LG Dryer: error code P5
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.
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
- 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.
Power reset to clear temporary faults
- 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.
Most relevant component to inspect
Humidity Sensor
Measures relative humidity so the appliance can regulate drying or moisture removal.
- Typical part-only price
- $20 - $100
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 20-60 mins
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.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Model-compatible Dryer parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.
Lint Trap Cleaning Brush
A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.
Dryer Vent Hose Kit
A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace moisture sensor or humidity sensor assembly
Control board diagnostics and repair/replacement
When to Call a Professional
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?
How do I fix LG Dryer error code P5 myself?
How much does it cost to fix error code P5?
When should I call a technician for error code P5?
References & Sources
- LG Dryer - Error Code List Official
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
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.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
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