bE2
LG Washing Machine
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The bE2 error means one or more buttons on your LG washer's control panel are stuck or are being held down continuously. The washer treats a stuck button as a user input error and pauses operation. It is often caused by detergent or moisture getting into the panel.
Affected Models
- WM3900HWA
- WM4000HWA
- WM3500CW
- WM3700HWA
- Most LG front-load washers
Common Causes
- Detergent splatter or sticky residue under a button causing it to stick
- Moisture or condensation has gotten into the control panel
- A button's plastic tab is physically broken in the pressed position
- A child held a button down long enough to trigger the stuck-button detection
- Worn membrane switch beneath the buttons on older machines
How to Fix It
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Look closely at the control panel — is any button visibly stuck down or sitting lower than the others?
Press each button individually to feel if any are sticky or not springing back.
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Clean the control panel thoroughly with a slightly damp cloth.
Pay extra attention around the buttons. Do not use spray cleaners directly on the panel.
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Unplug the washer for 60 seconds, then plug back in.
A power reset clears the stuck-button flag from the control board's memory.
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Press and release every button on the panel once after the reset.
This helps confirm each button is registering correctly.
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If the error returns immediately, the membrane switch under the panel needs replacement.
A technician can usually replace just the touchpad, not the entire control board.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning and a power reset do not clear the error — the control panel touchpad membrane needs to be replaced. This is a moderately affordable repair, typically $75–$160 with labor. Avoid running cycles with a stuck button as it can interfere with cycle control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bE2 different from bE on an LG washer?
Yes — bE usually means one button is stuck or shorted. bE2 can mean multiple buttons are detected as stuck simultaneously, or it is the second button fault code in LG's error sequence. The fix approach is the same for both.
Can I use Child Lock to work around the bE2 error?
No — Child Lock prevents button inputs, but it does not fix a stuck button. If the stuck button is detected at the hardware level, the error will persist regardless of Child Lock status.
How do I prevent button errors on my LG washer?
Wipe the control panel dry after any splashes. Never spray cleaning products directly onto the panel. Keep the area around the washer dry and ventilated to reduce condensation buildup.