Dishwasher
3E
The 3E error code on an LG dishwasher signals a fault with the wash motor — specifically, the motor isn’t running as it should. It’s a mid-to-serious fault that will stop your dishwasher from completing a cycle.
What does this error mean?
The 3E code means the dishwasher’s control board has detected that the wash pump motor is not operating correctly — it’s either drawing the wrong current, not spinning at all, or stalling under load. LG dishwashers monitor motor performance in real time, so even intermittent motor issues will trigger this code. In most cases, the machine will stop mid-cycle and refuse to restart until the fault is resolved.
Est. repair cost
£120–£200 professional repair (motor replacement); £40–£80 DIY if you’re replacing just the capacitor or harness connector
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off and reset: Switch the dishwasher off at the wall socket, leave it for 10 minutes, then power back on and start a short cycle. A one-off motor glitch can sometimes be cleared this way.
Clean the filter and sump: Remove the lower basket, unscrew the cylindrical filter, and lift out the flat mesh filter beneath it. Rinse both under the tap and check the sump cavity below for any hard debris — glass fragments, bones, or labels are common culprits.
Check the wash pump impeller: With the filters removed, reach into the sump and locate the impeller (the small plastic fan visible at the bottom). Try turning it gently with your finger — it should rotate freely. If it’s stiff or jammed, carefully remove any obstruction with tweezers.
Inspect the door seal and spray arms: Ensure the spray arms spin freely and their holes are not blocked. Blocked arms force the motor to work harder and can contribute to overload errors.
Check for error recurrence: Reassemble everything, run a full cycle, and monitor. If 3E returns immediately or within the first few minutes, the fault is likely the motor or wiring — stop here and call an engineer.
Do NOT open the motor housing or attempt to test or replace the motor yourself unless you are a qualified appliance technician — doing so involves working with mains-connected components.
📞 When to call a professional
If the 3E error returns after cleaning the filter and clearing the sump, book a qualified appliance repair engineer — the motor, capacitor, or wiring harness will need testing with a multimeter. Tell the engineer: ‘My LG dishwasher is showing a 3E error code — the wash motor appears to be faulty.’ This helps them bring the right parts. Avoid using the dishwasher until it’s repaired, as a stalled motor can cause overheating.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A wash motor replacement by a UK appliance engineer typically costs £120–£200 including parts and labour. If your LG dishwasher is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worthwhile. For machines 8 years or older, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range dishwasher (£350–£600) — if the motor has gone, other components may follow soon.