Traditionally, LG direct drive washers are more efficient and stable and enjoy higher RPMs than their belt drive counterparts. That, nonetheless, doesn’t make them flawless, as you’ll discover from the LG direct drive washing machine problems that I’ll discuss.
Sometimes, an LG direct drive washing machine won’t turn on, open, fill up with water, spin, drain, heat water or take up fabric softener. At other times, it may vibrate or make noise when spinning.
But overall, most problem causes are DIY fixable, while only a few require an expert’s input. So, learning how to troubleshoot these issues is advisable, and that’s where this LG washer troubleshooting guide comes in.
I’ll explain the problems and fixes to get you started. But before we do, I’ll share how you can diagnose an issue with your LG washer to avoid calling an expert.
Additionally, I’ll outline the steps for resetting the washer since some problems are fixable by a reset.
Let’s get started!
In a hurry? See a troubleshooting guide for the most everyday LG direct drive washer problems below:
Quick LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Troubleshooting Guide
| – | Problem | Probable Cause | Recommended Fix |
| 1. | Washer Won’t Turn On | Power disruption, loose or damaged power plug, faulty socket, or bad power board | Reset the breaker if tripped and replace the thermal fuse if blown up. Plug in the power cable firmly and replace it if it’s faulty. Also, replace the socket or power board if faulty |
| 2. | Washer Won’t Open | Active door lock, high water temperature or faulty door lock or control module | Wait for the door lock to go off, adjust the water temperature and replace the door lock or control module if faulty |
| 3. | Washer Won’t Fill Up | Tap not fully opened, low water pressure, broken water level switch, kinked hose, blocked filter, or faulty intake valve | Open the water tap fully and adjust the water pressure. Replace the water-level switch if faulty, unwind a kinked hose, clean the dirty filter and change a malfunctioning intake valve |
| 4. | Washer Won’t Spin | Imbalanced load or washer, dirty lint filter, faulty door or failed motor rotor or control board | Balance the laundry and level the washer legs. Clean a dirty lint filter and replace a faulty door. Call an expert to fix a bad motor rotor or control board |
| 5. | Washer Won’t Drain | Clogged drain filter or impeller, kinked or incorrectly installed drain pipe, or failed drain pump | Clean the drain filter and impeller if dirt-clogged, unwind the drain pipe if kinked, and place it 34 – 96″ high. Replace the drain pump if it’s faulty |
| 6. | Washer Won’t Heat Water | Swapped or kinked hoses or water tap not fully opened | Ensure you connect the cold and hot water hoses correctly and remove any kinks. Also, ensure the tap is fully open |
| 7. | Washer Won’t Take Up Fabric Softener | Thicker consistency or clogged fabric conditioner slot | Dilute the fabric conditioner if it’s thick and clean its slot if it’s dirt clogged |
| 8. | Washer Vibration | Washer imbalance, loose shipping bolts, unsteady floor, or worn-out shock absorbers | Balance the washers feet on level ground, take out the shipping bolts and store them, and call an expert to replace the broken shock absorber |
| 9. | Washer Is Noisy When Spinning | Foreign objects in the drum, loose parts, washer or load imbalance, clogged tub, or faulty drain pump | Remove foreign objects in the drum, tighten loose parts and balance the washer and load. Also, unclog the tub and replace the drain pump if faulty |
Running Diagnosis On LG Direct Washer Using Smart Diagnosis
Thanks to LG’s SmartThinQ Smart Diagnosis feature, it’s now possible to identify a problem on your LG washing machine without calling a service technician.
It’s simple. You need to install the SmartThinQ app on your smartphone or tablet and then follow these steps:
- Launch SmartThinQ and click on Smart Diagnosis
- Turn your LG washing machine on
- Position your smartphone’s mouthpiece between the power switch and the intelligent diagnosis sign/logo
- Long press the ‘Temp’ switch until a countdown timer pops up on the washing machine
- Wait for the transmission and self-diagnose to complete, which should take about 10 seconds
- Take note of any error code or fault on the app
Remember, ThinQ also notifies you when your LG washer malfunctions, which means you get to attend to it quickly enough and prevent a huge problem. You can also use it on your LG AC, TV, and other home appliances.
Quick Guide on How to Reset LG Direct Drive Washing Machine?
