Alex Turner
Published: May 27, 2025 | Updated: June 10, 2025 | 10 min read

How to Reset LG Dishwasher: Complete Guide for All Models

How to reset LG dishwasher – step-by-step illustrated guide for troubleshooting and restoring LG dishwashers to default settings

Quick solution: Most LG dishwashers reset by holding the Start button for 3 seconds or unplugging for 5 minutes. But different models and error codes need specific approaches - I'll show you exactly what works for your situation.

Your LG dishwasher is acting up again, right? Maybe it's flashing some cryptic error code, stuck mid-cycle, or just refusing to start altogether. I've been there - when we moved into our current house, the LG dishwasher seemed to have a mind of its own for the first few months.

LG makes solid dishwashers with impressive cleaning technology, but like all modern appliances, they're basically computers that occasionally need a reboot. The good news is that most LG dishwasher problems can be solved with the right kind of reset. The tricky part is knowing which reset method to use.

When Your LG Dishwasher Needs a Reset (The Tell-Tale Signs)

After living with LG dishwashers for several years and helping friends troubleshoot theirs, I've learned to recognize the classic signs that usually mean "reset time." Here's what to watch for:

Stuck in cycle purgatory: The dishwasher starts a cycle but never finishes, or it seems to be running forever without actually progressing. Sometimes it gets confused about where it is in the cycle and just keeps going.

Error code parade: You're seeing error codes like IE, OE, LE, or FE flashing on the display. Some of these indicate real problems, but others are just the dishwasher being overly cautious.

Buttons gone rogue: You press Start and nothing happens, or the control panel seems completely unresponsive. Sometimes one button press registers as multiple presses, making it impossible to select what you want.

Door latch drama: The dishwasher thinks the door is open when it's clearly closed, or vice versa. This safety feature can get confused and prevent the dishwasher from starting.

SmartThinQ app confusion: If you have a WiFi-enabled model, the app might show the dishwasher as offline or display incorrect status information. Smart features are great when they work, frustrating when they don't.

LG QuadWash Series: The Premium Performers

QuadWash models are LG's premium line with four spray arms and advanced sensors. They're fantastic cleaners, but all those sensors can sometimes get confused:

1 Simple cycle reset - Press and hold the Start button for 3 seconds. This cancels the current cycle and resets the control board to ready mode.

2 Power cycle method - Turn off the dishwasher, unplug it from the wall for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This clears any temporary glitches in the electronics.

3 Door reset sequence - Open and close the door three times slowly, waiting 5 seconds between each open/close. This helps reset the door latch sensors.

4 Sensor calibration reset - Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner to reset the soil sensors. QuadWash models learn from usage patterns and sometimes need recalibration.

5 Factory reset option - Hold Rinse + Spray + Quick buttons for 5 seconds to restore all settings to factory defaults.

LG TrueSteam Series: The Steam-Powered Champions

TrueSteam dishwashers use steam for better cleaning and sanitizing. The steam system adds complexity but also more potential reset scenarios:

1 Steam system reset - Press and hold the Steam button (if available) for 3 seconds, then press Start. This resets the steam generation system.

2 Temperature reset - TrueSteam models are sensitive to water temperature. Run hot water at your kitchen sink until steaming before starting a reset cycle.

3 Control panel reset - Press and hold Power + Start buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds until the display flashes.

4 Steam generator clearing - Run a TrueSteam cycle with white vinegar (2 cups in bottom) to clear mineral buildup that can confuse sensors.

TrueSteam tip: Hard water can really mess with the steam system. If you're in a hard water area, consider using rinse aid and cleaning the dishwasher monthly with dishwasher cleaner.

LG Studio Series: The Built-In Beauties

Studio models are designed for custom kitchen integration. They're usually more reliable but can be trickier to reset because the controls are often hidden:

1 Hidden control access - On top-control models, open the door to access the control panel, then press and hold Start for 3 seconds.

2 Service mode reset - Some Studio models have a service mode accessed by holding specific button combinations during power-on.

3 Circuit breaker reset - For built-in models, sometimes you need to flip the circuit breaker off for 10 minutes to fully reset the electronics.

4 Professional mode clear - Hold Rinse + Extra Dry buttons for 5 seconds to clear any professional/installer settings.

LG Front Control Series: The Traditional Style

Front control models have the classic dishwasher look with controls on the front door. They're generally simpler to reset:

1 Standard reset - Press and hold the Start/Pause button for 3 seconds until the cycle lights turn off.

2 Control lock reset - If controls are locked, hold the Rinse + Spray buttons for 3 seconds to unlock, then proceed with normal reset.

3 Display reset - Press any button to wake up the display, then hold Start for the reset sequence.

4 Memory clear - Unplug for 15 minutes to clear all temporary memory and custom cycle modifications.

LG Top Control Series: The Sleek Integration

Top control models hide the controls on the top of the door for a clean look. The reset procedures are similar but require opening the door first:

1 Door open reset - Open the door to reveal controls, then press and hold Start for 3 seconds.

2 LED indicator reset - Watch for LED lights on the floor (light beam models) to confirm the reset is working.

3 Child lock override - If child lock is active, hold the appropriate buttons (varies by model) for 3 seconds before attempting reset.

