Unbalanced Load

What it means

This code appears on LG front-load and top-load washing machines and means the washer tried several times to spread the laundry around the drum and failed, so it stopped or slowed the spin to protect itself. Most often the cause is the load itself: one heavy item, a very small load or tangled clothes. A fault in the shock absorbers or drum bearings is less common; 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: OELECEDE

Symptoms4

• UE shows and the washer does not finish the spin or spins slowly.
• Clothes come out wetter than usual.
• The drum turns back and forth several times before spinning, trying to balance the load.
• Strong shaking, or the washer moves on the floor at the start of spin.

Possible causes7

• One heavy item such as a bath mat or blanket bunching on one side.
• A very small load that cannot spread evenly.
• Tangled clothes, or items wrapped inside a duvet cover.
• The washer is not level or its feet are loose.
• Shipping bolts not removed from a new washer.
• Weak shock absorbers or suspension springs.
• Worn drum bearings, which is less common.

How to diagnose6

1. Open the door once it unlocks, spread the clothes by hand, untangle bunched items and restart the spin.
2. If the load is one heavy item, add two or three towels to balance it.
3. Check that the washer is level and all four feet sit firmly on the floor.
4. On a new washer, confirm the rear shipping bolts were removed as described in the owner's manual.
5. If UE appears with normal medium loads, a technician unplugs the washer and checks the shock absorbers and springs, and turns the drum by hand to test the bearings.
6. The technician listens to the drum while it turns; a steady rumble or grinding points to the bearings.

How to fix6

1. Redistribute the clothes, add items to balance a heavy piece, and wash blankets in a suitable load.
2. Adjust and lock the feet so the washer is level.
3. Remove the shipping bolts if they are still fitted.
4. Replace weak shock absorbers or springs.
5. Replace the drum bearings if they are proven worn.
6. Run a spin cycle with a medium load and confirm it finishes without the code returning.

Most cases cost nothing because they come down to the load or leveling; the cost is moderate when the shock absorbers need replacing and highest when the drum bearings must be changed.

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