Fault code guide

LG washing machine error codes

LG washing machines use short two- or three-letter codes. Several, such as CL and tcL, aren’t faults at all, and plenty of others clear with a quick check. Each one is explained below.

Checked against LG’s own guidance, October 2026

Before you check anything: switch the appliance off at the wall first. Never remove covers or panels from a machine that’s plugged in. If you smell burning, see scorching or the appliance trips your electrics, leave it switched off and get it looked at.

LG washing machines and washer dryers

What each code means

Some LG models show a number instead of letters for the same fault; LG lists these alongside, for example OE also appears as E03 or E21 on some machines.

How to clean a washing machine pump filter
  1. OEE03E21 The machine couldn’t drain the water within the expected time.

    Try this first
    • Check the drain hose behind the machine isn’t kinked or blocked.
    • Switch off at the wall and clean the drain pump filter behind the small hatch at the bottom front. Have towels ready.
    • Check the standpipe or sink waste the hose drains into isn’t blocked.

    If the filter and hose are clear and the pump doesn’t hum on a spin-only programme, the drain pump has usually failed.

  2. IEE02E10 The drum isn’t filling to the right level.

    Try this first
    • Check the water taps are fully open.
    • Make sure the inlet hoses aren’t kinked or squashed.
    • Turn off the tap and clean the mesh filters where the hoses connect.

    If water is reaching the machine but it still won’t fill, the inlet valve or pressure sensor needs testing.

  3. UE The load is unbalanced, so the machine limits the spin.

    Try this first
    • Redistribute the laundry evenly.
    • Avoid washing one heavy item on its own.
    • Check the machine is level on a firm floor.

    If even, mixed loads keep triggering it, the suspension needs checking.

  4. dEdE1dE2E01E30 The door isn’t closed or locking properly.

    Try this first
    • Open the door and close it firmly.
    • Check nothing is caught in the door seal, then restart.

    If the code returns with the door properly shut, the door lock usually needs replacing.

  5. LE The motor is locked and the drum can’t turn.

    Try this first
    • Reduce the load if the drum is packed full.
    • Check nothing is jammed between the drum and the door seal.

    If the drum is free and it still won’t turn, the motor or its sensor needs testing.

  6. FEE04E12 The machine has overfilled with water.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off and check the detergent drawer isn’t filling with water from somewhere it shouldn’t.

    An overfill usually means the inlet valve isn’t shutting off. That needs an engineer.

  7. PEE33 The water level sensor isn’t working correctly.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Unplug the machine for 10 seconds, then restart.

    If it returns, the pressure sensor or its hose needs checking.

  8. tE A heating error.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Unplug for 10 seconds, then restart.

    If it comes back, the heating circuit needs testing.

  9. HE A temporary heater error.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off, wait 10 seconds and restart.

    If it keeps appearing, the heater or its wiring needs testing.

  10. dHE A drying error on washer dryers.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off, wait 10 seconds and restart.

    If drying still fails, the dryer heater, fan or sensors need testing.

  11. CE Over-current: the machine has detected a power surge or short circuit.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Unplug for 10 seconds, then restart.

    If you see it again, don’t keep resetting it. Leave it unplugged and have the electrics tested.

  12. AE A leak has been detected.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off and check the inlet hoses for damage or loose connections.

    If the hoses are fine, the leak is inside the machine and needs tracing.

  13. Sud Too many suds in the drum.

    Try this first
    • Use less detergent, and only detergent made for front-loading machines.
    • Run a tub clean programme.

    No repair is needed if it stops with less detergent.

  14. FF Water in the machine or drain hose has frozen.

    Try this first
    • Thaw the drum and drain hose with warm (not boiling) water.
    • In an unheated garage or outbuilding, keep the space above freezing in winter.

    If it won’t restart once thawed, check for a split hose before running it.

  15. PF The power was interrupted during a cycle.

    Not a fault
    • Restart the programme.

    Only a concern if it happens without an actual power cut.

  16. CL Child lock is on.

    Not a fault
    • Press and hold the child lock button for 3 seconds to turn it off.

    This isn’t a fault.

  17. tcL A reminder to run the tub clean programme.

    Not a fault
    • Run Tub Clean with an empty drum and a washing machine cleaner.

    This isn’t a fault.

Code still showing? Washing machine repairs across West London, £40 call-out including diagnosis.
Sources

Where this information comes from

Every code on this page has been checked against LG’s own support guidance. Codes can differ between models and years, so your manual has the final word. LDN Appliance Care is independent and not affiliated with LG.

Not sure?

Send us the code

Message us a photo of the display and the model number (usually on a label inside the door or around the door rim) and we’ll tell you what it points to and whether it’s likely to be worth repairing.

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