LG · Washing Machine
LG Washing Machine CE Error Code
Communication error between boards
What this error means
CE is a Communication Error between the main control board and the sub-PCB or display module. Cycles may freeze mid-program or the panel may flash CE without responding to buttons.
How CE is detected
When CE 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 WM3900HWA, LG WM3700HWA, 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 CE calls are resolved without parts: unplug the washer for five full minutes, then restore power. 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 CE 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 ribbon cable between display and main board
- Power surge damaging a board communication chip
- Moisture or condensation on board connectors
- Failed sub-PCB on models with separate inverter communication
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Unplug the washer for five full minutes, then restore power
- 2Press and hold Power for three seconds to clear a stuck UI state
- 3Avoid using the machine on an unprotected outlet during storms
- 4If CE appears at startup every time, photograph the code and model plate for service
When to call a technician
CE after power reset usually requires main board or display PCB replacement with model-matched parts.
Affected models
- LG WM3900HWA
- LG WM3700HWA
- LG WM3400CW
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use washing machines to prevent CE from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when CE 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 CE; LG uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting CE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.