seal. If it keeps coming back, the door lock or switch needs replacing. |
| LE | Motor locked or overloaded | Reduce the load and check nothing is jammed between the drum and the tub. If it repeats: the motor, rotor position (hall) sensor or wiring. |
| PE | Water level (pressure) sensor fault | Usually needs a technician to test the sensor and its hose. |
| tE | Temperature sensor or heating fault | Needs testing of the thermistor and heating element. |
| FE | Too much water (overfill) | Switch off at the wall. Usually an inlet valve that won't close or a level sensor fault. Needs a technician. |
| AE / E1 | Water leak detected | Switch off, look for water underneath, and check the hoses and door seal. |
| CE | Motor current overload | Reduce the load. If it repeats, the motor or control board needs testing. |
| PF | Power failure during the cycle | Usually just load-shedding or a power cut. Restart the cycle. |
| Sud | Too many suds | Not a fault. Use less detergent, and only front-loader (HE) detergent. |
| CL | Child lock on | Not a fault. Hold the child lock button (often two buttons together) for a few seconds. |
Codes can vary by model and year. Your manual will confirm.
How to reset an LG washing machine
- Switch it off and unplug it, or switch it off at the wall.
- Wait 10 minutes for the electronics to reset fully.
- Fix the likely cause from the table: the filter, tap, load or door.
- Switch on and run a short Rinse + Spin to test.
LG direct drive machines
Most LG front loaders use a direct-drive motor with no belt. They're quiet and reliable, but LE and CE codes on these often come from the rotor position (hall) sensor or the stator rather than the whole motor, which keeps the repair cost down. Bearings are the other common wear item on older machines. Listen for a roar on spin. See our washing machine noise guide.
LG washing machine repairs near you
We repair LG front loaders, top loaders and washer-dryers on site: Johannesburg, Pretoria and Krugersdorp. Got a Samsung? See Samsung error codes.
Frequently asked questions
What does OE mean on an LG washing machine?
OE means the machine can't drain. Clean the drain pump filter behind the flap at the bottom front and check the drain hose. If it still shows OE, the drain pump may need replacing.
What does IE mean on an LG washing machine?
IE means it isn't getting enough water. Check that the tap is fully open, the inlet hose isn't kinked, and the mesh filter at the hose connection is clean.
What does UE mean on an LG washer?
UE means the load is unbalanced, so it won't spin at full speed. Spread the clothes out, avoid washing one heavy item on its own, and check the machine is level.
What does LE mean on an LG washing machine?
LE means the motor is locked or overloaded. Reduce the load and check nothing is jammed. If it repeats, the rotor position sensor, motor or wiring needs testing.
How do I reset my LG washing machine?
Switch it off at the wall for 10 minutes, fix the likely cause, and restart with a short cycle. If the same code comes back, call a technician.
LG code won't clear?
WhatsApp us a photo of the display and the model number (on the sticker inside the door rim or on the back). Monday to Saturday, 07:30–17:30.
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