LG · Washing Machine
LG Washing Machine AE Error Code
Auto shutoff from leak detection
What this error means
AE indicates an Auto Error shutoff related to leak or overflow protection on certain LG models. The machine stopped incoming water and locked out further operation until the leak path is identified and dried.
How AE is detected
When AE appears on a LG washing machine, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On LG WM8100HVA, LG WM9000HVA, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most AE calls are resolved without parts: unplug and pull the washer forward to inspect the rear drain hose connections. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If AE returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Loose drain hose clamp leaking during spin
- Torn door boot allowing water to escape at the front
- Over-sudding pushing foam through the door seal
- Internal tub hose clamp slipped during transport
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Unplug and pull the washer forward to inspect the rear drain hose connections
- 2Examine the gray door boot fold for pinholes or tears at the bottom
- 3Use HE detergent only and reduce amount if suds overflowed before AE
- 4Dry any moisture at the base and run a short rinse to confirm no new leaks
When to call a technician
If AE returns after one cycle with a dry base, an internal hose or tub seal is leaking and needs disassembly.
Affected models
- LG WM8100HVA
- LG WM9000HVA
- LG WM5000HVA
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use washing machines to prevent AE from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when AE appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your LG washing machine—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for AE; LG uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting AE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.