Kenmore Washer Error Codes: 100, 200, and 400 Series

Quick Answer

Kenmore washer error codes vary because these machines are manufactured by either LG or Whirlpool. To fix most errors, identify the manufacturer using the model number prefix and reset the unit by unplugging it for one minute.

Kenmore's the weird one in the appliance world because it's not actually a brand that builds washers. Either LG or Whirlpool made yours, and that changes everything about how you fix it. Ignore this and you might order a drain pump that won't even fit. And if you keep running the machine while it's throwing codes, you're risking motor or bearing damage that turns a $30 filter cleaning into a $400 repair.

KenmoreWasher

About These Kenmore Washer Error Codes

Most Kenmore faults like OE or 5d are honestly just maintenance issues, not expensive broken parts. I'd say 7 out of 10 calls I get for these machines come down to a clogged drain filter or somebody dumping regular detergent into an HE machine. The key thing is figuring out which platform yours runs on before you do anything else, because you'll waste real money ordering parts that won't fit your machine.

Most Common Error Codes

Overloaded drum stalling or overloading the motor (LE)40%

Clogged drain pump filter preventing drainage (OE)24%

Too much detergent or wrong detergent type causing suds (5d)14%

Inverter board failure on LG-platform models12%

Foreign object in drain pump impeller10%

Symptoms You May Notice

Machine stops dead mid-wash with a code on the display and just sits there with several inches of standing water in the drum.
You open the door at the end of a cycle and find soaking wet clothes sitting in water that never drained.
Foam actually bubbling up out of the door seal, or you can see suds packed inside the drum through the glass.
Drum starts spinning, then there's a grinding noise and it stops cold, throwing an LE right before the spin cycle was supposed to kick into high gear.
Machine starts fine but shuts itself off within 2 or 3 minutes every single time, same code on the display every restart.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Phillips #2 screwdriverMultimeterShallow pan or baking sheetOld towels or rags (at least 4-5 on hand)FlashlightNeedle-nose pliers

How to Identify Your Error Code

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kenmore washer error codes the same as LG error codes?

In my experience, yes. If your model starts with 796, it is an LG machine with a Kenmore badge. You can use LG parts which are often easier to find and cheaper. The motor, pump, and even the tub bearings are identical. Just make sure you match the part number to your specific model to account for minor design changes LG made over the years.

How do I know if my Kenmore washer is the LG platform or Whirlpool platform?

The secret is the first three digits of the model number. 110 means Whirlpool made it, while 796 means LG. This matters because the two companies use completely different logic for their error codes. A Whirlpool built Kenmore might use F and E codes, while the LG built models use two letter codes like OE. Always check that tag before buying any replacement parts.

How do I clear an error code on a Kenmore front-load washer?

A simple power reset usually does the trick. Unplug it for sixty seconds. For the LG style Kenmore units, I like to hold the Start button while it's unplugged to fully clear the memory. If the code comes back as soon as the motor tries to turn or the pump tries to kick on, you have a physical part failure that needs hands-on attention.

My Kenmore washer shows a code I cannot find in this guide. What do I do?

If your code isn't here, you likely have a Whirlpool built Kenmore using the F#E# format. Those machines follow different diagnostic rules. You should look up the specific Whirlpool error code guide for your model. If it is an LG build and the code is weird, check for a blinking light pattern instead, which can sometimes signal a more specific communication error between the display and the main board.

Can I use LG replacement parts in a Kenmore 400 or 500 series washer?

Absolutely. I do this all the time to save customers money. Since Kenmore is just a brand name, the internal components are standard LG or Whirlpool parts. For the 400 and 500 series, you are looking for LG components. Just be careful with the control boards, as the software on a Kenmore board might be slightly different than the one on a standard LG branded machine.

Related Kenmore Washer Error Codes

Code: LEKenmore Washer LE Error Code: Motor Overload Fault Code: OEKenmore Washer OE Error Code: Drain Fault Code: 5dKenmore Washer 5d Error Code: Excess Suds Detected Code: HOW-TO-USEKenmore Washer How to Use: Settings, Cycles, and Detergent Guide

Same Fix on Other Brands

Lg washerLG Washer Error Codes Guide Maytag washerMaytag Washer Error Codes Guide

Models Known to Experience HUB Errors

This repair applies to most Kenmore washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

21302, 28133, 49032, 41162, 41272, 27132, 45862, 29232

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026