ApplianceErrors.com

LG Dishwasher Error Code CE

Reviewed by the ApplianceErrors Editorial Team · Verified against manufacturer service documentation · Last verified: June 10, 2026
⚠ High Severity 🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY

Motor/pump over-current error

The most common cause of the CE error on a LG dishwasher is pump impeller jammed by debris (~55% of cases); start with: check pump for debris.

💰 DIY cost: $0–$240 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $250–$480 Save $250+ by doing it yourself
LG Dishwasher error code CE on the display panel
How the CE code appears on a LG dishwasher display

What Does Error Code CE Mean on a LG Dishwasher?

Motor/pump over-current error.

CE indicates the control board has sensed the circulation pump motor drawing current beyond its safe threshold and cut power to protect the motor and electronics. It typically fires when the impeller is physically obstructed or when a motor winding shorts and overloads. Unlike OE, which points to a drainage or water-level problem, CE is strictly an over-current condition on the wash pump itself. The cycle halts with dishes left unwashed until the fault clears.

Models affected: LG dishwashers with an inverter-driven circulation pump, including models such as LDFN4542S, LDTS5552S, and LDF5545ST, plus most similar LG front-control units
What owners report: Owners commonly report CE appearing mid-cycle, often after a piece of glass, a fruit seed, or a shard of debris works into the pump area. Many find that clearing the filter and impeller then power-cycling at the breaker resolves it; if the code returns immediately, a failing pump or board relay is more likely.

What Causes Error Code CE?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Pump impeller jammed by debris 55% of cases
  2. 2
    Pump motor winding failure 30% of cases
  3. 3
    Control board motor relay failure 15% of cases

How to Fix LG Dishwasher Error Code CE

🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY Est. time: 1–3 hours
⚡ Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Check pump for debris

    Remove filter and clear impeller area.

    ⚠️ Use gloves.
  2. 2

    Power cycle

    Unplug 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Replace circulation pump

    If motor failed.

    🔩 LG dishwasher pump ($100–$240)

How to Reset Error Code CE

LG dishwashers are usually hardwired — turn off the breaker for 60 seconds instead of unplugging. After clearing any debris from the pump, restore power and run a short cycle to confirm CE is gone.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

Full LG dishwasher reset guide → Enter diagnostic mode →

Did this guide fix your appliance?

When to Call a Professional

If pump replaced and CE persists, control board motor relay failed.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $250–$480

Related Error Codes

OE
Drain error — dishwasher not draining
⚠ High Severity

Same Code on Other Brands

Error code CE appears on these other brands too. See every brand that shows CE →

Samsung logo
Samsung Washing Machine CE
Over-current motor protection — motor drawing excessive current

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your LG Dishwasher:

🔩
Search PartSelect
LG Dishwasher repair parts
🔧
Search RepairClinic
Step-by-step video guides

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

More LG Dishwasher Error Codes

AE Leakage detected — water found in base tray IE Water inlet error — not filling with water FE Water overflow — overfill protection triggered HE Heater failure — water not heating tE Temperature sensor failure LE Leakage detected — flood protection activated

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep using my LG Dishwasher when error CE appears? +
It is not advisable. The dishwasher may still power on, but running it while CE is active can worsen the motor fault or damage related parts. Treat it as a soon-as-possible repair.
What most commonly causes CE on a LG Dishwasher? +
Across reported LG dishwasher repairs, the most frequent is pump impeller jammed by debris (55% of cases), pump motor winding failure (30%), then control board motor relay failure (15%). Check them in that order before replacing any parts.
CE keeps coming back after a reset — what should I check next? +
A reset only clears the stored CE fault; if it returns, the motor problem is still present. Move on to the physical checks — check pump for debris, then power cycle — since the code will reappear until the root cause is resolved. This is an advanced repair involving deeper disassembly or electrical testing.
How much does it cost to fix LG Dishwasher error CE? +
A DIY repair typically runs $0–$240 in parts, versus $250–$480 for a professional service call, so handling it yourself saves around $250. Expect the work to take 1–3 hours.
Which LG Dishwasher models show error CE? +
CE is documented on LG dishwashers with an inverter-driven circulation pump, including models such as LDFN4542S, LDTS5552S, and LDF5545ST, plus most similar LG front-control units. Other units sharing the same control platform can display it too, so the fixes here generally transfer across the series.

Sources & References

Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 10, 2026.

← All LG Dishwasher Error Codes ← All LG Error Codes