LG Dishwasher Error Codes
When an LG dishwasher hits a fault it stops mid-cycle and flashes a two-character code on the display, each pointing to a specific system like drain, fill, heat, or motor. Below are the real codes straight from LG's support library with what each means and the practical fixes a tech tries first.
OE
Means: Outlet/drain error - the tub is not draining fully within the allotted time.
Fix: Clean the mesh filter in the tub floor, then check the drain hose under the sink for kinks and clear any clog at the disposal or air gap. If the drain pump won't run, it likely needs replacement.
IE
Means: Inlet/fill error - water did not reach the required level within about 10 minutes.
Fix: Open the water supply valve fully and straighten any kinked inlet line. Clean the inlet valve screen; if pressure is fine, the water inlet valve or flow sensor is the usual failure.
AE / E1
Means: Leak detected - water has reached the float switch in the base pan.
Fix: Locate and stop the leak: check hose clamps, pump seals, spray-arm fittings, and the door gasket, and confirm the unit sits level. Dry out the base pan so the float resets before restarting.
FE
Means: Fill/overflow error - the unit senses too much water and runs the drain pump automatically.
Fix: Power off at the breaker for 10 seconds and restart. A recurring FE usually means a stuck-open inlet valve or a faulty water-level sensor that needs replacing.
LE
Means: Wash (cleaning) motor error - the circulation motor is not running normally.
Fix: Do a full power reset at the breaker. If it returns, inspect the motor wiring harness and connectors between the motor and control board; a failed motor or harness is common.
CE
Means: Motor communication error - the control board has lost communication with the motor.
Fix: Power off at the breaker for 10 seconds and restart. Persistent CE points to the wiring harness or a failing main control board.
HE
Means: Heater error - the unit could not heat the water or the water overheated above ~149F.
Fix: Turn power off and start a fresh cycle. If HE stays, the heater assembly or its control circuit needs service.
tE
Means: Temperature sensor (thermistor) error - an out-of-range temperature reading.
Fix: The thermistor is part of the heater assembly; check its resistance against spec. If ohms don't track temperature, replace the heater/thermistor assembly.
nE
Means: Vario diverter/pump error - the diverter impeller that switches spray-arm feeds isn't spinning normally.
Fix: Power cycle the unit, as many nE faults clear on reset. Remove both spray arms and clear food debris or foreign objects jamming the diverter; otherwise the diverter motor is faulty.
PF
Means: Power failure - the cycle was interrupted by a power loss or voltage drop.
Fix: Press any key and wait about 10 seconds to clear it. Ensure the dishwasher is on a dedicated 15A grounded circuit with no extension cord; if it recurs, check the outlet and house power.
FAQ
How do I reset an LG dishwasher to clear an error code?
Turn the unit off, switch the circuit breaker off for about 10 seconds, then restore power and start a new cycle. This clears most transient codes like FE, LE, CE, and PF.
Which LG codes point to a leak?
AE, E1, and FE all relate to water in the base pan or overfilling. The dishwasher runs its drain pump to protect itself, so find and fix the leak source and dry the base pan before it will run normally again.