LG Washer Error Code FE Fix: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

November 30, 2025 Austin Jones Washer Error Codes

Introduction and what you will learn

Your LG washer just stopped mid cycle and the display shows FE, which feels urgent. Good news, FE usually flags a water related fault, and most causes are simple to find. This guide walks you through a practical lg washer error code fe fix, so you can get laundry moving again without guessing.

You will get a clear, step by step checklist. First, quick checks you can do now, for example unplugging the machine, clearing the drain filter, and re leveling the drum. Next, how to run a diagnostic and reset error codes. Finally, exact parts to inspect, when to replace a sensor or pump, and when to call a technician.

What the FE error code means

The FE code stands for a water overflow or overfill condition, it tells you the washer thinks there is too much water in the drum. On LG machines this comes from the water level sensor or pressure switch, which monitors how high the water rises.

You will see FE when actual overfilling happens, or when the sensor gets bad signals. Common causes include a kinked or clogged pressure hose, a faulty pressure switch, a stuck float, excessive suds from too much detergent, or a blocked drain that makes water back up.

For step by step fixes search lg washer error code fe fix and start with the pressure hose and suds check.

Safety first, what to do before you start

Always cut power first, unplug the washer or flip the circuit breaker. Turn off both hot and cold water valves, place a bucket and towels under hoses to catch leaks. Wear gloves and safety glasses, keep kids away. For an lg washer error code fe fix have on hand pliers, adjustable wrench, a multimeter, flashlight, and your model manual or smartphone.

Quick diagnostic checklist to try first

For an lg washer error code fe fix, try these quick checks first. They take five minutes and often resolve the issue without calling a technician.

  1. Power reset, unplug the machine for 1 minute then plug back in to clear transient faults.
  2. Drain standing water, run a drain or spin cycle and remove water from the tub.
  3. Clean the drain pump filter, remove lint and objects that block drainage.
  4. Check the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or incorrect height.
  5. Level the washer and redistribute an unbalanced load.
  6. Inspect around the base for leaks or water in the tub pan.

Step one, reset and basic reboot

Start by cutting power to the machine, either by unplugging the washer or switching off the circuit breaker. Wait at least one minute, up to five minutes for a full control board discharge. Plug the washer back in, close the door, then run a short Rinse and Spin or a Drain and Spin cycle with no clothes, using cold water and no detergent. That often clears stored faults and lets the water level and foam sensors recalibrate, which is why many lg washer error code fe fix guides begin with a simple reboot. If FE returns, move on to foam related checks and detergent adjustments.

Step two, check the door latch and switches

Unplug the washer before you start, then inspect the door lock and latch assembly visually and by feel. Look for cracked plastic, bent striker plates, or loose screws that prevent the door from seating properly. Close the door firmly, listen for a distinct click; no click often means a failed lock mechanism.

If you have a multimeter, remove the lock connector and check continuity while activating the washer’s diagnostic mode, or while a helper presses the door closed. No continuity or wildly fluctuating readings point to a bad door lock switch. Also check the wiring and pins for corrosion or burn marks; a frayed wire can cause intermittent FE triggers. Replace the latch or lock assembly if damaged.

Step three, inspect water supply and pressure

Start by shutting off both hot and cold water valves behind the washer, then unscrew the inlet hoses. Inspect for kinks, soft spots, or bulges, and replace any hose older than five years. Remove the small mesh filters inside the washer inlet, rinse them under running water, and scrub with an old toothbrush if clogged with sediment.

Reconnect hoses hand tight, open the valves fully, then run a quick fill cycle. If filling is slow, measure household water pressure with a gauge at a nearby faucet, you want at least 20 psi for reliable filling. Low city pressure or a partially closed shutoff can trigger the lg washer error code fe fix process, so call a plumber if pressure is consistently low.

Step four, test the water level pressure switch and hose

The pressure switch senses trapped air in a small hose, so as water rises it compresses air, the switch closes, and the control board knows the tub is filling. On most LG washers the hose runs from the tub to a small plastic sensor behind the control panel.

First inspect the hose for kinks, lint buildup, or cracks, remove the clamp and visually check inside with a flashlight. Blow through the hose; air should pass freely. If it is clogged, clean with a thin brush or replace the tube.

To test the pressure switch, unplug the washer, disconnect the harness, set a multimeter to continuity or low ohms, probe the common and level terminals. No air should read open, blowing into the hose should produce continuity. No change means replace the switch to complete your lg washer error code fe fix.

Step five, clean the drain pump and filter

A clogged drain pump or filter can cause the washer to think it is still filling, which triggers the FE code. Sensors read water level and pressure, and blocked flow confuses those readings. Follow this step by step cleaning guide.

  1. Unplug the washer, turn off the water, place towels and a shallow pan under the access panel.
  2. Open the front lower panel or back access, slowly open the filter cap to drain residual water.
  3. Remove debris with tweezers or needle nose pliers, rinse the filter and housing under running water.
  4. Check the pump impeller for hair, coins, or shredded fabric, spin it by hand.

Signs of pump failure include loud grinding noises, no drainage, leaks, or the FE error persisting after cleaning. Replace the pump if the impeller is broken or the motor smells burned.

Run a test cycle and confirm the fix

Put the washer in a spin or diagnostic cycle, using the factory test procedure in your manual if available. If you do not have the manual, run a quick spin with a small, balanced load, for example two bath towels placed opposite each other. Watch for normal water drainage, steady drum rotation, and no excessive vibration. If the FE error clears and stays off through two full cycles, the lg washer error code fe fix worked. If the code returns, repeat checks on drain hose, pump filter, and motor connections, then try a full service diagnostic.

When to call a professional or replace parts

If the FE error persists after you clean the pressure hose, reset the machine, and verify the drain pump, it is time to call a technician. Call sooner if you see active leaking, error codes return instantly, or you are uncomfortable working with wiring or water valves. Common parts replaced for an lg washer error code fe fix include:

Pressure sensor or water level switch, parts $50 to $150.
Drain pump, parts $80 to $150.
Water inlet valve, parts $50 to $120.
Main control board, parts $200 to $450.

Expect labor of $80 to $200. If repair costs approach half the price of a new washer, replacement often makes more sense.

Prevention tips to avoid future FE errors

Start with simple habits that prevent FE errors. Empty pockets before every wash, avoid overloading with towels or bulky blankets, and run a spin only cycle after a large load to confirm drainage. Clean the drain pump filter every month, remove lint and coins, and flush the drain hose to clear blockages. Keep the drain hose straight, not kinked, and ensure its height meets the manual specs.

For an easy lg washer error code fe fix, use low sudsing detergent and run a monthly tub clean to prevent residue buildup.

Conclusion and final troubleshooting checklist

Keep safety first. Start with power reset, level machine, check drain hose and filter, test door latch. For lg washer error code fe fix: unplug, document errors, try fixes stepwise.