Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker before reaching into the dishwasher tub.
- Remove both racks and the spray arms (twist counterclockwise to remove).
- Remove the filter assembly at the base of the tub.
- Inspect the sump area beneath the filter for hard objects — remove any debris by hand or with needle-nose pliers.
- Attempt to rotate the impeller by hand through the filter opening — it should turn freely with slight resistance.
- Reinstall the filter and spray arms, restore power, and run a short cycle.
- If LE/CE returns after clearing the impeller area, reset by disconnecting power for 5 minutes, then retry.
- If LE/CE persists, the motor requires professional diagnosis — do not continue running the dishwasher.
If the airflow problem comes back
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- LE/CE persists after clearing the impeller area and a 5-minute power reset
- Impeller does not rotate freely — motor may be seized
What This Error Means
Error LE on your LG dishwasher means: The dishwasher's wash motor (circulation pump) has encountered a fault. The motor is not reaching the expected speed or is drawing abnormal current. The CE variant indicates the same fault on some LG model ranges. Also displayed as CE on some LG models. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is foreign object (broken glass, bone fragment, fruit pit) lodged in the pump impeller — prevents the motor from spinning freely. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most LG dishwasher errors are resolved without a service call.
Many cases of LE can be resolved by the homeowner. The steps below cover the full DIY checks — if they do not resolve the error, a technician is needed.
Electronic and motor faults require professional diagnosis. A 5-minute power reset resolves transient faults. If the code returns after a reset, the physical component has failed and will not recover without replacement.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The LG dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Foreign object (broken glass, bone fragment, fruit pit) lodged in the pump impeller — prevents the motor from spinning freely
Check first: SAFETY: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker before reaching into the dishwasher tub.
Common Causes
- Foreign object (broken glass, bone fragment, fruit pit) lodged in the pump impeller — prevents the motor from spinning freely
- Pump impeller seized from prolonged mineral scale build-up
- Wash motor winding failure — motor is electrically open or shorted
- Wiring harness fault between the motor and the main control board
- Overheated motor after running extended cycles on a heavily soiled load
What Not to Do
- Do not continue running the dishwasher with LE/CE active — a seized motor that is repeatedly energised will burn out permanently
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- LG dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
- Some models may display the same fault as LE, CE.
Display and panel differences
- Some control panels show this issue as LE, CE instead of only LE.
- Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
LG service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any LG dishwasher parts.
Common parts
- Wash motor/circulation pump assembly if motor has failed ($60–$150)
- Wiring harness if connector or wire is damaged ($20–$50)
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
LE/CE persists after clearing the impeller area and a 5-minute power reset
- Impeller does not rotate freely — motor may be seized
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Remove spray arms and check the impeller area when cleaning the filter — small fragments not caught by the filter can reach the pump
- Pre-rinse heavily soiled dishes to reduce the volume of food solids entering the pump system
Related Error Codes
nE
The vario motor that controls which spray arm zone is active (lower, middle, or upper) has stopped responding correctly. LG's Vario system directs water pressure to different rack zones; without it, wash performance degrades and the machine stops.
OE
LG dishwasher error OE usually means the machine cannot drain water from the tub within the expected time.
Extra notes
- This page is based on LG support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on LG support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
Model coverage note: LG dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.