How to repair an LG washing machine yourself

The LG direct drive washing machine is a technique that combines modern design, reliability, and maximum functionality.

But like any household appliance, a washing machine requires maintenance. Natural wear and tear of parts and operating errors lead to device failure.

Knowledge of the structure of a washing machine, as well as the most common breakdowns that can disable the device, will help you carry out high-quality home repairs with your own hands.

We will tell you about repairing an LG direct drive washing machine with your own hands below.

Basic malfunctions of LG washing machines

According to statistics, breakdowns of LG direct drive washing machines occur after five years of operation. To understand where to start troubleshooting, let’s look at how a direct-drive SM and a standard machine work.

Look at the diagram of the LG washing machine:

In the first case, the drum is rotated using a drive belt. In the second, the drum rotates the motor directly. This motor also does not have brushes, which constantly wear out. If there is a breakdown, you will immediately determine that the cause is in the motor, and not in the parts adjacent to it.

We have analyzed the principle of operation, now we will look at which nodes most often fail:

• Heating element (heating element). You notice that washing is done in cold water, the powder does not dissolve well and leaves streaks on clothes. You can verify that the heating element is faulty by measuring its resistance with a tester.
• Failure of the pressure switch. A pressure sensor monitors the amount of water in the tank: when it breaks, you may notice constant self-draining, or the system signals an overflow of water. You can repair and replace the sensor yourself.
• Bearings and seals. When the moving elements wear out, you will hear a rumble and noise when the washing machine operates. It’s easy to find out about this yourself: rotate the drum by hand, if you hear a grinding noise, it means the problem is in the bearings.
• Electronics often suffer from voltage surges. The main module rarely breaks down; wires and terminals burn out more often.
• Drain pump. Its design in the LG SMA is such that the drain system often becomes clogged. Therefore, if you notice that the washer is not draining water well, you need to check the pump.
• Problems with the inlet valve also occur. It is quite possible to repair the ElG washing machine yourself by replacing this element.

Step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting yourself

To remove and repair a faulty part, first determine the location of the pump, which depends on the manufacturer and model of the equipment (you can view instructions for disassembling washing machines of different brands here).

Location of the pump inside the device

In washing machines from LG, Samsung, Ardo, Indesit, it is easiest to get to the pump, since the part is located at the bottom. To get to it, just lay the car on its side, covering the floor so as not to scratch the body, or simply tilt it.

Disassembly and cleaning

The instructions for repairing the pump of a washing machine with your own hands look like this:

1. before removing the pump, the washing machine is disconnected from the electrical network;
2. the water supply is shut off before disassembly;
3. the machine is placed on its side so that the pump is at the top;
4. remove the protective panel on the bottom (if any);
5. Having unscrewed the screws on the bottom, remove the lower pan (if any) or unscrew the lower part of the front panel, gaining access to the pump with a filter attached with screws;
6. remove the pump protective cover;
7. then they feel the pipes, determining the presence of blockages, loosen the clamps, and pull them off the pump;
8. unscrew the fasteners holding the pump;
9. Disconnect the wiring and take the pump out.

If the pump is attached to the volute, it is disconnected from the pump by unscrewing the fasteners or turning it counterclockwise (depending on the model). At the same time, they determine how easily the impeller turns - it most often fails. A working impeller rotates irregularly due to the rotating magnet in the coil.

If the part rotates easily, without delays, or, conversely, movement is difficult and there is no debris inside, you will have to disassemble the pump. To do this, perform the following steps:

1. disconnect the impeller by prying the housing latches;
2. The crosspiece, which cannot be disassembled, is heated with a hairdryer at low temperature and pryed off with a screwdriver;
3. remove the magnet with the impeller, the part, and clean the joint;
4. the shaft is disconnected from the magnet, the bearing that appears is cleaned and lubricated;
5. the bearing located at the bottom of the housing is also lubricated;
6. worn gaskets, rubber seals are replaced with new ones;
7. assemble the pump, make sure that the o-ring fits tightly into place;
8. Don’t forget to inspect the oil seal and replace it if necessary.

Attention: Test the pump with a multimeter by placing probes on the pump contacts. The indicators “0” and “1” displayed on the screen indicate a malfunction of the unit and the need to replace it. We offer you to watch a video on how to check the pump of a washing machine:

We offer you to watch a video on how to check the pump of a washing machine:

Bearing replacement

The reason for the incorrect operation of the pump is not only the accumulation of debris and small objects. Bearings often fail, causing friction between the volute and the impeller, which causes noise and knocking to be heard during shaft operation. In advanced cases, the pump may stop completely.

The problem is eliminated by installing new elements, which are purchased at specialized points of sale and service centers that service household appliances (read about how to repair or replace bearings here).

If it is impossible to postpone the wash and a new part is not at hand, emergency measures are taken: the impeller blades are shortened by 2 mm. Do this with a sharp knife, carefully so as not to cut off too much and reduce the performance of the pump. Then the body with the blades is returned to its place in the coil and secured with latches. All that remains is to check the functionality of the repaired part.

After installing the pump and connecting the machine to the network, it will launch diagnostics and display the results on an electronic display. If the repair is performed incorrectly, an error code will appear on the display. If the car model does not have an information display, the test is carried out with a multimeter by connecting the probes to the contacts. A three-digit number indicates a malfunction of the electronic control module, a two-digit number indicates a malfunction of the pump.

We offer you to watch a video on how to replace a bearing in an LG washing machine:

Fault codes for the ElG washing machine

How can the user understand where exactly the LG washing machine broke down? There is a self-diagnosis system for this. If a problem is detected, the system displays ELG error codes on the display.

