LG Dishwasher Error Code CE2 — Communication Error (Secondary)

What Does This Error Mean?

The CE2 error means there's a communication problem between two internal circuit boards in your LG dishwasher. Modern LG dishwashers use two boards — a main control board and a display/user interface board — that constantly communicate with each other. CE2 indicates those boards have lost their connection. This can be caused by a loose internal wiring harness, a glitch in one of the boards, or an actual board failure. A power reset fixes CE2 surprisingly often.

Affected Models

LDF5545ST
LDT5678SS
LDFN4542S
LDP6810SS
LDT7808SS
LG dishwashers with separate UI and main control boards

Common Causes

Loose or partially disconnected wiring harness between the main control board and the display board
Power surge or voltage fluctuation that disrupted communication between the two boards
Moisture or condensation on the wire harness connectors causing a poor connection
Failed main control board that can no longer send signals to the display board
Failed display/UI board that has stopped responding to the main board

How to Fix It

Unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet. Wait a full 5 minutes — not just 30 seconds. Plug it back in and try starting a new cycle. A complete power reset clears voltage-induced communication errors in about 30-40% of CE2 cases.

If the dishwasher is hardwired (no plug), switch off the circuit breaker for 5 minutes.
If the reset doesn't clear CE2, you'll need to access the door panel to inspect the wiring harness that connects the two boards. Open the door and remove the inner door panel screws (usually around the perimeter). Carefully open the door panel to expose the boards and wiring.

Take a photo before disconnecting anything — this makes reassembly much easier.
Locate the ribbon cable or wiring harness that connects the display board at the top of the door to the main control board at the bottom. Disconnect it at both ends, inspect the connectors for bent pins or corrosion, and firmly reconnect both ends. Make sure each connector clicks into place.

Ribbon cables in dishwasher doors can become partially dislodged over years of opening and closing the door.
Check the door area for any signs of moisture on the boards or connectors. Steam from a hot rinse cycle can occasionally condense inside the door panel. If you see moisture marks, dry the area with a cloth and let it air out for several hours before reassembling.

Moisture issues are more common in dishwashers that are run frequently with heated dry settings.
If the CE2 code persists after harness inspection and reconnection, either the main board or display board has failed. Have a technician determine which board is at fault using a diagnostic mode before ordering replacement parts — replacing the wrong board wastes money.

LG's diagnostic mode can sometimes identify which board is throwing errors. Check your service manual or the LG website for diagnostic mode entry procedures for your model.

When to Call a Professional

If a power reset and harness inspection don't fix CE2, one of the two control boards needs replacement. Replacement LG control boards cost $80-$180 for the part. Diagnosing which board is faulty requires a technician with diagnostic experience. Expect $150-$350 for board replacement including labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between CE and CE2 on LG dishwashers?

CE typically refers to a general communication or motor drive error. CE2 specifically indicates a failure of the internal communication link between the main control board and the display/interface board. The fix process starts the same (power reset, harness check) but CE2 always involves the board-to-board communication path.

Can I still use my dishwasher with a CE2 error?

In most cases, no — the dishwasher won't start or complete cycles with an active CE2 code. The display may be unresponsive, or cycles may abort mid-wash. Don't force multiple restart attempts, which can sometimes stress aging boards further.

Is it worth repairing CE2 on an older dishwasher?

If the dishwasher is less than 7-8 years old and otherwise in good shape, yes — a control board replacement is usually worth it. If the machine is 10+ years old and has had other issues, compare repair cost to replacement. A new mid-range LG dishwasher runs $500-$800, while a board repair might cost $200-$350.