How To Clear LG Dishwasher Error Codes (full easy guide)
LG dishwashers have a good reputation for their reliability and performance. But, like all dishwashers, they can be susceptible to various faults or errors.
LG dishwashers have a diagnostic system that displays an error code when a fault is detected. Which is great, but this system is only helpful if you understand what that particular error code signifies.
That’s where this article comes in, below, we have listed all of the error codes you’re likely to see displayed on your LG dishwasher. We also offer the best ways to fix these issues and get your dishwasher up and running again.
What Do The Error Codes Signify On A LG Dishwasher?
The error codes displayed on a LG dishwasher are there for diagnostic purposes to help the technician narrow down their search when investigating what’s wrong with your dishwasher. This means that in many cases, the error code cannot be cleared until action is taken to fix whatever fault is signified by the code.
However, understanding what each error code signifies can go a long way in solving the issue. In some cases, you can solve the problem yourself. Without the need for expensive repairs or replacing parts.
Let’s start by identifying all of the error codes you’re likely to find displayed on a LG dishwasher which are;
| Error Code | Indicates |
|---|---|
| AE | Suspected water leak |
| BE (bE) | Bubble error (too many soap suds or unlevel appliance) |
| CE | Motor error |
| CL | Child lock |
| CR | Test mode |
| E1 | Suspected water leak |
| FE | Fill error (too much water in the dishwasher) |
| HE | Heating error |
| IE | Inlet error (insufficient water entering the appliance after 10 minutes) |
| LE | Motor error |
| NE (nE) | Vario motor error |
| OE | Outlet error (drainage issue) |
| PF | Power failure |
| TE (tE) | Thermal error (water temperature too high) |
| U46 | Button stuck |
| U40 | Door unlatched |
| 6E | Incorrect detergent or unlevel appliance |
Let’s take a closer look at each of these error codes;
LG Dishwasher Error Code AE
The AE error code can be displayed by the detection of too much water in the drain pan, the circulation pump working too hard and too fast due to not enough water in the tub, using the wrong type of detergent, using too much detergent, a defective leak sensor or an unlevel dishwasher.
You will need to;
- Check the appliance for leaks
- Check that you have used the correct detergent in the right quantity
- Clean the detergent dispenser of excess detergent
- Check that the dishwasher is level
- Inspect the drain pan for excess water
- Check the leak sensor is working properly using a multimeter
- Check the pump, hoses, internal hoses, seals and gaskets
LG Dishwasher Error Code BE (bE)
This error code is displayed when a water leak or too many soap suds are detected. This is typically caused when incorrect or excessive amounts of detergent are used, or the dishwasher is not on level ground.
You will need to;
- Check that you have used the correct detergent in the right quantity
- Ensure the dishwasher is level
- Remove the excess soap suds by placing a bowl with 10 ounces (284 ml) of milk on the top rack and running a short wash cycle ( you could sprinkle salt or coffee creamer on the suds to do the same thing)
LG Dishwasher Error Code CE
Error code CE indicates a problem with the dishwasher’s motor or the wiring connecting the motor to the control board. The motor is typically connected to the circulation pump. You can often solve this problem by performing a hard reset.
You will need to;
- Disconnect the power supply by removing the plug or tripping the circuit breaker
- Wait for 10 to 15 minutes
- Reconnect the power supply, this should have cleared the fault code
- If the error code persists, you’ll need to get the motor, wiring and control board checked (we recommend getting a technician to do this for you
LG Dishwasher Error Code CL
If your LG dishwasher is displaying CL, it’s not technically an error code. CL indicates that the child lock has been activated and whilst in this mode, none of the controls on the dishwasher will work.
You will need to;
- Consult your user manual for the relevant buttons to deactivate the child lock function on your dishwasher
LG Dishwasher Error Code CR
The CR code is also not an error code, it signifies that the LG dishwasher is in test mode. This is a standard procedure but you can clear it if you’re in a hurry.
You will need to;
- Disconnect the power for 10 to 15 minutes (this should take the dishwasher out of test mode)
LG Dishwasher Error Code E1
The E1 error code is the same as the AE error code, it just depends on the model dishwasher you own. It indicates that the dishwasher has detected; too much water in the drain pan, not enough water in the tub which has led to the circulation pump working too hard or too fast, a defective leak sensor, the wrong detergent or too much detergent or an unlevel appliance.