LG Portable Dishwashers: The Mobile Solutions

Portable models have their own quirks since they connect to your kitchen faucet and can be moved around:

1 Connection reset - Disconnect from the faucet, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect before attempting other resets.

2 Water pressure reset - Ensure good water pressure from the faucet, then hold Start for 3 seconds to reset.

3 Drain hose reset - Make sure the drain hose isn't kinked or clogged, as this can cause reset failures.

LG Dishwasher Error Code Resets

IE Error (Water Inlet Issues)

IE errors mean water isn't entering properly. Check that your water is turned on and the inlet valve isn't clogged, then try a reset.

OE Error (Drain Issues)

OE errors indicate drainage problems. Check for clogs in the filter and drain hose before resetting. Sometimes food particles block the drain pump.

LE Error (Motor Issues)

LE errors usually mean the wash motor is having problems. Try a power cycle reset first - unplug for 10 minutes, then restart.

FE Error (Fill Issues)

FE means the dishwasher is overfilling. This often happens with soap suds - switch to low-suds detergent and run a rinse cycle.

1 Error code documentation - Write down the exact error code before resetting - it might come back and you'll need this info for troubleshooting.

2 Address the root cause - Fix the underlying issue (clean filter, check water supply, etc.) before resetting.

3 Clear the code - Press and hold Start for 3 seconds to clear the error and reset the control board.

4 Test run - Run a short cycle to make sure the error doesn't immediately return.

Advanced Reset Techniques (When Standard Methods Fail)

The Nuclear Option: Complete Power Reset

Circuit breaker method: For persistent issues, turn off the circuit breaker that powers your dishwasher for 15 minutes. This forces a complete electrical reset that clears everything.

Filter system reset: Remove and clean all filters thoroughly, then reinstall. Dirty filters can cause sensors to misread and trigger false errors.

Water temperature reset: LG dishwashers are picky about water temperature. Make sure your water heater is set to 120°F and run hot water at the sink before starting the dishwasher.

SmartThinQ App Reset

App connectivity reset: Delete the dishwasher from the SmartThinQ app, reset the dishwasher's WiFi (if equipped), then re-add it to the app.

Router interference: Sometimes router updates or changes can mess with smart dishwasher connectivity. Try moving closer to your router or resetting your WiFi network settings.

What to Expect After Resetting Your LG Dishwasher

Here's what happens after you reset your LG dishwasher and what you might need to reconfigure:

Cycle preferences reset: Custom wash cycle modifications return to factory defaults. You'll need to reprogram your preferred wash intensity, temperature, and drying settings.

Timer and delay start cleared: Any programmed delay start times are wiped clean. You'll need to reset these if you regularly use delayed cycles.

Smart features disconnected: WiFi-enabled models might need to reconnect to your network and re-authorize with the SmartThinQ app.

Error history cleared: The dishwasher forgets previous error codes, which can be both good (fresh start) and bad (you lose diagnostic history).

Sensor recalibration needed: Advanced models with soil sensors might need a few cycles to relearn your typical loads and adjust cleaning accordingly.

Preventing Future LG Dishwasher Issues

Monthly filter cleaning: Clean your dishwasher filter monthly to prevent clogs that can trigger error codes. It's usually at the bottom of the tub and twists out easily.

Use rinse aid: LG dishwashers perform much better with rinse aid, especially in hard water areas. It helps with drying and prevents water spots that can confuse sensors.

Don't overload: Overloading can block spray arms and cause poor cleaning, which makes the dishwasher think something's wrong.

Regular maintenance cycles: Run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner monthly to keep internal components clean and sensors working properly.

Questions I Get Asked All the Time

How do I reset my LG dishwasher when it won't start?

First, try the simple power cycle - turn off the dishwasher, unplug it for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. If that doesn't work, press and hold the Start button for 3 seconds to clear any stuck cycles. I've found this fixes most 'won't start' issues with LG dishwashers.

Will resetting my LG dishwasher clear error codes?

Yes, most error codes clear with a proper reset, but some indicate real problems that will come back. If you're getting IE (water inlet) or OE (drain) errors repeatedly, you probably have a plumbing issue that needs fixing beyond just resetting.

Why does my LG dishwasher need frequent resets?

If you're resetting often, there's usually an underlying issue. Common causes include hard water mineral buildup, clogged filters, or door latch problems. I'd recommend cleaning the filter monthly and checking your water softener if you have one.

How do I factory reset my LG dishwasher?

Hold the Rinse + Spray + Quick/Express buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. The display should flash or show 'Reset' to confirm. This wipes all custom settings back to factory defaults, so you'll need to reprogram your preferences afterward.

Bottom Line

LG dishwashers are generally reliable machines with impressive cleaning technology, but they do occasionally need resets to clear glitches and errors. The key is starting with the simplest reset method before moving to more drastic measures.

Most LG dishwasher issues can be resolved with a simple Start button hold or power cycle. Only go for the factory reset if you're having persistent problems that simple resets won't fix. And remember - if you're resetting frequently, there's probably an underlying maintenance issue that needs attention.

Keep your filters clean, use rinse aid, and don't overload your dishwasher. With proper care, your LG dishwasher should give you years of reliable service with minimal need for resets.