Live Guide
LG · Dryer

LE

Locked Motor Error

Severity
High

Your LG Dryer stopped working and is showing error LE, which corresponds to a fault called "Locked Motor Error". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.

Owner's Summary

Your LG dryer's motor cannot turn the drum. You'll often hear a humming sound as the motor tries and fails to spin it. A broken drive belt is the most common and cheapest cause to fix.

Symptoms

LG dryer motor not turning, humming sound, LE error displayed

Common Causes

  • Broken drive belt
  • Jammed or seized drum roller
  • Foreign object blocking the drum
  • Failed drive motor

How to Fix

  1. 1 Remove rear panel and inspect drive belt for breakage
  2. 2 Manually rotate drum to check for binding or grinding
  3. 3 Check and replace worn drum support rollers
  4. 4 Test motor resistance and replace if open circuit

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter Screwdriver Set Replacement Belt Flashlight

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

The control board monitors motor current and tachometer feedback. LE is triggered when the motor draws stall current — consistent with a jammed or disconnected drum — rather than normal running current, indicating a mechanical fault downstream of the motor.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Stop attempting cycles. A stalled motor under continued power can overheat and burn out.

Technician's Pro Tip

After removing the rear panel, a broken belt is immediately visible — either snapped on the floor of the cabinet or hanging loosely off the motor pulley. This is one of the most common and easiest dryer repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code LE mean on a LG Dryer?
Code LE on a LG Dryer indicates "Locked Motor Error." In practice, the most common trigger is broken drive belt. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $15 to $250.
Can I fix LE myself, or do I need a technician?
Many cases of LE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: remove rear panel and inspect drive belt for breakage. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.
Is it safe to keep using my dryer with code LE showing?
Stop attempting cycles. A stalled motor under continued power can overheat and burn out.
How much does it cost to repair LE on a LG Dryer?
Repair costs for code LE typically range from $15 to $250. Drive belt: $15–$30; Drum rollers: $20–$50; Motor: $80–$250. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.
Estimated Repair Cost USD
$15 $250

Drive belt: $15–$30; Drum rollers: $20–$50; Motor: $80–$250