You will need to;
- Inspect the dishwasher for any leaks
- Check that you used the correct type and quantity of detergent
- Clean the detergent dispenser
- Inspect the drain pan for excess water and remove it
- Check the leak sensor for continuity using a multimeter
- Check that the dishwasher is level
- Inspect the pump, hoses, internal hoses, pump gasket and door gasket for any leaks
LG Dishwasher Error Code FE
The FE error code indicates that the dishwasher has detected too much water. This could mean the water inlet valve is defective or it could be a faulty control board.
You will need to;
- Disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes
- If the error code persists, you will need to check the water inlet valve
- Check the control board for continuity
- If either of these proves to be faulty, we recommend getting a technician to repair or replace as necessary
LG Dishwasher Error Code HE
The HE error code indicates a heating error and is typically displayed if the dishwasher fails to heat the water or overheats the water. This could be caused by a defective heating element, defective thermistor (temperature sensor), a defective heater relay or a control board error.
You will need to;
- Disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes
- Reconnect the power supply and see if the error code has gone
- Check the temperature of the water in the dishwasher it should never exceed 65 C (149 F) if it does, contact a technician
- Inspect the heating element, thermistor, temperature sensor and control board for any damage
LG Dishwasher Error Code IE
The IE error code indicates that there’s insufficient water entering the dishwasher in a 10 minute period. This can be caused by insufficient water pressure, a kink in the inlet hose, a defective water inlet valve, the inlet supply tap isn’t fully open or the drain hose is too low.
You will need to;
- Ensure the inlet tap is fully open
- Ensure the inlet hose isn’t kinked or twisted
- Check that the water pressure supplying your dishwasher is at least 20 psi (this can be checked by filling a 1 gallon bucket (4.5 litre) with water from the cold tap in the kitchen. If it takes 30 seconds or less to fill, the water pressure is sufficient)
- Inspect the inlet valve and replace if necessary
- Ensure the drain hose is correctly installed (with a high loop)
- If you still have the error code, contact a technician
LG Dishwasher Error Code LE
Depending on the model LG dishwasher you own, you might get a LE error code instead of a CE error code. However they both signify the same problem. Which is a motor error and can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged wiring or a control board fault.
You need to;
- Disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes if that doesn’t clear the code
- Check the motor
- Check the circulation pump
- Check the wiring between the motor and the control board
LG Dishwasher Error Code NE
The NE or “nE” error code on a LG dishwasher indicates an issue with the vario motor or the control board. Both of which are best checked by a technician.
You need to;
- Disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes
- Get the wiring checked between the vario motor and the control board
- Get the vario motor and control board checked
LG Dishwasher Error Code OE
This error code indicates there’s a problem concerning drainage. It could be caused by a clogged filter, blocked drain hose, blocked waste disposal unit, blocked air gap or a faulty drain pump.
You need to;
- Clean the filter
- Check the drain hose and remove any blockages
- Check the waste disposal unit (if applicable)
- Check the air gap (if applicable)
- Check the drain pump
LG Dishwasher Error Code PF
The PF error code signifies a power failure which could be caused by a power cut, power surge or a problem with the circuit breaker.
You will need to;
- Press any random key on the control panel and hold for 10 seconds to see if this clears the error code
- If the above step doesn’t work, disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes
- If none of the above work, check that the dishwasher has a dedicated circuit breaker with the following values; 120v, 60 Hz, AC only with at least 15 amps
LG Dishwasher Error Code TE
The TE or “tE” error code on a LG dishwasher indicates a thermal error. This happens when the temperature of the water rises higher than 90 C (194 F). This typically indicates a problem with the thermistor or temperature sensor.
You will need to;
- Check and replace the thermistor if necessary
- Check and replace the temperature sensor if necessary
LG Dishwasher Error Code U46
This error code indicates one of the buttons is stuck or there is a control board problem.
You need to;
- Check all of the buttons to find one that’s stuck (the stuck button should be cleaned and then tap all around it to free it)
- If the error code persists, disconnect the power supply for 10 to 15 minutes.
- If the above doesn’t work, you will need to get the control board checked out which is best done by a technician
LG Dishwasher Error Code U40
The U40 error codes signifies an unlatched door. This could be simply that the door isn’t fully closed, the latch is damaged, the sensor is defective or the hinges are bent.
