LG Dishwasher Error Codes Explained

LG dishwashers display error codes on the control panel when the system detects operational problems. This guide explains the most common error codes, their causes, and detailed step-by-step instructions for resolving them.

How LG Dishwasher Error Codes Work

LG uses a two-letter error code system that’s relatively intuitive once you understand the pattern:

• First letter: Usually indicates the affected system or component
• Second letter: Typically “E” for Error

Common first letters:

• O = Out/Drain
• I = In/Inlet
• A = Aqua/Leak
• H = Heat
• t = Temperature
• n = Motor
• F = Overflow
• b = Button/Control

The codes display on the control panel and the dishwasher typically beeps to alert you to the error.

Model Coverage

This guide covers commonly reported error codes for:

• LG front-control dishwashers: LDF5545, LDF7774, LDF8764 series (2016-2024)
• LG top-control dishwashers: LDT5678, LDT7808 series (2016-2024)
• LG QuadWash models across various series (2018-2024)

Error code meanings may vary by model year. Always verify using LG’s support website or your owner’s manual.

Error Code Reference Table

Code	Meaning	Severity	Quick Action
OE	Drain error	Medium	Clean filter, check drain hose
IE	Water inlet error	Medium	Check water supply valve, inlet hose
AE	Leak detected	High	Check for leaks, inspect door seal
FE	Overflow/fill error	High	Water inlet valve issue
HE	Heater error	Medium	Heating element or sensor problem
tE	Thermistor error	Medium	Temperature sensor malfunction
nE	Motor error	High	Wash motor or wiring issue
LE	Motor locked	High	Motor or impeller blocked
PF	Power failure	Low	Power was interrupted, restart cycle
CL	Child lock active	Low	Deactivate child lock
bE	Button error	Medium	Control panel issue
E1	Leak in base	High	Active leak detected

Common Error Codes: Detailed Troubleshooting

OE - Drain Error

What it means: The dishwasher cannot drain water after the wash cycle. Water remains in the tub.

Common causes:

• Clogged drain filter (most common)
• Kinked or blocked drain hose
• Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed
• Clogged air gap (if installed)
• Drain pump failure

Step-by-step fix:

1. Cancel the cycle and wait for the dishwasher to unlock
2. Open the door carefully—water may be standing in the tub
3. Remove the bottom rack to access the filter assembly
4. Lift out the cylindrical filter and flat filter screen
5. Clean both filters under running water, using a soft brush to remove debris
6. Check the sump area (where the filter sits) for glass, food, or debris
7. Reinstall filters—ensure they’re seated properly and locked
8. Pull the dishwasher out slightly to inspect the drain hose
9. Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked and has no blockages
10. If connected to a garbage disposal, verify the knockout plug was removed during installation
11. Run a rinse cycle to test drainage

Tools needed: Soft brush, towels, possibly a flashlight

Safety note: Always unplug or turn off the breaker before pulling the dishwasher out or accessing components behind it.

When to call a tech: If filters are clean, drain hose is clear, and the disposal knockout is removed, the drain pump may have failed. A clicking sound without water movement indicates a blocked pump; silence indicates the pump motor may be dead.

IE - Water Inlet Error

What it means: The dishwasher isn’t receiving adequate water within the fill time limit.

Common causes:

• Water supply valve turned off
• Kinked inlet hose
• Clogged inlet filter screen
• Low water pressure
• Faulty water inlet valve

Step-by-step fix:

1. Cancel the cycle and turn off the dishwasher
2. Locate the water supply valve under the sink (usually on the left side)
3. Verify the valve is fully open (turn counterclockwise)
4. Check the inlet hose connection for kinks
5. Turn off the water supply valve
6. Disconnect the inlet hose from the valve (have towels ready)
7. Inspect the small mesh filter screen inside the hose connection
8. Clean the screen with a soft brush or toothpick
9. Reconnect the hose and open the valve
10. Run a test cycle

Tools needed: Adjustable pliers, soft brush, towels

Safety note: Turn off water supply before disconnecting any hoses. Have towels ready for water that may drain from the hose.

When to call a tech: If the water supply is good, hoses are clear, and filters are clean, the water inlet valve (solenoid) may have failed. This part controls water flow into the dishwasher and requires replacement if faulty.

AE - Leak Detected (Aqua Stop)

What it means: The leak sensor in the base of the dishwasher has detected water where it shouldn’t be.

Common causes:

• Door seal leak
• Loose or damaged hose connection inside the unit
• Crack in the tub
• Overfilling due to inlet valve failure
• Detergent overuse causing excessive suds

Step-by-step fix:

1. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it
2. Place towels around the base of the dishwasher
3. Open the door and inspect the door gasket for damage, debris, or wear
4. Clean the door gasket with a damp cloth
5. Check for any obvious water on the floor in front or beside the unit
6. If safe to do so, carefully tilt the dishwasher back slightly to drain water from the base pan
7. Allow the base to dry completely before testing
8. Reduce detergent amount if using too much (excessive suds can trigger leaks)
9. Run a test cycle and watch for leaks around the door

Tools needed: Towels, flashlight

Safety note: Water and electricity are dangerous together. Always unplug before accessing anything inside or beneath the dishwasher. If you see water actively pooling, do not reach into standing water.

