LG dishwashers display two-letter error codes on the front panel when something goes wrong. This guide covers every common LG dishwasher error code, explains what's causing it, and tells you whether you can fix it yourself or need a professional.
LG Dishwasher Error Codes — Quick Reference
| Code | Meaning | Common Fix | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| AE / E1 | Leakage detected | Check door seal, hose connections | Professional |
| CE | Motor error | Motor replacement | Professional |
| DE | Door latch error | Check door, may need latch replacement | Maybe DIY |
| E2 | Rinse aid dispenser sensor | Sensor replacement | Professional |
| FE | Water overflow | Water inlet valve replacement | Professional |
| HE | Heater error | Heating element replacement | Professional |
| IE | Water inlet error | Check water supply, then professional | Maybe DIY |
| LE / E6 | Motor lock error | Check for blockage, then professional | Maybe DIY |
| nE | Fan motor error | Fan motor replacement | Professional |
| OE | Drain error | Clean drain filter/hose, then professional | Maybe DIY |
| PE | Pressure sensor error | Pressure sensor replacement | Professional |
| TE | Thermistor sensor error | Thermistor replacement | Professional |
AE / E1 — Leakage Detected
AE Leakage Detected Professional
The AE (or E1) code means the dishwasher's leak sensor in the base pan has detected water where it shouldn't be. This could be caused by a loose hose connection, cracked hose, damaged door seal, or a leaking component inside the machine.
What to check: Inspect the door gasket for damage. Check under the dishwasher for visible water. Verify all hose connections are tight. If you can't find an obvious leak, this requires professional diagnosis — internal leaks from the wash pump, sump, or tub can be difficult to locate.
CE — Motor Error
CE Motor Error Professional
The CE code indicates a wash motor malfunction. The motor drives the spray arms to circulate water during the wash cycle. When this code appears, the dishwasher cannot wash effectively.
What to try: Reset the dishwasher by turning off the circuit breaker for 60 seconds. If CE returns, the wash motor, motor wiring, or control board needs professional repair.
DE — Door Latch Error
DE Door Latch Error Maybe DIY
The DE code means the dishwasher doesn't detect that the door is properly latched. The machine won't start or will stop mid-cycle.
What to check: Make sure nothing is blocking the door from closing fully (dish racks, utensils). Inspect the door latch and strike plate for visible damage. Try pushing the door firmly until you hear a click. If the latch is broken or the door switch is faulty, replacement is needed.
FE — Water Overflow
FE Water Overflow Professional
The FE code means the dishwasher has detected too much water in the tub. This is usually caused by a faulty water inlet valve that doesn't shut off properly, allowing water to continuously fill.
What to try: Turn off the dishwasher and the water supply immediately to prevent flooding. This almost always requires a water inlet valve replacement by a professional.
HE — Heater Error
HE Heater Error Professional
The HE code means the heating element is not working properly. The dishwasher uses a heater to raise water temperature for effective cleaning and to dry dishes. Without it, dishes come out dirty and wet.
Cause: Failed heating element, faulty wiring to the heater, or a control board issue. This requires professional diagnosis and repair — the heating element is located under the tub and involves electrical work.
IE — Water Inlet Error
IE Water Inlet Error Maybe DIY
The IE code means the dishwasher is not filling with water or filling too slowly. The machine expects to fill within a certain time and triggers IE if it doesn't.
What to check (DIY): Make sure the water supply valves under the sink are fully open. Check that the water supply hose isn't kinked or crushed. If you recently had plumbing work, verify the water line to the dishwasher is connected. If water supply is fine, the water inlet valve or flow meter may be faulty (professional repair).
LE / E6 — Motor Lock Error
LE Motor Lock Error Maybe DIY
The LE (or E6) code means the wash motor is jammed or cannot rotate. This can happen when a foreign object (broken glass, food debris, a utensil) falls into the sump and blocks the motor impeller.
What to check (DIY): Remove the bottom rack and spray arm. Remove the filter assembly and look into the sump area for any debris or foreign objects. Clean thoroughly and reassemble. If the code persists after clearing any blockage, the motor itself may be failing (professional repair).
nE — Fan Motor Error
nE Fan Motor Error Professional
The nE code indicates the drying fan motor has failed. LG dishwashers with a drying fan use it to circulate air and dry dishes after the wash cycle. Without it, dishes remain wet.
Fix: Fan motor replacement. This is a professional repair as the fan motor is located inside the dishwasher door or housing.
OE — Drain Error
OE Drain Error Maybe DIY
The OE code is one of the most common LG dishwasher errors. It means the dishwasher cannot drain water properly. You'll likely see standing water at the bottom of the tub.
What to check (DIY):
- Drain filter: Remove and clean the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub — food debris is the #1 cause of OE
- Drain hose: Check for kinks or clogs in the drain hose under the sink
- Garbage disposal: If connected to a garbage disposal, make sure the knockout plug was removed during installation
- Air gap: If your sink has an air gap device, clean it
If these don't fix it: The drain pump may be faulty and needs professional replacement.
PE — Pressure Sensor Error
PE Pressure Sensor Error Professional
The PE code means the water level pressure sensor is not working correctly. The sensor tells the control board how much water is in the tub. When it fails, the dishwasher may overfill, underfill, or refuse to start.
Fix: Pressure sensor (or pressure switch) replacement. This is a professional repair.
TE — Thermistor Sensor Error
TE Thermistor Error Professional
The TE code means the temperature sensor (thermistor) is malfunctioning. The dishwasher uses this sensor to monitor water temperature. When it fails, the dishwasher may not heat water properly or may overheat.
Fix: Thermistor replacement. This is a professional repair — the sensor is located inside the tub and requires disassembly to access.
E2 — Rinse Aid Dispenser Sensor Error
E2 Rinse Aid Sensor Error Professional
The E2 code indicates a problem with the rinse aid dispenser sensor. The dishwasher may not dispense rinse aid properly, leading to spotty dishes and poor drying performance.
Fix: Rinse aid sensor or dispenser assembly replacement. Professional repair required.
When to DIY vs. Call a Professional
Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
- Try DIY first: OE (drain — clean the filter), IE (water inlet — check supply valves), DE (door — check for obstructions), LE (motor lock — check for debris in sump)
- Call a professional: AE (leakage), CE (motor), FE (overflow), HE (heater), nE (fan), PE (pressure sensor), TE (thermistor), E2 (rinse aid sensor)
Important: Before attempting any repair, always disconnect the dishwasher from power (turn off the circuit breaker) and shut off the water supply. If you're unsure about a repair, call Nick's Appliance Repair at (437) 747-6737 for professional LG dishwasher repair across Toronto and the GTA.
How to Reset Your LG Dishwasher
Many temporary error codes can be cleared with a simple reset:
- Press and hold the Power button for 3-5 seconds to turn off the dishwasher
- Turn off the circuit breaker that powers the dishwasher
- Wait 60 seconds
- Turn the circuit breaker back on
- Turn on the dishwasher and start a new cycle
If the error code returns after a reset, the underlying problem needs to be addressed — a reset only clears temporary glitches.