Code: dE1🧺 LG Washer

LG Washer dE1 (dE, dE2) Error Code: Door Not Closed or Not Locking (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-23 · Based on 4 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

LG's help library says the dE1 (Door Error) code "appears on the display when the washer door is open or not fully closed." LG groups it with two close relatives: a plain dE code means the door was unable to lock, and dE2 means the door is closed but not locked, which LG links to too much laundry, items stuck in the gasket, or a bent or broken door latch. Front-load washers lock the door before every cycle, and the control won't run until its door switch confirms the door is shut and locked. That's why something as small as a sock in the gasket can stop the whole wash.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Open the door and push any clothes away from the opening and the rubber gasket, farther back into the drum. Take a few items out if the drum is packed.
  2. Close the door by pressing the center of the door near the handle until you hear it click.
  3. If the code is still there, turn the washer off and unplug it (or switch off its circuit breaker).
  4. With the power off, press and hold START/PAUSE for 5 seconds. LG says this clears leftover power in the electronics.
  5. Plug the washer back in (or turn the breaker on), press the door firmly closed and pick any cycle. The door should lock and the cycle should start without dE1.
  6. Look at the door latch (the hook on the door) and the lock opening on the washer for visible damage, a missing plastic cover, or something stuck in the slot.
  7. Close the door gently and check whether it sits loose or crooked. LG notes that a bent hinge can keep the latch from lining up with the lock.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • dE1 keeps returning after the reset. LG says service is required at that point.
  • The door latch, hinge or lock is visibly cracked, bent or broken.
  • The door won't stay closed at all, or the rubber gasket is torn or badly misshapen.
  • You'd need to test the door lock switches with a multimeter. LG Canada says a switch with no continuity means the lock should be replaced, but that means taking panels off with the washer unplugged.
  • The washer is under warranty. Request service through LG support rather than replacing parts yourself.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

LG washer door lock assembly (exact part for your model number)

Only if the lock is damaged or fails a continuity test. Match the part to the model number on the label inside the door frame.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_DOOR_LOCK]
⚙

Digital multimeter

For testing the door lock switches for continuity with the washer unplugged.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_MULTIMETER]

Sources

  1. LG USA: If Your Front-Load Washer Shows a dE1 Error Code (door open or not fully closed; causes; press until it clicks)
  2. LG USA: Front Load Washer, What are dE, dE1, and dE2 Error Codes? (reset steps, hold START/PAUSE 5 seconds, service if it continues)
  3. LG Canada: dE Error Code, Front Load Washer (door unable to lock; hinge, latch, strike and door lock checks)
  4. LG Philippines: If Your Front-Load Washer Shows a dE1 Error Code

Last reviewed 2026-10-23. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.