Want a regional phone & address? Pick your area.
LG·washerhigh severity
LG Error Code AE
Water leak detected
Common Causes
- 1Tub seal failure
- 2Hose leak
Water leaks near electrical components pose shock and fire risk. Unplug the washer before investigating. If the leak has been ongoing, check the subfloor for water damage — California homes with raised foundations are especially vulnerable.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- 1
Check for visible water under and around the washer — the AE code is triggered by the leak sensor (float switch) in the base pan of the machine
- 2
Tilt the washer back carefully and inspect the base pan for standing water — remove the water and look for active drip sources
- 3
Inspect the tub-to-pump hose connections, the door boot seal clamp, and the detergent dispenser hose for drips
- 4
Check the outer tub bearing seal — if the bearing is worn, water seeps past the seal during spin and drips down into the base pan
- 5
If no external leak is visible, the internal tub seal between the inner and outer drum has failed — this requires removing the drum assembly
Pro Diagnostic Tip
The AE code triggers from the base pan float switch. On LG front-loaders, the most common internal leak source is the door boot seal inner clamp losing tension — the outer clamp is easy to inspect, but the inner clamp requires removing the front panel. Check both before suspecting the tub seal.
You Might Also Notice
- •Water visible under the washer
- •Musty smell from washer area
- •Rust stains on laundry room floor
- •Washer stopping mid-cycle
Parts, Cost & Difficulty
Repair Difficulty
Professional OnlyEstimated Repair Cost
$180–$400
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
MDS47123604 (Door Boot Seal)4036ER2004A (Tub Bearing and Seal Kit)AEM69493803 (Tub-to-Pump Hose)
Do You Have the Right Tools?
Bearing puller set ($120), drum spider wrench ($85), multimeter ($85), and diagnostic software. Our technician arrives with $15K+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
Safety First — Know the Risks
High-voltage components and pressurized water lines create flood and shock risk. A single loose fitting can cause thousands in water damage. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
Get Professional Help Now
Error code AE is a high-severity issue that can cause further damage to your washer if left unresolved. A licensed technician can diagnose and fix it the same day.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Appointments Available
4.85 (232 verified reviews)
Same-Day Appliance Repair
Fixed or It's Free
$89 → $0 Service Call & Diagnosis — offer ends May 31
Frequently Asked Questions
What does LG error code AE mean?
LG error code AE indicates: Water leak detected. This is a high-severity issue affecting your washer.
How do I fix LG error code AE?
Check for visible water under and around the washer — the AE code is triggered by the leak sensor (float switch) in the base pan of the machine Then, Tilt the washer back carefully and inspect the base pan for standing water — remove the water and look for active drip sources Then, Inspect the tub-to-pump hose connections, the door boot seal clamp, and the detergent dispenser hose for drips There are 2 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. This repair typically requires professional tools and expertise.
How do I know if my washer has error AE?
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: Water visible under the washer; Musty smell from washer area; Rust stains on laundry room floor. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your washer's display panel for error code AE.
How much does it cost to fix LG AE?
Repair costs for LG AE typically range from $180 to $400 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.