LG washer error codes explained: OE, IE, UE, dE, LE, tE and more

LG washing machines report most problems with a two-letter code on the display. The codes are consistent across most LG front-load and top-load models, which makes them a good starting point for diagnosing a fault. Here is what each common code means and what to check first.

LG washer error codes at a glance

Code	Meaning and first checks
OE	Drain error. The washer cannot pump water out. Check the drain pump filter (front loaders, behind the small access panel at the bottom front), a kinked drain hose, or a hose pushed too far into the standpipe.
IE	Inlet error. The tub is not filling within the expected time. Check that both taps are fully open, the inlet hoses are not kinked and the mesh filters at the inlet are clear.
UE	Unbalanced load. The washer could not balance the load for spinning. Redistribute the laundry; single heavy items such as bath mats are the usual culprit.
dE / dE1 / dE2	Door error. The door is not closed or the lock is not engaging. Check for fabric caught in the door and clean the latch area.
LE	Locked motor. The motor could not turn the drum. Overloading can trigger it; if it persists with a normal load, the motor, rotor position sensor or wiring needs checking.
tE	Heating or temperature sensor error. Usually a thermistor or heater fault that needs a technician.
PE	Water level (pressure) sensor error.
FE	Overfill error. Too much water is entering; often a faulty inlet valve. Turn off the water supply if the washer keeps filling.
CL	Not a fault — Child Lock is active. Hold the Child Lock button (often shared with another button) for about three seconds.

Resetting an LG washer

Many codes clear once the cause is fixed. If a code stays on the display, turn the washer off, unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in and run a short rinse-and-spin cycle to confirm the fault has gone. If the same code returns immediately, the problem is still there.

The most common fix: cleaning the drain pump filter

An OE code is by far the most frequent call on LG front loaders. To clear it:

1. Unplug the washer and lay towels in front of it.
2. Open the small access panel at the bottom front.
3. Pull out the small drain hose, remove its cap and let the water drain into a shallow tray.
4. Unscrew the pump filter counter-clockwise and remove lint, coins and hair grips.
5. Refit the filter firmly, replace the cap and close the panel.

When a code means a repair

Codes such as tE, PE and FE, or an LE that keeps returning with a normal load, usually point to a failed component rather than something you can clear yourself. At that stage it is worth booking LG washer repair with a technician who carries common LG parts, so the fault can be fixed in one visit. Always compare the quote with the age of the machine — a sensor or valve is a sensible repair on a five-year-old washer, while a failed motor on a twelve-year-old one may not be.