When to call a tech: If no external leak is visible, the leak may be internal (pump seal, spray arm connection, tub crack). Internal leaks require professional diagnosis and repair. AE codes that persist after drying often indicate ongoing leaks.

FE - Fill/Overflow Error

What it means: The dishwasher has detected too much water—more than should be present during normal operation.

Common causes:

• Water inlet valve stuck open
• Drain backing up water into the unit
• Sensor malfunction

Step-by-step fix:

1. Immediately turn off the dishwasher
2. Turn off the water supply valve under the sink
3. If water is overflowing, focus on containing it with towels
4. Once water stops, open the door carefully
5. Scoop or siphon excess water if needed
6. Check that the drain hose isn’t positioned higher than the unit (can cause siphoning)
7. Unplug the dishwasher for 10 minutes to reset
8. Turn water back on and run a short cycle, watching for overflow

Tools needed: Towels, possibly a wet/dry vacuum, bucket

Safety note: If water is actively overflowing, prioritize shutting off the water supply valve before anything else. Don’t reach into standing water near electrical components.

When to call a tech: FE errors that recur indicate the water inlet valve is likely stuck in the open position or has a damaged solenoid. This requires replacement. A technician can also verify the water level sensor is functioning correctly.

HE - Heater Error

What it means: The dishwasher’s heating element isn’t working properly, or the temperature isn’t rising as expected.

Common causes:

• Failed heating element
• Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor
• Wiring issue
• Control board malfunction

Step-by-step fix:

1. Unplug the dishwasher for 5 minutes
2. Plug back in and run a hot water cycle
3. Before starting the cycle, run hot water at the kitchen sink until it’s hot—this ensures the dishwasher starts with warm water
4. Check if the cycle completes normally
5. Feel the door during the dry cycle—it should be warm (not cold)

Tools needed: None for basic troubleshooting

Safety note: The heating element operates at high temperatures. Never touch internal components immediately after a cycle.

When to call a tech: Heating element testing requires a multimeter and access to internal components. If running hot water to the sink first doesn’t help, the element, thermostat, or associated wiring likely needs professional diagnosis.

LE - Motor Locked Error

What it means: The wash motor cannot turn, possibly due to an obstruction or motor failure.

Common causes:

• Foreign object jamming the wash impeller
• Broken glass in the sump area
• Motor failure
• Seized pump

Step-by-step fix:

1. Turn off and unplug the dishwasher
2. Remove the bottom rack
3. Remove the spray arm by unscrewing or unclipping it
4. Remove the filter assembly
5. Look into the sump area for debris, broken glass, or foreign objects
6. Carefully remove any obstructions (use caution with glass)
7. Reinstall components in reverse order
8. Run a test cycle

Tools needed: Flashlight, possibly needle-nose pliers

Safety note: Broken glass can be present in the sump. Work carefully and consider wearing gloves.

When to call a tech: If no obstruction is found and the error persists, the wash motor or its capacitor may have failed. Motor replacement is a professional repair.

How to Reset Your LG Dishwasher

A power reset clears temporary errors and restores default operation:

1. Press the Power button to turn off the dishwasher
2. Unplug the dishwasher from the outlet (usually under the sink or behind the unit)
3. If hardwired, turn off the circuit breaker
4. Wait 5 full minutes
5. Restore power
6. Press Power to turn on
7. Select a cycle and run a test

For a more thorough reset, some LG models respond to holding specific button combinations. Consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.

Child Lock (CL) Reset

If “CL” displays and controls don’t respond:

1. Press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds
2. Or press and hold Rinse + Spray for 3 seconds (varies by model)
3. The lock icon should disappear, restoring normal function

When to Call a Professional

Contact LG support or a qualified technician if:

• The AE (leak) error persists after drying and inspection
• You see the FE (overflow) error with water actively spilling
• The nE or LE motor errors continue after clearing obstructions
• Error codes in the HE series appear (heating system repairs)
• You hear grinding, burning smells, or see sparking
• Water damage is visible under or around the dishwasher
• The dishwasher is under warranty

Cost-Benefit Consideration

Before paying for repairs, consider:

• Age of the dishwasher (10+ years is nearing end of life)
• Cost of repair vs. replacement
• Availability of parts for your model
• Warranty status

Sources

For official LG support and error code verification:

• LG Dishwasher Error Code List
• LG Dishwasher Error Codes
• LG US Support

Other LG Appliances

• LG Washing Machine Error Codes: Complete Guide
• LG Dryer Error Codes: Complete Guide
• LG Refrigerator Error Codes: Complete Guide

Related Guides

• OE Error: Drain Problems Solved
• IE Error: Water Inlet Troubleshooting
• AE Error: Leak Sensor Triggered
• Appliance Error Codes: Universal Guide
• Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes Decoded