How to Fix LG Washer LE Code

An LE error code on an LG washer refers to the motor being locked. The LE error code can sometimes be caused by a heavy or overloaded washing load. In other cases, the washer’s motor, rotor position sensor (RPS), or motor or RPS wiring may be damaged and defective. Although less likely, the spider support arm or rear bearing may also be defective. Follow the steps below to diagnose and fix the issue.

This guide applies to most LG front-load and direct-drive top-load washer models, such as the following:

WD14022D6, WD1208TC4W, WD1275TC5W, WD14030D6, WD14060D6, WV5-1408W, WD1207NCW, WM3400CW, WV5-1275W, WM3180CW, WT7100CW, WM3250HWA, WM3600HVA, WD-11275BD, WD-10271BD, WM2050CW

1. Check the load and reset the washer

If you have recently washed heavy items or overloaded the washer, it may have caused the LE error code. Overloading the washer with heavy items can also cause the motor, RPS, motor wiring, rear bearing, and spider support arm to fail.

Follow these steps to check and fix the issue:

1. Open the washer and remove some items to correct the weight or overloading issue. If the error code remains, move on to the next step.
2. Press Power to turn off the washer
3. Disconnect the washer from the power
4. Press and hold the Start/Pause button for five seconds
5. Reconnect the power to the washer
6. Turn the washer on.

If the LE error code remains or returns, a component is likely defective and needs to be replaced. The washer needs to be drained and emptied before moving on to the next step.

2. Check the spider support arm and rear bearing (front-load washers)

Although less likely, if the spider support arm or rear bearing is damaged, it could be causing the LE error code.

Follow these steps to check the spider support arm and rear bearing:

1. Open the washer and check for rubber debris caused by the drum rubbing against the gasket
2. Check that the spin basket is not loose or wobbling.

If the basket is secure and without debris inside, the spider support arm and rear bearing are not likely to be causing the LE error code issue.

If there is a problem with the support arm or rear bearing, it is best to contact a trained technician, as the repair requires dismantling the entire washer and some specialist tools.

3. Access the rotor and stator

The components that may be defective are all located around the rotor and stator. If you have a front-load washer, the washer’s rear access panel will need to be removed. If you have a top-load washer, the washer will need to be put on its back to access the stator and rotor underneath the washer.

Follow these steps to access the rotor and stator:

1. Unplug the washing machine
2. Turn off the water and disconnect the water inlet hoses to the washer
3. Unscrew the rear access panel screws, and remove the panel from the washer. If you have a top-load washer, carefully put the washer on its back. If there is an access panel underneath, remove it.

4. Remove the rotor and stator

Accessing the RPS (also called the hall sensor), motor, and wiring, requires the removal of the rotor. Be aware of the magnetic field when removing (and reinstalling) the rotor.

Follow these steps to remove the rotor and stator:

1. With a socket or adjustable wrench, remove the bolt securing the rotor to the tub shaft. You may need to use a hammer to loosen the bolt or a tool to hold the rotor while loosening the bolt with the socket.
2. Firmly grasp the rotor and remove it
3. Remove the screws that hold the motor wiring harness in place
4. Remove the screws that secure the stator. Hold the stator and be careful when removing the last screw, as you don’t want the stator to fall off.
5. Carefully, bring the stator down and disconnect the motor and RPS wiring harness
6. Check the stator and rotor for signs of damage, such as plastic shavings or stripping, which indicate that the component is damaged and defective. If either component is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

5. Check the RPS (hall sensor)

The RPS monitors the motor to make sure the washer is working properly, and operating safely.

The RPS can be tested with a multimeter to determine if it has failed. However, it is a relatively complicated process, so simply replacing the RPS is the recommended option. A replacement LG rotor position sensor usually costs around $20 to $30.

Follow these instructions to remove the RPS:

1. Locate the RPS on the stator.
2. Locate the tabs that secure the RPS and bend them slightly to remove the RPS.

A new RPS should be relatively easy to install by lining up the tabs and pushing down on the RPS. The RPS must be secured by its tabs on the inside and outside of the stator.

6. Check the RPS and stator wiring

Damaged wiring is often the cause of the LG washer LE error code. Damage to the wiring usually occurs because of the spin mode flexing the wires, especially when the load is unbalanced or overloaded. Water damage is another common reason for wiring damage. Before reassembling the washer, make sure water isn’t leaking onto the RPS.

The wiring should be protected in plastic, which needs to be removed to check the wiring. If a wire is broken or there are signs of burning, the wiring harness needs to be replaced. You may be able to repair or replace the individual wire; however, a new wiring harness usually costs less than $20.

If you have followed these steps, the LE error code should now be fixed. If the issue remains, contact a trained technician to further troubleshoot the problem. There may be an issue with the control board, or a bearing may need to be replaced.