Door Open or Door Lock Error

What it means

This code appears on LG front-load and top-load washing machines and shows on the display as dE. It means the washer cannot confirm that the door or lid is closed and locked, so it will not start the cycle or stops it. The most common cause is a door not fully closed because of trapped clothes or a misaligned hinge, followed by the door lock itself. Newer models may show the more specific dE1 or dE2; the same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: LG front-load and top-load washing machines (including Direct Drive models); the code shows on the display.

Related codes: DE1DE2PFUE

Symptoms4

• dE shows when you press Start and the cycle does not begin.
• The washer stops suddenly during the cycle and shows the code.
• The usual door lock click is not heard at start.
• The lock light does not come on, or it blinks.

Possible causes6

• The door or lid is not fully closed.
• Clothing caught between the door and the drum or in the door seal.
• Misaligned door hinge or door hook that does not engage the lock properly.
• Failed door lock or its internal switch.
• Loose or broken wiring to the lock.
• A main board fault that cannot read the lock state, which is rare.

How to diagnose5

1. Open the door, make sure no clothing is caught in the seal or at the edge, then close it firmly until it clicks.
2. Unplug the washer for a few minutes, plug it back in and try again.
3. Look at the door hook; if it is broken or bent, it is usually the cause.
4. If the code repeats with the door properly closed, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the door lock, the power reaching it and its wiring against the manufacturer specification.
5. If the lock and wiring test good, the technician checks the main board.

How to fix6

1. Remove trapped clothing and close the door firmly.
2. Adjust the door hinge or replace the door hook if it is bent or broken.
3. Replace the door lock if it is proven faulty.
4. Repair loose or broken lock wiring.
5. Replace the main board only after the lock and wiring are confirmed good.
6. Run a full cycle and confirm the door locks and unlocks normally without the code returning.

Many cases are solved for free by closing the door properly or removing trapped clothing; the usual repair is a new door lock at moderate cost, and the price rises only if the main board is at fault.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions