LG Washer dE1 Error — Door Open and Not Locked Fix

What it means

LG washer dE1 error means the door is open and not locked — LG's specific 'Door is open and not locked' code.
The door switch isn't reporting that the door is shut, so the cycle can't begin or has paused mid-wash.

Affected Models

LG Front Load Washer
LG Top Load Washer
LG WashTower (combined washer + dryer)
LG TurboWash Washer
LG TwinWash Washer

Common Causes

Door not pushed fully closed — push firmly until you hear a click
Item of clothing trapped between the door and the seal
Door latch hook bent or damaged
Door switch (interlock) wiring loose
Door switch failed and no longer detects close

How to Fix It

Close the door firmly.

Push the door shut with a firm, deliberate push.
You should hear a definite click as the latch engages.
A gentle close often doesn't fully engage the lock.
Check for trapped items.

Open the door and inspect the rubber seal all the way around.
Socks, underwear, or scrunched clothing can sit in the seal and prevent close.
Remove anything pinched there and try again.
Inspect the door latch hook.

On the door itself, find the small metal hook that engages the lock.
It should be straight and undamaged.
If bent, the door won't latch and the door panel needs replacement.
Power-cycle the washer.

Unplug the washer for 60 seconds, plug back in.
This clears a one-off control board glitch.
If dE1 returns immediately, the door switch is the suspect.

When to Call a Professional

If the door shuts firmly with a click but dE1 remains, the door switch has failed and needs replacement — typically a 30-minute job for a technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LG dE1 and dE2 errors?

Both are door errors but at different stages.
dE1 means the door is open and not locked — the switch hasn't even seen close.
dE2 means the door is closed but the lock isn't engaging — close happened but the locking mechanism failed.
dE2 usually points at a failing door interlock; dE1 usually points at the latch or seal.