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8 min. read

LG Dishwasher Error Codes Explained: Quick Fixes and When to Book a Repair

Dishwashers are a handy appliance present in many households. But due to certain issues, you may experience some LG dishwasher problems.

Despite the brand being known for the quality of its appliances, there are some LG dishwasher error codes that you may see. Some of these are easy to fix while others may require an expert hand.

This guide helps you better understand what different LG dishwasher error codes mean so you can take the right action. We break down the guide into common error codes and status/feature indicators that don’t necessarily indicate errors.

Let’s begin.

Common LG Dishwasher Error Codes

Error code IE: Not filling

An IE error code on an LG dishwasher signals that the dishwasher is not filling with water. Naturally, this means that your dishes won’t get washed. However, there are a few simple ways to check your water connection.
The first of these includes checking your water supply cut-off valve to see if it is fully open. In addition, you can check your water inlet supply hose for kinks. Alternatively, you should check the filter screen on the water inlet valve for any clogs.
If you see clogs, these should be removed and you should have the full functionality of your LG dishwasher once again.

Error code OE: Not draining

An OE error on an LG dishwasher is a symptom of clogs in the sink drain or garbage disposal. However, if you’ve checked both of these and they are okay, you should check the dishwasher hose.
Pull it from the sink or garbage disposal connection and check for grease clogs. If you see any of these, they should be cleaned. Alternatively, if your dishwasher uses an air gap, this should also be checked for and cleaned of any blockages.
Make sure that your dishwasher is completely unplugged from a power source when you do these checks. If this does not resolve the issue, you may need to check the sump and drain pump for obstructions.
Further issues that you could check for are the wire connections. But because the wiring is a complex task that requires an expert hand, it’s highly recommended that you call a professional.

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Error code AE or E1: Water leak detected 

An LG dishwasher error E1 or AE can be caused by a low water level in the tub or an abnormally high circulation pump speed. It’s also possible that some water may leak to the base of the dishwasher cabinet and trip the flood switch.
Here, you’ll need to unplug the dishwasher and shut off the water supply. It’s possible that water could leak from the water fill line, water inlet guide, drain pump, drain hose, door seals or sump. As such, professional help is advised.

Error code FE: Water overflow detected 

With this error code, your dishwasher’s drain pump is going to run automatically. It’s possible that a leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board will fill your dishwasher all the time.
You should unplug the dishwasher and see if it continues to fill with water. If it does this, then you need to have the water inlet valve replaced.

Error code tE: Thermistor (temperature sensor) failure

For this error to occur, it means that your heater assembly, which includes the thermistor, is probably faulty. It may need to be replaced if the ohms and temperature are not within the required range.
For this to be fixed, the dishwasher will need to be unplugged and the wires from the thermistor on the heater will need to be disconnected before the service and part replacement are carried out.

Error code LE: Locked up circulation pump motor 

In this case, your pump impeller is likely obstructed and is prevented from spinning. Here, you’ll need to unplug your dishwasher, check for obstructions and then remove any foreign objects from the sump.
If that’s not the problem, you will need to check the wiring connections on the pump and reconnect any loose wires. If the wires are not the problem, it’s advisable that you call a professional who will use a multimeter to check the resistance through the number of pins on the wire harness for the motor.

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Error code HE: Heater failure 

When you see this error code, it means that your dishwasher’s thermistor or temperature sensor detects that the water is either not heating or that it is heating above the required levels.
If the temperature sensor senses a higher temperature than is normal for a functional LG dishwasher, you may need to have the electronic control board replaced.
The reason for this is that a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to remain on constantly.

Error code nE: Diverter motor failure 

This error code requires that you check the wire harness connections on the diverter motor and diverter position switch. To do this, you need to disconnect the dishwasher from its power supply. Any loose wires should be reconnected.
And if they are not loose, you need to unplug the diverter motor wires and check resistance through the motor using a multimeter. The diverter motor may need to be replaced if the meter measures infinite resistance.

Good to Know: Status/Feature Indicators

Below is a quick reference table to help you decipher common display symbols that aren’t actually error codes that you may see on your LG dishwasher’s display screen. There’s no need to panic because these are just status/feature indicators.

We offer quick checks, rate the DIY difficulty level and indicate whether or not booking repairs is advisable.

CodeWhat It MeansQuick ChecksDIY DifficultyBook Repairs?
CE (paired with LE)Pump impeller obstructedCheck for blockages in the pump or impeller; ensure water isn’t backing up. Unplug for 10 minutes to reset.ModerateYes, if the error returns after reset
bEBubble/wrong detergent usedUse only dishwasher detergent (not washing-up liquid). Run a rinse cycle to clear suds.EasyNo, unless leak or motor noise persists
PFPower failure or interruptionCheck if the dishwasher lost power mid-cycle. Restart cycle once power is stable.EasyNo
2HCycle time exceeds 99 minutes (normal on display)This isn’t an error—just means the remaining time is more than 99 minutes. Wait until time counts down.EasyNo
CDCool-dry phase in progressNormal stage after final rinse. Wait until the process finishes.EasyNo
CRTest or demonstration modeTurn off and on. Hold specific buttons (varies by model) to exit test mode.ModerateYes, if you cannot exit the mode
CL Child lock is activatedPress and hold the designated “Child Lock” buttons for 3–5 seconds to deactivate.EasyNo
P1-P4Downloaded/custom cyclesIndicates custom cycle options, not an error. Select a standard program if unsure.EasyNo
I24/H01/H02Delay start timer (in hours)Displays remaining delay time before start. Cancel delay if needed.EasyNo
n:xx/u:xx/d:xxSoftware or controller versionInformation only – no action required.EasyNo
— — —Draining or cycle cancellation in progressWait for the draining to finish before starting a new cycle.EasyNo

Final remarks

Whether it’s a simple or a more complex fix, when you need your LG dishwasher repaired, you can always count on the experienced engineers at Domex.

With over 10 years of experience in fixing all types of LG appliances, including dishwashers, and our 12-month quality guarantee on faults repaired and/or spare parts fitted, you truly can rest assured that your dishwasher is in great hands due to the quality of our workmanship.

Get in touch with us to have your appliance repaired in a convenient and hassle-free way today.

FAQs

How do I reset an LG dishwasher after an error?

Power off at the switch/consumer unit for one to two minutes, then restart your dishwasher. If the code returns, follow the steps mentioned above. 

What water pressure do LG dishwashers need?

LG provides the following figures as a guideline: 20–120 PSI, equivalent to 1.4–8.3 bar. 

My display shows 2H — is that a fault?

No, it refers to time that’s greater than 99 mins.

How do I exit CR/test mode?

You should first power off your dishwasher, wait for one to two minutes and then power it back on.

Which codes usually mean “call an engineer”?

If you see LE/CE, HE and nE errors repeatedly, your dishwasher displays persistent AE/E1/FE codes or you suspect any faults with the electrics/wiring (tripping breaker, burning smell, persistent leaks, etc.), it’s important to call an expert. Count on Domex to help with a quick and reliable service.

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