Error code · Washer

LG Top-Load Washer Code E3: Drain Motor

E3 on an LG top-load washer with an alphanumeric display points to a problem with the operation of the drain motor. Frozen water can cause it. The owner sees E3 and the washer stops because it…

Medium · inspection needed

(713) 597-5662

Code: E3
Appliance: Washer
Brand: LG
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What E3 means

E3 on an LG top-load washer with an alphanumeric display points to a problem with the operation of the drain motor. Frozen water can cause it. The owner sees E3 and the washer stops because it cannot confirm that the drain motor is working, so water may stay in the tub. The washer will not finish a normal wash and rinse until the drain system responds, which is why the owner usually finds the load left soaking.

Common causes of E3

Frozen water in the drain path
Drain motor not operating as the control expects
Repeated drain motor problem that needs a closer look

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Unplug the washer and plug it back in. 2. If the washer sits in a cold space, thaw it before trying again. 3. Check that the drain hose is not kinked. 4. Restart a short cycle and watch whether E3 returns. 5. Request service if it repeats.

! Why to stop there

A repeating E3 leaves open whether the drain motor, its wiring, or the control is responsible.
We test the drain system and tell you the finding and the price before we replace anything.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

dE3 (dO)LG Mini Washer Code dE3 (dO): Inner Cover Open dE4LG Mini Washer Code dE4: Drawer Lock Trouble UELG Washer Code UE: Unbalanced Load vS, uSLG Washer Code vS, uS: Vibration Sensor dE1LG Mini Washer Code dE1: Drawer Not Closed LE, LE1LG Washer Code LE, LE1: Drum Will Not Spin nCLG Front-Load Washer Code nC: NFC Link nELG Front-Load Washer Code nE: Wi-Fi Link

E3E3 questions

Can cold weather cause E3?

Yes, frozen water is one known cause. If the washer is in an unheated room, thaw it fully before another try. Ice can sit in the drain hose or pump area and keep the motor from turning, so the first fix is warmth.

Will unplugging the washer fix E3?

It can clear a one-time error. If E3 comes back, the drain motor needs a proper inspection. A reset of power is a reasonable first step, but a code that returns is the washer telling you something is still wrong.

Is there water left in the tub with E3?

Often yes, because the washer could not drain. Do not force the lid open on a full tub. We can help if it stays full. Opening the lid is usually safe, but bailing or forcing anything is not. Call us and we will drain and test it.

Book a visit

Still seeing E3?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 597-5662