LG · Dryer
LG Dryer E13 Error Code
Steam generator or steam function fault
What this error means
E13 appears on LG steam-capable dryers when the steam generator cannot produce steam—water not reaching the steam chamber, a clogged nozzle, or a steam valve fault.
How E13 is detected
E13 on LG dryer units indicates the drive system did not meet expected performance. Direct-drive washers monitor rotor position with a hall sensor; dryers and dishwashers track motor current draw. When the drum or spray arm fails to turn, the inverter or motor relay shuts down to prevent burned windings. LG DLEX9000V, LG DLGX9001V, and similar variants may show this fault after an overloaded tub or a foreign object jam.
Steam water supply valve closed at the Y-connector is a leading trigger. Start with open the small steam water valve tied to the cold inlet. Rotate the drum or spray arm by hand when powered off—it should move without grinding. Grinding confirms mechanical obstruction; free rotation with repeated E13 on light loads suggests hall sensor, motor, or inverter board failure requiring professional diagnosis.
Common causes
- Steam water supply valve closed at the Y-connector
- Mineral scale blocking the steam nozzle at the drum
- Kinked thin steam inlet tube behind the dryer
- Failed steam generator solenoid
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Open the small steam water valve tied to the cold inlet
- 2Run a Steam Fresh cycle with the nozzle facing down per manual diagram
- 3Descale the steam line using LG-approved cleaner if hard water is present
- 4Confirm standard drying still works—E13 only affects steam features on most models
When to call a technician
If steam cycles never produce mist after supply checks, the steam generator assembly needs replacement.
Affected models
- LG DLEX9000V
- LG DLGX9001V
- LG DLEX9500K
Prevention & maintenance
- Avoid washing single heavy rugs or shoes that bind the drum; distribute weight evenly to reduce motor strain that precedes E13.
- Record when E13 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your LG dryer—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for E13; LG uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting E13; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.