You will need to;
- Ensure there are no dishes or pan handles etc, obstructing the door
- Check that the door latch, sensor and strike plate are in good working order
- Check that the dishwasher is level
LG Dishwasher Error Code 6E
The 6E error code signifies that the wrong detergent has been used, too much detergent has been used or the dishwasher isn’t level. 6E is exactly the same as the BE (bE) error code.
You will need to;
- Check that you have used the correct detergent in the right quantity
- Ensure the dishwasher is level
- Remove the excess soap suds by placing a bowl with 10 ounces (284 ml) of milk on the top rack and running a short wash cycle ( you could sprinkle salt or coffee creamer on the suds to do the same thing)
What To Do In The Event Of An Error Code Being Displayed On Your LG Dishwasher
In this article we have covered all of the most likely error codes that are ever going to be displayed on a LG dishwasher. If you are not sure what an error code signifies, you can check the list above.
However, if a different error code is displayed and you don’t know what it means, consult your user manual or contact LG directly by calling 0344 847 1402 or by following this link.
SEE ALSO: LG Dishwasher Troubleshooting Guide: Problems, Solutions & Error Codes
Frequently Asked Questions
The AE error code suggests issues such as excessive water in the drain pan, improper detergent usage, leaks, or an unlevel dishwasher. To resolve this, check for leaks, use the correct detergent, clean the dispenser, ensure the dishwasher is level, and inspect the drain pan and sensors.
The BE error code signals a water leak or excessive soap suds. To address this, use the correct detergent, level the dishwasher, and remove excess suds by running a short wash cycle with a bowl of milk on the top rack.
The CE error code on a LG dishwasher indicates a motor or wiring problem. Try a hard reset by disconnecting the power for 10-15 minutes. If the issue persists, seek professional assistance to check the motor, wiring, and control board.
The CL code on a LG dishwasher means the child lock is activated. Refer to your user manual to deactivate the child lock and regain control over the dishwasher’s functions.
The CR code on a LG dishwasher isn’t technically an error code and actually indicates the dishwasher is in test mode. To exit this mode quickly, disconnect the power for 10-15 minutes.
The E1 error is similar to the AE code and indicates issues like water imbalance, detergent problems, or leaks. Inspect for leaks, use the right detergent, clean the dispenser, and ensure proper levelling.
The FE error code on a LG dishwasher suggests too much water detected. Try disconnecting power for 10-15 minutes. If the issue persists, check the water inlet valve and control board, and seek professional help if needed.
The HE error code on a LG dishwasher indicates a heating problem. Disconnect power for 10-15 minutes, check water temperature, and inspect the heating elements, thermistor, and control board for damage.
The IE error indicates insufficient water entering the dishwasher. Ensure the inlet tap is open, check hoses for kinks, verify water pressure, and inspect the inlet valve. If the issue persists, contact a technician.
Both LE and CE error codes signify a motor error on a LG dishwasher. Try a power reset, and if the code persists, check the motor, circulation pump, and wiring between the motor and control board.
The NE error suggests issues with the vario motor or control board on a LG dishwasher. After disconnecting power, have a technician check the wiring, vario motor, and control board.
On a LG dishwasher the OE error code indicates a drainage problem. Clean the filter, check the drain hose for blockages, inspect the waste disposal unit, air gap, and drain pump.
The PF error code on a LG dishwasher indicates a power failure. Try holding a key for 10 seconds or disconnect power for 10-15 minutes. If unsuccessful, check the dedicated circuit breaker for the dishwasher.
The TE error code on a LG dishwasher indicates a thermal error. Check and replace the thermistor or temperature sensor if necessary.
The U46 error code on a LG dishwasher suggests a stuck button or a control board problem. Check for stuck buttons, clean them, and if the issue persists, disconnect power for 10-15 minutes. If needed, consult a technician for control board inspection.
If your LG dishwasher is displaying the U40 error code it signifies an unlatched door. Ensure the door is fully closed, check latch, sensor, and hinges for any issues, and make sure the dishwasher is level.
The 6E error code on a LG dishwasher indicates issues with detergent or levelling. Check detergent usage, ensure proper levelling, and remove excess suds if needed.
