LG Dishwasher Error Code 5E

The 5E code on an LG dishwasher means the drain pump is drawing more than 3 watts of power during operation, which indicates the pump is working against abnormal resistance. The dishwasher makes three attempts to drain and, if all three fail, it stops the cycle and displays 5E. This is most commonly caused by a foreign object stuck in the drain pump or a blocked drain hose. Clearing the obstruction typically resolves the fault.

You should not continue running the dishwasher while the 5E code is active. The dishwasher has already halted the cycle because the pump is under stress, and forcing additional cycles can overheat the pump motor and cause further damage. There is also likely standing water in the tub that should be removed. Address the drain blockage before restarting the appliance.

If the fix is simply removing a foreign object or cleaning the filter and drain hose, there is no parts cost and only your time is involved. If the drain pump motor has seized or failed and needs replacement, parts typically range from roughly $30 to $100 depending on the specific LG model, with professional labor adding $80 to $200 on top of that. Diagnosing the root cause before ordering parts helps avoid unnecessary expenses.

Start by removing and cleaning the filter assembly at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, then inspect the drain pump impeller area for any foreign objects such as glass, food debris, or small items. Next, check the drain hose for kinks or blockages along its entire length. If the machine is connected to a garbage disposal, run the disposal to clear it and confirm the dishwasher knockout plug was removed during installation. If clearing the drain path does not resolve the error, the drain pump motor may need to be replaced.

Resetting the dishwasher by cutting power for a few minutes may temporarily clear the 5E code, but the error will return as soon as the machine attempts to drain again if the underlying cause has not been fixed. The control board triggers 5E based on real-time pump power readings, so a reset alone does not resolve a blockage or a failing pump. Clearing the fault permanently requires physically addressing the drain system.