If something is wrong with your LG dishwasher, the control panel will display an error code. Of course, the error code is no help if you don’t know what it means. Therefore, we have put together this list of all the LG dishwasher error codes. Depending on the issue, you might even be able to fix the problem yourself!
Make sure to disconnect the power and turn off the water supply to the dishwasher before accessing any internal components.
This guide applies to most LG dishwasher models, including the following:
LDF6810BB, LDF6810ST, LDF6810ST/01, LDF6810WW, LDF6920BB, LDF6920ST,
LDF6920WW, LDF7551ST, LDF7774ST, LDF7810BB, LDF7810ST, LDF7810WW, LDF7811BB, LDF7811ST, LDF7932ST, LDS4821BB, LDS4821ST, LDS4821WW, LDS5540ST, LDS5811ST, LDS5811WW
Error Code AE (also E1): Possible Leak from the Unit
An AE or E1 error code can be triggered by excess water in the drain pan, an abnormally high circulation pump speed caused by not enough water in the tub, a faulty leak sensor, the wrong type or amount of detergent, or a dishwasher that is not level.
Action to take
- Check the dishwasher for leaks
- Check that the right amount and type of detergent has been used
- Remove any buildup of detergent residue around the detergent dispenser
- Check that the dishwasher is level
- Check the drain pan underneath the dishwasher tub for excess water
- Test the leak sensor for continuity with a multimeter (located around the drip pan)
- Check for pump issues, leaking internal hoses, and damaged gaskets or seals.
Error Code bE: Improper Detergent or Failure to Level Dishwasher
The bE error code is often triggered when excess soap suds or a water leak is detected. Excess soap suds occur when the wrong detergent is used. Soap suds or a dishwasher that is not level with the floor can trigger the leak sensor and cause the bE error code.
Action to take
- Make sure to use a detergent suitable for a dishwasher. If a specific detergent is required for your model, make sure to use it
- Check that the dishwasher is level
- Remove excessive soap suds by putting 4-7 ounces of milk into a shallow dishwasher-safe bowl. Place the bowl on the top rack and run the AUTO cycle
- Sprinkling salt or coffee creamer on soap suds can also remove them.
CE (also LE): Motor Error
A CE or LE error code is caused by an issue with the motor or the wiring between the control board and the motor. The motor assembly is usually attached to the circulation pump. Depending on the model, the dishwasher may have one or two pumps. Resetting the dishwasher may clear the error code.
Action to take
- Disconnect the power to the dishwasher
- Wait 1 minute, then reconnect the power
- If the error code remains, disassemble the dishwasher to access the motor and its wiring to the control board
- Check that nothing is impeding the pump impellers
- Remove the motor and test its resistance with a multimeter (see the tech sheet for instructions)
- Check the wiring between the motor and control board.
CL: Child Lock
If the dishwasher is displaying CL, it is not an error code, it means that the child lock has been activated. Check the dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions to disable it on your model.
CR: Test Mode
CR is not an error code, it means that the dishwasher is in test mode. Disconnecting the power for 1-2 minutes should take the dishwasher out of test mode.
Error Code E1
See error code AE above.
Error Code FE: Fill Error
The FE error code means the dishwasher has detected that there is too much water in the unit. Resetting the dishwasher may resolve the error code. If the error code remains, the water inlet valve may be defective, or there may be a control board issue. Control board issues require a technician to diagnose the issue.
Action to take
- Disconnect the power to the dishwasher for 1 minute
- Check if the dishwasher is still filling with water. If it is still filling, the water inlet valve is faulty and needs to be replaced
- Reconnect the power. If the error code remains, contact a technician to check the dishwasher’s control board.
Error Code HE: Heating Error
The HE error code occurs if the dishwasher is unable to heat the water, or the temperature has exceeded 149 degrees Fahrenheit. Disconnecting the power may resolve the error code. Otherwise, the heating element, thermistor, temperature sensor, or a stuck heater relay on the control board may be causing the issue.
Action to take
- Disconnect the power for 1 minute
- Reconnect the power. If the error code remains, move on to the next step
- Check the water temperature in the dishwasher. If it exceeds 149 degrees Fahrenheit, contact a technician to check the heater relay on the control board
- Check the heating element, thermistor, and temperature sensor for damage or an electrical fault.
Error Code IE: Water Fill Issue
The IE error code is caused by the level of water in the dishwasher not getting high enough after ten minutes.
Action to take
- Make sure the water supply to the dishwasher is turned on
- Make sure the water line is not kinked
- Make sure the water line water pressure is between 20 and 120 PSI
- Make sure the drain hose outlet is below the dishwasher base
- Make sure the drain hose is installed in a high-loop according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (see dishwasher manual)
- If the issue remains, replace the water inlet valve
- If the issue remains, contact a technician to check the control board.
Error Code LE
See error code CE above.
Error Code nE: Vario Motor Error
The nE error code is often a control board issue or a Vario motor issue that requires a trained technician.
Action to take
- Disconnect the power for 1 minute to see if it resolves the issue
- Check the wiring between the Vario motor and the control board
- Contact a trained technician to check the control board and the Vario motor for faults.
Error Code OE: Drainage Issue
The OE error code indicates that a blockage is stopping the dishwasher from draining or that the drain pump is defective.
Action to take
- Clean out the filter in the sump
- Check the drain hose for blockages
- Check the air gap or garbage disposal for a blockage
- Check that the drain pump is not clogged or defective.
Error Code PF: Power Failure
A PF error code can be caused by a power cut or power surge, or an issue with the circuit breaker.
Action to take
- Press any key on the control panel and wait 10 seconds to see if the error code clears
- If the error code remains, disconnect the power to the dishwasher for 5 minutes
- If the error code remains, make sure the dishwasher has a dedicated circuit breaker at 120v, 60Hz, AC only, with a minimum of 15 amps.
Error Code tE: Thermal Error
The tE error code occurs when the water temperature rises above 194 degrees Fahrenheit or there is an issue with the thermistor or temperature sensor.
Action to take
- Replace the thermistor or temperature sensor.
