Frustrated by the NE error code on your LG dishwasher? You’re not alone. This annoying message means something is wrong with the all-important water diverter, which directs water flow inside the appliance. As any home cook knows, a broken dishwasher means piles of unwashed dishes. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most common issues that can trigger the NE error, and provide steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem yourself. With some basic testing and part replacement, there’s a good chance you can avoid an expensive service call and get your dishwasher running smoothly again.
Causes of the NE Error Code
The NE error code on an LG dishwasher means there is an issue with the water inlet valve, also called the diverter or selector valve. This valve is important because it allows water to flow to the right place at the right time during a wash cycle. Let’s take a deeper look at what could be causing the problem.
Issues with the Diverter Motor
The diverter valve is controlled by a small electric motor. This motor works hard to quickly switch the water back and forth between filling the tub and spraying underneath the dishes. After many uses, the diverter motor may start to wear out. If it gets tired or old parts break, it won’t be able to do its job right anymore.
How can you tell if the motor is the problem? During a cycle, does the water seem unsure about where to go, like it is having trouble deciding between the tub and the spray arms? The motor may be struggling to switch things fast enough. You also might hear clicking or grinding noises coming from the valve area. Those sounds could mean the motor is on its way out.
Other Possible Culprits
Even if the motor tests okay, two other easy fixes could be causing grief for that diverter valve:
| Item | Description |
| Faulty or Loose Wiring | The electrical wires connecting the control board to the motor may be damaged or come loose. Without the right signals, the motor won’t work properly. |
| Malfunctioning Control Board | The board is like the dishwasher’s brain – it tells all the parts what to do and when. If it’s confused or sending mixed messages, the valve won’t get the directions it needs. |
Does checking the wires or board make more sense than replacing the motor? Only one way to know for sure – time to get investigating!
Troubleshooting Steps
When your LG dishwasher shows the NE error code, it means there is a problem with the dishwasher diversion motor or electronic control board. Here are some troubleshooting steps to try before calling a repair person.
Step 1: Power Cycle the Dishwasher
First, let’s try the easy fix – power cycling the dishwasher!
- Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet.
- Wait 2-3 minutes before plugging it back in. This gives the control board a chance to reset.
- Plug the dishwasher back in and press the Power button to turn it on.
Did that fix the NE error code? If not, let’s move on to checking the wiring.
Step 2: Inspect the Wiring
Issues with the wiring can cause an NE error code. Here’s how to check the dishwasher’s wiring:
- Unplug the dishwasher again. Safety first!
- Take off the bottom front toe panel or kick plate. This gives you access to the internal wiring.
- Check the colored wires and wire connectors. Do you see any frays, burn spots, or loose connections? If so, that could be the culprit!
- Tighten any loose wiring connections with pliers.
- If any wires are damaged, they will need to be replaced.
Tip: Use a multimeter to check if electricity is flowing properly through each wire. If not, that wire is damaged.
Wiring issues can be tricky, so call a technician if you’re unsure!
Step 3: Test the Diverter Motor
The NE error points to a problem with the diverter motor. To test this part:
- Pull out the dishwasher (disconnect hoses first) to access the bottom panel.
- Remove the base panel to get to the diverter motor.
- Label and disconnect the motor wires.
- Unscrew and remove the motor from its housing.
- Use a multimeter to check the electrical resistance between the motor terminals. Good resistance should be around 4,000 Ohms.
- If the reading is off by more than 200 Ohms, the diverter motor needs to be replaced.
Carefully reinstall the diverter motor if testing checks out OK. If the NE code still won’t clear, the electronic control board could be malfunctioning. An appliance repair technician may be needed at that point.
Wrapping It All Up
After carefully following the troubleshooting steps, do you now have a working dishwasher again? Hopefully, those simple checks identified what was causing the NE error code. Electrical faults can be tricky, but breaking the problem down piece by piece helps track things down.
Think back to what you learned while fixing your machine. Was it a worn-out diverter motor making too much noise? Loose wiring that just needed tightening? Or did the electronic control board need replacing? Understanding why it was faulty helps prevent new issues down the road. You’re now an expert at dishwashers!
Always be sure to return your dishwasher safely under the counter before starting a test cycle, too. Wouldn’t want your freshly-washed dishes scattered everywhere, right? Take your time during the process. Rushing could lead to oversights.
With any appliance repair, it’s important to feel comfortable fixing minor problems yourself whenever possible. That way, expensive service calls aren’t always required for easy fixes. The steps covered should give you the basics to handle most basic door NE error code situations confidently in the future, too. As with any project, practice makes perfect.
Hopefully, this guide has helped shine a light on your dishwasher’s troubles. As always, be safe working around electricity. And enjoy your like-new machine – until next time!