Some issues on an LG direct drive are fixable with a reset, including most error codes. So, it may be wise to try resetting your washer before you can do the repairs and replacements. (expertseoinfo.com)
Here’s how to reset an LG direct drive washer:
Option 1 – Unclog the washing machine for at least 30 minutes and reconnect it to see if it’s working fine. Alternatively, turn off its power breaker for the same amount of time (30 minutes at least)
Option 2 – If you specifically want to clear an error code on a direct drive washer, consider resetting it this way:
- Unplug the washer or flip its breaker off
- Long press the ‘start/pause’ switch for 5 seconds
- Wait for the errors to clear
How to Troubleshoot Common LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Problems
Now, below are nine problems affecting LG direct drive washers that you can troubleshoot:
1. The LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Turning On
Your LG direct drive washer won’t turn on because of one of these issues:
- Power disruption – A blown-up fuse or a tripped-up circuit/power breaker will likely disrupt the power supply to the washer and prevent it from starting. So, reset the breaker if it’s tripped, and replace the fuse if blown-up.
- Loose or damaged power cable – If the power cable is wobbly or damaged, the washer won’t start. So, plug it in properly, and if it’s damaged, replace it.
- Faulty socket – Using a multimeter, probe into the socket to test its continuity. The absence of continuity shows that the socket is defective, and you should replace it.
- Bad power board – Lastly, if you cannot get the washer to turn on, the power or control board is likely bad. If so, you’ll need to replace it. You should, however, leave this part to an expert technician.
2. LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Opening (Door Won’t Unlock)
If your washer’s door won’t unlock after closing, it’s highly likely because of:
- Active ‘Door Lock’ – If the ‘Door Lock’ function is on, the washer won’t open until it goes off. So, wait for it to go off before opening the door.
- High water temperature – A high water temperature will prevent the door from opening. To fix it, run the spin/dry cycle and press start/pause.
- Faulty door lock – Sometimes, the door won’t open because its lock is defective. So, inspect it for damage or malfunctioning and replace it if that’s the case.
- Faulty control module – The last option if you can’t fix the door after the above consideration is replacing the control module. That is, however, an expert technician’s job.
How to Unlock LG Direct Drive Washing Machine?
Before you can replace anything, try unlocking your LG direct drive washer using these steps:
- Wait for the ‘Door Lock’ indicator to go off and manually open the door
- Press on/off to power the washer on
- Activate the washer drain and pace the wash cycle
- Wait for the washer to unlock automatically
3. The LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Filling with Water
Consider these issues if your LG washer won’t fill up with water:
- The tap might not be fully open – It’s straightforward; the washer won’t fill if the tap is shut. So, ensure you turn it on entirely.
- Low water pressure – A low water pressure prevents the water from filling the washer. Consider measuring it with a pressure gauge and increasing it if it’s lower than 20psi.
- Broken water-level switch – If the water level switch (or pressure switch) is broken, water won’t fill up the washer. So, inspect the switch for damage and replace it if that’s the case.
- Kinked hose – Kinks on the water pipe prevent water flow. So, check and remove any kinks/folds by straightening the tube.
- Blocked filter – Dirt easily blocks the inlet hose filter preventing the water from filling up the washer. Hence, inspect the filter and clean it if it’s dirty.
- Faulty intake valve – The last check is the water intake or inlet valve. If it’s defective (which you can tell if it won’t show continuity), replace it.
4. The LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Spinning (or LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Spin Cycle Problems)
While you expect your direct drive washer to start spinning as soon as you power it on and select a cycle, these issues may prevent it from doing so:
- Load imbalance – If the laundry is not even in the LG washer’s drum, the washer may not spin. Therefore, check the load and spread it evenly. Make it ¾ full but don’t overload it.
- Unbalanced washer – If your washer is resting on an uneven floor, it may not spin. To fix that, move the washer to the uniform ground and adjust its feet leveler.
- Dirty lint filter – Sometimes, the washer won’t spin due to a lint-clogged filter. You’ll need to clean the filter if that’s the case.
- Faulty door – If the washer interprets the door as defective, perhaps for failing to close properly, it may stop spinning. So, you need to inspect the door for clothes obstruction and replace the door lock if it’s faulty.
- Failed motor rotor or control board – If you cannot get the washer to spin after the above considerations, replace the motor rotor or control board.
5. LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Draining
In most cases, an LG Direct drive washer won’t drain because of any of these issues:
- Clogged drain filter or impeller – A dirt-clogged drain filter or impeller directly interferes with the drainage. So, to fix them, clean them.
- Kinked or incorrectly positioned drain pipe – Ensure there are no kinks as they slow down the drainage. In the meantime, ensure the drain pipe height is about 34 – 96″. Anything outside that can prevent drainage.
- Failed drain pump – If you still can’t get your LG washer to drain, consider inspecting the drain pump for fault and replacing it if that’s the case.
6. The LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Heating Water
If the water is not getting hot, it’s highly likely because of one of these problems:
- Swapped hoses – Check the water inlet pipes to ensure they aren’t switched. If they are, you’ve to disconnect and fix them correctly.
- Kinked hose – Check for possible kinks on the water hose and straighten them out to allow water to get to the heater.
- The water tap is not fully open – There is also the chance that the water tap is not turned on completely. If so, you should open it fully.
7. The LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Not Taking Fabric Conditioner
Two issues could prevent the washing machine from taking up fabric conditioner, thicker consistency and dirt clogging. If the fabric conditioner slot is dirt blocked, it’ll be hard to dispense the conditioner.
Fix
Dilute the fabric conditioner to reduce its consistency if it’s too thick. And if the fabric conditioner slot is too dirty, clean it.
8. LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Vibration Problems
The washing machine may vibrate when spinning due to any of these reasons:
- Washer imbalance – If the washer is overloaded or its load is uneven, it may vibrate when spinning. Thus, check the laundry load and spread it evenly.
- Loose shipping bolts – If you haven’t removed the shipping bolts from the washer, it’s time you do so and store them until you are ready to transport the washer.
- Unsteady floor – If the surface the washer is resting on is unstable, the washer will shake when spinning. So, ensure the washer is resting on a firm, even floor.
- Worn out shock absorbers – If none of the above issues is causing the vibration, consider replacing the shock absorbers. They could be dead and defective, thus unable to absorb vibrations.
9. LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Making Noise When Spinning
Lastly, if the LG washer is noisy when spinning, consider these possibilities:
- Foreign objects in the drum – Loose objects like broken zippers, pins, coins, and buttons could cause the washer to make noise when spinning. So, inspect the drum and remove them.
- Loose or broken parts – Also, inspect the washer for any loose or damaged parts and fix them.
- Washer imbalance – Check the load and spinning. Do not overload the washer to stop a thumping/banging sound.
- Clogged tub – Inspect the tub for clogging and clean it. The washer could make noise because it cannot spin or drain properly.
- Faulty drain pump – The last check is the drain pump. The noise could originate from it, and if so, replace it.
Other LG Direct Drive Washer Problems
LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Motor Problems
Generally, you can tell that your LG direct drive washing machine motor has an issue if you cannot fix any of these issues using the tips shared earlier:
- Spinning problem (washer won’t spin)
- Draining problems
- Spin-drying problems (wet clothes)
- Agitation problems
Fix
Once you establish the motor is faulty, consider replacing it. If you aren’t sure about it, talk to an expert service technician.
LG Direct Drive Washing Machine Error Codes
Now, let’s discuss the error codes you can use to determine the exact issue affecting your washer. Below is a summary of the top 10 error codes, their interpretation, and remedies:
| Error Code | Interpretation | Quick Remedy |
| CL | Child Lock | Long press the ‘Child Lock’ switch for 3 seconds |
| PF | Power failure | Restart the washer |
| PE | Faulty water sensor | Replace the faulty sensor |
| LE | Motor overload | Turn off the washer for 30 minutes to cool the motor |
| IE | Low water supply | Increase water pressure and fully open the tap |
| dE | Open door | Remove obstructions clothes and try closing the door |
| AE | Water leak | Seal up the leaky hose |
| FE | overfilling | Replace the water intake/inlet valve |
| OE | Draining problem | Unclog the drain filter, kinked hose, and dirty pump |
| UE | Unbalanced load | Recognize and evenly spread the laundry load |
Were the videos helpful in completing the repair?
