LG · Washer Moderate

dE1 — Door not fully closed

The door switch tells the control board the door is not fully closed, so the cycle will not start or has been paused. Usually a closure or sensor issue, not a broken latch.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
lg.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Open the door, redistribute laundry, and make sure nothing is pinched under the rubber gasket.
  2. Wipe the latch tongue and the strike opening with a microfiber cloth and rubbing alcohol; let it dry.
  3. Close the door firmly and start a cycle.
  4. If dE1 returns, unplug the washer for 5 minutes (or press and hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds while unplugged) to reset.
  5. Check that the door is square to the cabinet — tighten loose hinge screws with a Torx driver.
  6. Inspect the plastic strike on the door for cracks or wear; replace if rounded off.
  7. If still failing, replace the door lock/switch assembly.

Why it happens

Typical signs: dE1 on the display · Door appears closed but cycle won't start · Recurs after pushing the door firmly

  • Laundry caught between door and gasket A sock or shirt corner pushed under the gasket holds the door from seating fully.
  • Dirty or contaminated latch contacts Detergent film, lint, or grime on the latch keeps the switch from registering closure.
  • Loose hinge screws A drooping door doesn't align with the latch — common after heavy use.
  • Worn door strike or latch tab Plastic strike wears down so the latch never fully engages the switch.
  • Faulty door switch / lock assembly The microswitch inside the lock assembly has failed open.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Door lock/switch assembly Common replacement
    Amazon →

More LG washer codes

AE AE — Leak (Front-Load) or Drum Drive Fault (Top-Load) CE CE — Overcurrent Error CL CL — Child Lock Is On dE dE / dE1 / dE2 Error — Door Will Not Lock dE2 dE2 — Door closed but won't lock dHE dHE — Drying heater error (combo / WashTower)

All LG codes → All washer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the dE1 code mean on a LG washer?

The door switch tells the control board the door is not fully closed, so the cycle will not start or has been paused. Usually a closure or sensor issue, not a broken latch.

What causes the dE1 code on a LG washer?

Laundry caught between door and gasket: A sock or shirt corner pushed under the gasket holds the door from seating fully. Dirty or contaminated latch contacts: Detergent film, lint, or grime on the latch keeps the switch from registering closure. Loose hinge screws: A drooping door doesn't align with the latch — common after heavy use.

Is it safe to keep using a LG washer with a dE1 error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix dE1 on a LG washer?

Open the door, redistribute laundry, and make sure nothing is pinched under the rubber gasket. Wipe the latch tongue and the strike opening with a microfiber cloth and rubbing alcohol; let it dry. Close the door firmly and start a cycle.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com.