Kenmore Washing Machine Error LE

⚡ Quick Answer: The Kenmore washing machine LE error indicates a motor lock protection issue, often caused by an overloaded drum or excessive suds. This error prevent... ✅ DIY Fixable

What Does Error LE Mean?

The Kenmore washing machine LE error indicates a motor lock protection issue, often caused by an overloaded drum or excessive suds. This error prevents the washer from operating normally, resulting in symptoms like the drum not rotating, unexpected stops during the spin cycle, and the LE code displaying on the control panel. Basic troubleshooting includes reducing load size and detergent use, while persistent issues may indicate a need for technical inspection of the motor and drive system.

Common Symptoms:

  • Washer barely rotates or does not rotate
  • Washer stops unexpectedly before or during spin cycle
  • LE appears after starting a cycle
  • Excessive suds or overloaded drum present when code appears

Possible Causes

  • Overloaded drum causing motor lock or drive strain (high)
  • Excessive detergent / oversudsing interfering with spin and drive (medium)
  • Physical obstruction or resistance in drive system (high)
  • Loose wiring connections related to drive motor or tachometer (medium)
  • Motor component failure (rotor magnets, hall/RPS sensor or motor itself) (medium)

How to Fix Error LE

DIY Fix Basic checks to clear LE code

  1. Cancel the current cycle
  2. Remove some laundry to avoid overloading
  3. Reduce detergent for future loads
  4. Let excessive suds subside then run a Drain/Spin cycle
  5. Manually try to spin the drum (power off) to check for binding

Technician Only Inspect drive system and motor components

  1. Unplug and access motor area
  2. Check wiring harness connections for continuity and secure fit
  3. Inspect drive motor rotor magnets and hall/RPS sensor
  4. Test motor, tachometer, and control board signals with appropriate tools
  5. Replace defective motor parts, sensors, or wiring as identified

Parts needed: motor drive assembly, rotor position sensor (RPS/hall sensor), motor wiring harness, control board if needed

🛑 When to Call a Pro:
  • If basic user-level troubleshooting does not clear the code
  • If manual drum rotation reveals binding that requires internal disassembly
  • If electrical testing indicates faulty sensors or motor components

Technical Specifications

wattage 500W
component Motor Drive Unit
resistance 10-20 ohms
part_number W10664832
voltage_rating 120V AC

Common Questions

What does LE error mean on kenmore washing machine?

LE error indicates a motor lock or drive system fault, preventing normal operation and causing the drum to barely rotate or stop unexpectedly.

Can I fix kenmore washing machine LE error myself?

Yes, you can try canceling the cycle, removing excess laundry, and reducing detergent to clear the LE code.

How much does it cost to fix LE error?

Repair costs for the LE error range from $100 to $400+, depending on the required parts and service.

When should I call a technician for LE?

Call a technician if basic troubleshooting fails, if there's binding during manual drum rotation, or if electrical testing shows faulty components.

Data last verified: 2026-02-19

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