Yes, the videos provided were undeniably helpful in ensuring the successful completion of the repair. They were not only well-executed, but also played a crucial role in guiding us through the process. Although we encountered some minor variations in our machine, the videos still enabled us to find effective workarounds and overcome any challenges that arose. Without the valuable assistance provided by these videos, it would have been significantly more challenging to accomplish the repair task at hand.
What was the cause of the washer’s problem according to another user’s story?
According to a fellow user’s account, the cause of the washer’s problem was attributed to the bearings failing, which is reportedly a common issue for LG washers after approximately 7 years of usage.
How long did the repair take?
The repair process took approximately a week, including the time required for dismantling the washer and ordering the necessary parts. Initially, it was necessary to disassemble the washer and determine if the inner tub could be separated from the rear outer tub. Once this was confirmed, the old seals and bearings were carefully removed. This step allowed for the reuse of the inner tub and potentially the spider, if undamaged. Afterward, the new parts were ordered and installed, completing the repair. Overall, despite the time invested in the repair process, the satisfaction of not succumbing to a “disposable society” mentality and the prospect of extending the lifespan of the washer by another 5-8 years made it a worthwhile endeavor.
What was the author’s overall experience with AppliancePartsPros.com?
The author had a highly positive experience with AppliancePartsPros.com. They express gratitude towards the website for its exceptional assistance, informative videos, high-quality parts, and prompt shipping services. The author explicitly acknowledges that without the help they received from the website, their task would not have been possible to accomplish.
What recommendation does the author have for others facing the same problem?
If you are experiencing a similar issue and have the luxury of not needing your washer for around a week, the author suggests that the first step is to disassemble it. Once disassembled, try separating the inner tub from the rear outer tub before purchasing any replacement parts. If successful in separating the tubs and removing the old seals and bearings, it would be possible to reuse the inner tub (as well as the spider, if undamaged). This approach would significantly reduce the expenses involved in resolving the problem.
Was the repair worth it in the end?
Ultimately, was the decision to repair the washer worth it? Absolutely. Although the total cost, which included the fee paid to the professionals, amounted to around $480, it proved to be a more cost-effective option compared to purchasing a new top-loading washer for $400 or a front-loader with similar features for $750. Moreover, the satisfaction derived from not indulging in the “disposable society” mentality was invaluable. In fact, this repair may even extend the lifespan of the washer by another 5-8 years, further solidifying the decision’s worthiness.
What was the total cost of the repair?
After considering all the expenses involved, including the fees charged by the professionals for their services (although their expertise was not necessarily effective), the total cost of the repair amounted to approximately $480. This figure encompasses all the necessary expenditures, taking into account that even purchasing a new washer would have been more cost-effective given the labor rates of the professionals.
Why did the author purchase a new inner tub assembly?
The author decided to purchase a new rear outer tub assembly based on a recommendation from another user. They were advised that replacing the entire assembly would save them time and avoid the potential challenge of removing the old seals. Considering the potential difficulties involved in knocking out the old seals, the author found it more convenient to invest in a $200 part rather than buying an entirely new washer.
What did the author find helpful in the repair process?
In the process of repairing their washer, the author found several helpful aspects. They recommended watching multiple videos to learn various tricks and approaches to disassembling and reassembling the appliance. One technician named Simon stood out, demonstrating how to use string to lift the spring to the washer wall, which the author found particularly useful. Additionally, the author expressed gratitude towards AppliancePartsPros.com for their assistance throughout the repair process. They specifically mentioned the helpful videos, availability of parts, quick shipping, and the other user stories provided on the website. Ultimately, the author acknowledged that without this support, they would not have been able to successfully complete the repair.
What did the author decide to do instead of buying a new washer?
Instead of buying a new washer, the author decided to follow the advice of another user who suggested getting a new rear outer tub assembly to save time and avoid the difficulties of removing the old seals. Recognizing that knocking out the old seals could potentially pose problems, the author opted to spend $200 on the replacement part instead, considering it a more preferable solution compared to investing in an entirely new washing machine.
What is a customer’s experience with replacing the tub assembly?
Based on a customer’s feedback regarding their experience with replacing the tub assembly, they expressed great satisfaction with the entire process. The customer received the tub assembly promptly within just two days of placing their order. They found that the part they received was a perfect fit for their needs, making the replacement process much smoother. With just a single bolt, the customer was able to complete the repair successfully. Overall, their experience with replacing the tub assembly was quick, efficient, and free of any complications.
