Samsung Dishwasher LE Error Code: Motor Locked

Quick Answer

Samsung LE error code indicates wash motor failure or a locked rotor. On premium WaterWall models (DW80R9950US and similar), the motor drives the linear reflector bar rather than traditional spinning spray arms. A foreign object in the pump sump can physically lock the impeller.

In my experience, the LE code usually points to a physical jam rather than a fried motor. If you hear a brief hum followed by a click before the code pops up, something like a cherry pit or a piece of broken glass is likely wedged in the impeller. On WaterWall units, I often find the reflector bar has jumped its track, which puts too much strain on the drive motor and triggers this specific error.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: highDifficulty: advanced72% DIY Success

Time to Fix

60–180 min

Difficulty

advanced

Parts Cost

$100 – $180

Tools Needed

Multimeter, Phillips #2 screwdriver

What Does the LE Code Mean?

When I see LE on a service ticket, I immediately check the sump. It's Samsung's way of saying the wash motor is trying to turn but can't. While it might be a dead motor, it's more often a simple obstruction. You want to rule out a jammed reflector bar or a piece of debris before you spend money on a new pump assembly.

Most Likely Causes

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

Foreign object (broken glass, bone, pit) jammed in wash motor impeller40%

Wash motor bearings seized after extended use24%

Motor winding failure (open or shorted)22%

WaterWall reflector bar mechanism jammed or off track14%

Symptoms You May Notice

LE pops up right at the start of the wash cycle, sometimes within 60 seconds of pressing Start, before the machine has even finished filling.
A short buzzing or grinding sound, maybe 2-3 seconds, and then the machine stops dead and displays the code.
The door is completely dark during the cycle and you can tell no water is moving through the tub at all.
On WaterWall units, the reflector bar isn't sweeping back and forth like it normally does before the error locks the machine out.
The machine tries to start, pauses, tries again a couple times, then just gives up and stays locked with LE on the display.

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the LE code?

Press and hold Start or Cancel for three seconds to clear the display. If the code comes right back when you run a new cycle, a soft reset won't cut it. Flip the breaker off for five full minutes, then restore power and run a short rinse cycle while listening for the motor hum. Don't assume the reset fixed it without actually testing it. If you get LE again, there's still a physical problem that needs addressing.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterPhillips #2 screwdriverTorx T20 screwdriverNeedle nose pliersCut-resistant glovesFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

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

ComponentComponent Under Test

Expected Range4–6 ohms

ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

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	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Wash Motor AssemblyDD81-02095A · $100–$180	DD81-02095A	$100 – $180

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Samsung WaterWall technology and how does it affect LE?

The WaterWall system replaces the lower spray arm with a moving jet bar that travels the full length of the tub. It's a great design until a spoon falls through the rack and jams the mechanism. When that bar gets stuck, the drive motor stalls out and triggers the LE code. I always check the track for debris or obstructions before I even think about replacing the motor itself. On WaterWall units, a jammed bar is honestly the cause of LE probably 40% of the time I show up to one of these calls.

Is it worth replacing the wash motor on an older Samsung dishwasher?

I usually tell customers that if the dishwasher is under six or seven years old, it's worth fixing. The wash motor is a major component but it's way cheaper than buying a new machine and dealing with installation. If your Samsung is pushing ten years though, you might start seeing other issues like door seal leaks or control board problems soon, so a full replacement might actually be the smarter play. Get a quote on the repair first. If it's over half the cost of a comparable new unit, that's usually the tipping point.

Can I clear the LE code by resetting the dishwasher?

A power reset is like a Band-Aid. It might clear the error from the control board, but it won't fix a mechanical problem. If the LE code was caused by a one-time glitch, a reset will work fine and you'll probably never see it again. But nine times out of ten, that code is telling you there's a physical problem with the motor or a piece of trash in the pump that needs to come out. Clear the debris first, then do the reset. That sequence actually fixes things instead of just hiding the symptom.

How much does it cost to replace the wash motor on a Samsung dishwasher?

The part itself runs $120-180 depending on your model. Samsung OEM motors are pricier, aftermarket ones are cheaper but I've had mixed results with them on Samsung units specifically. Add labor and you're looking at $250-350 total for a professional repair, usually about an hour to an hour and a half of work. It's a doable DIY job if you're comfortable with appliance work. You'll need to pull the machine out, remove the kick plate, and access the motor from underneath. The wiring harness just unplugs, no special tools required for that part.

How do I know if it's a jammed impeller versus a completely dead motor?

The hum test tells you most of what you need to know. If you hear the motor try to start, buzz for a couple seconds, then quit, that's almost always a jam or seized bearing. The motor's getting power and trying to run but something is physically stopping it. If you hear absolutely nothing when the cycle starts, no hum at all, that points more toward a failed winding or a wiring problem. Either way, check for debris first. Takes two minutes and it's free. Motor replacement is $150 or more plus your time, so start with the easy stuff.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: 3CSamsung Dishwasher 3C Error Code: Motor Communication Fault Code: 9ESamsung Dishwasher 9E Error Code: Water Level Sensor Fault

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor Stall Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor Fault Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8E Error Code: Motor Frequency Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience LE Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DW80R9950US, DW80R2031US, DW80T5040US, DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026