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ErrBase

Kenmore Washer LE Error Code: Motor Overload Fault

Quick Answer

LE on a Kenmore 400 or 500 series washer (LG platform) means the motor is locked or overloaded. The most common cause is washing an oversized load that the motor cannot turn, followed by stator winding damage. Remove the load and try a smaller test load first.

LE on a Kenmore 400 or 500 series washer (LG platform) means the motor is locked or overloaded. The most common cause is washing an oversized load that the motor cannot turn, followed by stator winding damage. Remove the load and try a smaller test load first. If LE appears on an empty drum, the stator assembly or inverter board has likely failed. Stator assembly part number varies by model but runs $50-100. The inverter board runs $60-120. This is the same fault as LG washer LE code.

KenmoreWasherSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate80% DIY Success
Time to Fix
45–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$50 – $120
Tools Needed
Phillips head screwdriver, Socket wrench set (for rotor center bolt)
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motor locked
LgLE

What Does the LE Code Mean?

Your Kenmore washer's motor is locked or overloaded. Start by reducing the load size. If LE appears with an empty drum, the stator winding or inverter board has failed.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Stator winding damage causing motor to draw excessive current40%
Drum overloaded with too many items preventing motor from turning24%
Inverter board failure preventing proper motor drive signal22%
Foreign object lodged between drum and tub halves locking rotation14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • LE displayed mid-cycle or during spin
  • Drum does not rotate when cycle starts
  • Motor hums briefly then stops and LE triggers
  • Burning smell coming from the motor area
  • Washer worked fine until an unusually large load

Can you reset a Kenmore washer to clear the LE code?

Unplug the washer for 60 seconds after clearing the overload condition or completing a repair. Plug back in and run a Rinse and Spin cycle to confirm motor operation before running a full wash cycle.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Phillips head screwdriverSocket wrench set (for rotor center bolt)MultimeterNeedle-nose pliersFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Confirm this is a 400 or 500 series model (model number starts

Confirm this is a 400 or 500 series model (model number starts with 796). Then reduce the current load to just 3-4 items and run a test spin cycle. LE triggered by overloading will clear immediately when the load is reduced.

2

Unplug the washer and manually rotate the drum by hand through

3

Access the stator by removing the back panel

4

Locate the inverter board mounted on the back of the washer near

5

Replace the stator assembly

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Stator Assembly4417EA1002Y · $50–$100
Inverter BoardEBR62707619 · $60–$120

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $85 (Parts) vs $650 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LE and OE on a Kenmore washer?
LE is a motor fault - the drum motor is locked or overloaded and cannot rotate. OE is a drain fault - the washer cannot remove water from the drum. LE typically triggers during the wash or spin phase. OE typically triggers at the end of the wash or rinse phase when the drum should be draining.
Can I fix Kenmore LE by just washing smaller loads?
If the LE was caused by an oversized load, yes. Reduce your load size and the code will not return. However, if LE appears on a normal or small load, the stator winding or inverter board has failed and the load size adjustment will not help.
Is the stator the same as the motor on a Kenmore 400 series washer?
Not exactly. The motor system on LG-platform Kenmore washers uses a direct-drive design with two main components: the rotor (the permanent magnet ring) and the stator (the winding assembly that generates the magnetic field). The stator is the part that commonly fails and is replaced independently, not the entire motor.
Are LG washer stator parts compatible with my Kenmore 400 series?
Yes. Kenmore 400 and 500 series washers are LG-manufactured. LG OEM stator parts with the correct part number are fully compatible. Always match the part number to your specific Kenmore model number rather than cross-referencing by series alone.
How long does stator replacement take on a Kenmore washer?
With the washer pulled away from the wall for back-panel access, stator replacement takes approximately 45 to 75 minutes. The rotor comes off with one center bolt. The stator ring is held by 6 to 9 bolts arranged in a circle. Photograph the wiring connections before disconnecting them.

Related Kenmore Washer Error Codes

Code: HUBKenmore Washer Error Codes GuideCode: OEKenmore Washer OE Error Code: Drain Fault

Same Fix on Other Brands

Lg washerLE: LG Washer LE Error Code

Models Known to Experience LE Errors

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

21302, 28133, 49032, 41162

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026