How to Fix the LG Washing Machine LE Error Code

Introduction

If your LG (or LG-built Kenmore) washing machine shows the LE error code, makes a grinding or bumping noise, and won’t spin properly, the washer is detecting a motor lock issue. This guide shows how to reset the control, check for physical obstructions, and diagnose and replace the rotor position sensor (RPS), which is a common cause of the LE code.

What you need

Step 1 Reset the washer to clear the LE code

Unplug the washing machine, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
Press and hold the power button for 5–10 seconds while the unit is unplugged.
Plug the washing machine back in, and confirm the LE code disappears.
Run a cycle to drain any water left in the drum.
Note: This reset can also fix the LE error by itself.

Step 2 Check for a drum obstruction

Open the door, and spin the drum by hand to check for abnormal noise or sudden stopping.
Note: If the drum stops abruptly or makes major noise, an internal obstruction may require tub disassembly, which isn’t shown in this video.

Step 3 Remove the rear access panel

Unplug the washing machine.
Move the washer to access the rear metal panel.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws from the rear panel.
Slide the rear panel off to expose the motor area.

Step 4 Remove the rotor bolt

Use a 17 mm socket wrench to turn the rotor bolt counterclockwise.
Hold the rotor in place so it doesn’t turn while you loosen the bolt.
Tap the socket wrench with a rubber hammer to help break the bolt loose if it’s tight.
Remove the rotor bolt fully once it’s loose.

Step 5 Remove the rotor

Pull the rotor straight off the shaft using equal pressure with both hands.
Caution: The rotor contains large magnets, so it can be difficult to remove.
Caution: Don’t pull from only one side, or you could damage the magnets.
Wiggle the rotor gently and evenly on both sides while pulling if needed.

Step 6 Inspect the rotor hub and magnets

Inspect the rotor hub threads for severe wear.
Note: Some models let you replace only the rotor hub using three screws.
Inspect the rotor magnets for smooth surfaces without wear, cracks, burning, damage, or obstructions.
Note: Damaged magnets can’t be replaced individually, so the rotor assembly would need replacement.

Step 7 Remove the stator and disconnect its wiring

Use a 10 mm socket wrench to remove the six long screws holding the stator.
Caution: Support the stator while removing the last screw, because it can fall.
Hold the stator with one hand, and disconnect the two wire harnesses.
Use a flat-bladed screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to press the clip sides if the connectors are stuck.

Step 8 Inspect the stator for damage

Inspect the stator magnet edges and the stator wiring for burn marks or damage.
Note: If the stator shows visible damage, it likely needs replacement, but replacement isn’t shown in this video.

Step 9 Remove the rotor position sensor

Locate the rotor position sensor on the inside of the stator ring.
Use a flat-bladed screwdriver to press in on the sensor’s retaining tab, and remove the sensor from the stator.
Note: The sensor is held by an inner retaining tab and three outer tabs.

Step 10 Test the rotor position sensor with a multimeter

Set a multimeter to resistance (ohms).
Note: If the multimeter isn’t self-ranging, set it to 20 kΩ.
Measure resistance between connector 5 and connector 1, and confirm the reading is 5–15 kΩ.
Measure resistance between connector 5 and connector 2, and confirm the reading matches and is 5–15 kΩ.
Note: A reading far outside this range indicates a bad sensor.

Step 11 Install the new rotor position sensor and check harnesses

Snap the new sensor onto the three outer pegs on the stator ring.
Snap the sensor onto the inner peg so it locks in place securely.
Inspect the stator wiring and harness connectors for frayed wires, damage, or separated connector wires.

Step 12 Reinstall the stator

Position the stator on the tub, and start two bolts by hand to hold it in place.
Thread the two bolts only partway so the stator can’t move.
Reconnect the two wire harnesses to the stator.
Note: The connectors only install one way.
Use a 10 mm socket wrench to install the other four bolts, and fully tighten all six bolts.

Step 13 Reinstall the rotor and secure the bolt

Align the rotor hub threads with the tub shaft, and set the rotor onto the stator.
Caution: The magnets can pull the rotor hard into place, so keep the rotor aligned as you seat it.
Press the rotor toward the tub if needed so the bolt can start threading into the shaft.
Apply five or six drops of blue threadlocker to the rotor bolt threads.
Use a 17 mm socket wrench to tighten the rotor bolt, then tap the wrench with a hammer a few times to ensure it’s tight.

Step 14 Reinstall the rear panel and test the washer

Slide the rear panel into place.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to install the four rear panel screws.
Move the washing machine back into place, plug it in, and confirm the hoses are connected.
Run a test cycle, and confirm the washer runs smoothly and spins properly without thunking noises.

Conclusion

If the LE code returns after replacing the rotor position sensor, re-check the drum for obstructions, inspect the stator and rotor magnets for damage, and inspect the stator wiring harnesses for frayed or broken wires, since the LE code can also be caused by mechanical blockage or electrical faults.