Lg Dryer: error code P5

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG dryer displays the error code P5, it may refuse to start or stop mid-cycle. This code, not officially documented by LG, is often reported by users and suggests potential issues with the moisture sensor or control board. Addressing this problem promptly can ensure your dryer operates efficiently.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

Official LG error code lists do not explicitly document P5, so interpretation largely relies on community-sourced diagnostics where P5 is linked to sensor or electronics faults.

Possible Causes

Moisture sensor malfunction or false reading

How to Identify: Error code P5 shown; inconsistent drying performance; moist clothes still after cycle; dryer stops prematurely or fails to start

Part: Moisture sensor (humidity sensor inside drum)

Control board or electronics communication issue

How to Identify: P5 persists despite cleaning sensors and inspections; display resets only after power reset with no functional change

Part: Main control board / electronics

DIY Solutions

Clean moisture sensors inside the drum

Moderate 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: soft cloth, mild cleaner (e.g., rubbing alcohol)

Unplug the dryer power cord or disconnect power at breaker.
Locate the moisture sensor bars inside the drum (usually near the lint filter opening).
Use a soft cloth lightly moistened with mild cleaner to gently wipe the sensor bars to remove residue, lint, and fabric softener films.
Allow sensors to dry, restore power, and restart the dryer to check if P5 clears.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before cleaning internal components.

Power reset to clear temporary faults

Easy 5 minutes

Turn the dryer OFF via the power button.
Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or switch OFF its breaker for 1-2 minutes.
Restore power and attempt to start a drying cycle to see if the P5 code is cleared.

Next step

Choose the next step for error code P5

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Based on diagnostic data

Most relevant component to inspect

Main Control Board

The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.

Typical part-only price: $120 - $280
DIY difficulty: Medium
Estimated time: 20-40 mins

Optional: enter your model number

Where can I find the model number?

Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.

Find a part that fits my model

Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.

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Professional Repairs

Replace moisture sensor or humidity sensor assembly

Estimated Cost: $30 - $80

Control board diagnostics and repair/replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

P5 error persists after cleaning sensors and power resetting

Error reappears frequently or dryer is non-operational

Diagnostic multimeter testing suggests sensor or board faults beyond user-level fixes

Preventive Maintenance

Clean moisture sensors and lint filter: Sensor false readings and airflow-related issues
Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Dryer error code P5?

The P5 code often indicates a malfunctioning moisture sensor or a control board communication issue.

How do I fix LG Dryer error code P5 myself?

You can clean the moisture sensors or perform a power reset to resolve temporary faults.

How much does it cost to fix error code P5?

Professional repairs for error code P5 can range from $30 to $350, depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for error code P5?

If DIY solutions do not work or you're uncomfortable with repairs, it's best to call a technician.

References & Sources

LG Dryer - Error Code List Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Incorrect wiring or connections in the dryer
Faulty door switch preventing dryer from operating
Malfunctioning control board or wiring harness

User Suggested Solutions

Check and correct the wiring connections. Unplug the dryer, remove the back panel, and inspect all wiring for loose or incorrect connections. Refer to the wiring diagram in the user manual to ensure correct installation.
Test the door switch for continuity. Use a multimeter to check if the door switch is functioning properly. If it is faulty, replace it with a new one.
Inspect the control board and wiring harness for damage. Look for burnt components or loose connections. If damaged, replace the control board or wiring harness as necessary.