What is a customer’s experience with replacing the rotor assembly?
One customer, Gordon L. from Greenwood, IN, recently shared his positive experience with replacing the rotor assembly. After ordering the new part, he was pleasantly surprised to find that it came with a metal spline, which appeared to be more durable than the previous one. Utilizing instructional videos on YouTube, Gordon was able to easily perform the repair in less than 10 minutes. He specifically mentioned that the videos were exceptionally helpful, as they guided him to avoid replacing the wrong parts. Additionally, Gordon expressed his gratitude for the prompt shipping of the item. Overall, his experience was smooth and successful, thanks to the quality of the product and the helpful resources available.
What is the price of the rotor assembly for the LG WM2455HW?
The price of the rotor assembly for the LG WM2455HW is $131.05.
What are the symptoms that indicate the need to replace the rotor assembly?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be necessary to replace the rotor assembly in your washer:
1. Unusual noises: If you hear grinding, scraping, or rattling sounds coming from the washer during operation, it could indicate a problem with the rotor assembly.
2. Drum not spinning properly: If the drum fails to rotate or spin as expected, resulting in clothes not being thoroughly cleaned or spun dry, this could be a sign that the rotor assembly needs replacement.
3. Excessive vibrations or shaking: If your washer excessively vibrates or shakes during operation, it may be a result of a faulty rotor assembly.
4. Error codes related to motor or rotor assembly: If your washer displays error codes specifically related to the motor or rotor assembly on its control panel, this suggests that the rotor assembly may need to be replaced.
5. Physical damage or wear on the rotor assembly: If you observe any visible physical damage, such as stripped splines or loose connections between the rotor assembly and the motor, it is advisable to replace the rotor assembly.
Please note that these symptoms are indicative of potential issues with the rotor assembly, and if you are experiencing any of them, it is recommended to consult a professional or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for further assistance.
What is the cause of the “won’t spin” problem 26% of the time?
The cause of the “won’t spin” problem, which occurs 26% of the time, in LG WM2455HW washing machines is often attributed to a faulty rotor assembly. The rotor assembly, a vital component manufactured by LG, is responsible for generating a rotating magnetic field in collaboration with the stator. This magnetic field drives the drum’s motion, ensuring effective cleaning and efficient spinning of the laundry. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to replace the rotor assembly with an OEM replacement part, such as the AP4438254, which is readily available and can be shipped as early as Monday after placing an order.
What is another cause of the “won’t spin” problem 20% of the time?
Are there any repair videos available for replacing the Tub Assembly?
Yes, there is a repair video available that demonstrates how to replace the Tub Assembly.
What is the price of the Tub Assembly?
The price of the Tub Assembly is $613.14.
Is the Tub Assembly currently in stock?
Yes, the Tub Assembly is in stock and will ship on Monday.
What is the part number for the Tub Assembly?
The part number for the Tub Assembly is AP6049771.
What is another cause of the “won’t spin” problem 20% of the time?
The Tub Assembly is mentioned as a cause of the problem.
4. Washer Won’t Spin
Another potential cause of the “won’t spin” problem, occurring 20% of the time, is a faulty Tub Assembly. This crucial component, responsible for ensuring the spinning motion of the washer, can sometimes malfunction and lead to this issue. If you are experiencing this problem, you may want to check the Tub Assembly to see if it needs replacement.
In addition to the Tub Assembly, there are other factors that can contribute to the “won’t spin” problem. An imbalanced load or washer, a dirty lint filter, a faulty door, or a failed motor rotor or control board can also be the culprits. It’s important to address these potential causes as well in order to resolve the issue.
To address an imbalanced load or washer, make sure to balance the laundry and level the washer legs properly. Cleaning a dirty lint filter can also help restore proper functioning. If you suspect a faulty door, it may need to be replaced. However, when it comes to a bad motor rotor or control board, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of an expert technician who can diagnose and fix these specific components.
By considering these potential causes and taking the necessary steps to address them, you can increase the chances of resolving the “won’t spin” problem and restore your washer’s functionality.
Closing Remarks
Discussed are the day-to-day LG direct drive washing machine problems you should be wary of and know how to troubleshoot. Remember, doing so eliminates the need to call an expert LG technician immediately. At Least not until you try fixing it!