FixByModel
LE

LG LE: Motor error — wash motor cannot operate

The control board detected that the wash (circulation) motor is not running as expected. Causes range from a jammed impeller to a failed motor or control board.

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Foreign object (glass, seed, bone, plastic) jamming the wash-pump impeller
  2. Loose or damaged motor wiring/harness connection
  3. Stuck or locked motor rotor
  4. Faulty control board (PCB/ECU)
  5. Failed wash motor
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Power resetUnplug the dishwasher or switch off its breaker for 10-15 minutes to let the control board reset.
2Clear blockagesRemove the lower rack and filter assembly and check the sump for debris that could jam the wash-pump impeller.
3Inspect wiringWith power disconnected, check the motor's wiring connections for loose or corroded terminals and reseat them.
4Run a test cycleRestore power and start a short cycle to see if the error clears.
5Call a technicianIf LE persists, the wash motor or control board may need replacement, which usually requires pulling the unit from the cabinet.

Still showing LE?

If you’ve worked through every step and LE keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

LG dishwashers. Most LG dishwashers; note the LE code means a motor fault on dishwashers, unlike some LG washers.

FAQ

What does LG LE mean?

Motor error — wash motor cannot operate. The control board detected that the wash (circulation) motor is not running as expected. Causes range from a jammed impeller to a failed motor or control board.

What causes LG LE?

The most likely cause is foreign object (glass, seed, bone, plastic) jamming the wash-pump impeller. Other causes include Loose or damaged motor wiring/harness connection; Stuck or locked motor rotor; Faulty control board (PCB/ECU); Failed wash motor.

Can I fix LG LE myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.