All you have to do is decipher the code and find the problem.

Now you know the meaning of errors and you can start repairing the automatic machine yourself. Let's look at typical malfunctions that can happen during operation of an LG washing machine.

LG machine won't turn on

For what reasons may the washing machine not turn on, how to troubleshoot a washing machine?

1. Check that the hatch door is securely closed. Press it tightly until it clicks.
2. Check the outlet - the voltage may be too low. To do this, connect another household appliance to it: if it works, then the problem is not in the network.
3. Inspect the washer cable and plug for damage. It may be necessary to isolate the defective areas, or better yet, replace the power cord.
4. Turn the inlet valve. If the water is turned off, the washing process cannot begin.
5. Lastly, the MCA wiring is inspected. To do this, remove the top panel of the machine by unscrewing the two screws at the back. Inspect the interference filter and its wiring at the time of the problem.

How to replace a surge protector

• After unplugging the washing machine and removing the top cover, you will see a filter at the top.
• Unscrew the filter mounting screws on the rear panel.
• Pick up the new part and alternately switch the wires from the faulty filter to the new one.
• Then secure it to the body with bolts.

Now you know how you can repair an LG washing machine with your own hands if the wiring breaks down.

Emergency opening

After the water leaves the tank, the automatic door lock is released. However, in the case of manual draining, it happens that the water has not completely drained and the water control sensor does not allow the lock to be opened.

It also happens that due to a failure in the software settings, the lock gets stuck and the door cannot be opened even if there is no longer any water in the drum. Sometimes the cause is a mechanical failure of the latch.

Manufacturers have provided such options, so you can deal with a stubborn lock yourself, without the help of service workers. You can read about them and the necessary algorithm of actions in the instructions for the device.

But before using these methods, the machine must be unplugged. If it was not possible to drain the water first, you need to make sure that a huge puddle does not form on the floor after the emergency measures taken.

Emergency opening rope

Many washing machines come with a cable that can be used to open a locked door. You can find it at the bottom of the device, next to the filter.

Usually this cable is made in a contrasting color, red or orange, so it is impossible not to notice it. To outwit the lock, you need to pull it smoothly, without jerking.

Opening with a cord

If there is no cable in the car, but you have a thin synthetic cord or strong fishing line at hand, you can try to open the car with their help. This method is a folk one, so the possibility of its use depends on the design of the lock.

This method of breaking the lock will only work if the lock tongue snaps towards the body of the machine. If the tongue is directed in the other direction - away from the body or up - it will not be possible to open the door using the cord.

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to understand exactly how the lock works when the door is closed, but if you don’t have time to wait for the locksmith and other methods don’t help, you can try this one. You will need to put the cord around the edges of the hatch around the entire perimeter and pull its ends up, as a result of which the cord will compress the latch and allow you to open the door.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=a9xm8uHm1Xc

Opening with a spatula

If you don’t have a cord at hand, but have a thin flexible spatula, you can use it. The principle of operation is the same as when opening the door with a cord. The end of the spatula must be inserted into the gap between the hatch and the car body and, pressing it, try to open the door.

Removing the panel

This method is practically fail-safe, but requires certain technical skills, tools and physical strength. In addition, to use it, you must drain the water from the unit by any available method. After there is no liquid left in the drum, the machine is disconnected from the network and the top cover is unscrewed.

In rare cases, the bolts can be removed using a standard screwdriver, but most often manufacturers secure the parts with special bolts, and to unscrew them you need to use TORX keys. The difficulty lies in the fact that even the presence of a key of the required model does not guarantee the ability to remove the bolts - their size may not fit the key model. Most often, manufacturers use the T15, T20 and T25 options.

Did the keys fit? Great. You need to carefully remove the top cover and then tilt the machine back slightly. This will allow the drum to move away from the hatch and make it easier to access the lock. After that, sticking your hand inside and pressing the latch is no longer difficult. When the door is open, the lid is returned to its place. But if you have doubts that you will be able to perform the described steps yourself, it is better to wait for the wizard.

Most methods of emergency interruption of washing and subsequent opening of the door are not only quite troublesome, but also unsafe for equipment. After pressing the “Start” button, the program installed in the machine begins to work and its sudden interruption is undesirable.

Of course, any manufacturer provides a certain safety margin in case of emergency situations, so a one-time intervention will most likely not cause harm to the equipment. But if you do this regularly, the electronic boards may fail, which will lead to a serious failure of the settings or a complete failure of the machine.

Therefore, it is worth asking yourself the question of how critical the situation is and whether emergency intervention is really required, since it can result in equipment failure and subsequent expensive repairs.

The water fills normally, but the wash does not start

You turned on the SMA, water was drawn in, but the washing still does not start. What is the reason?

1. The heater (heating element) is faulty. The water does not heat up, so the wash does not start. If you need to wash your clothes urgently, try choosing a low-heat wash cycle. This video will help you replace the element:

1. Failure of the pressure switch or thermistor. A faulty pressure switch does not signal that the optimal water level in the tank has been reached. If the thermistor fails, the module does not receive a message about the heating temperature. Elements need to be replaced.
2. The main module of the LG washing machine, which gives the machine components the command to start working, has failed.
3. LG direct drive washing machine motor malfunction.

For more information about the repair, watch the video:

Principle of operation

Washing begins with drawing water from the water supply. The electronic module sends a signal to the inlet valve, it opens and water flows into the detergent tray and tank. The pressure switch monitors the filling of the container and, after reaching a sufficient level, sends a corresponding signal to the module, after which the valve closes. Then the heating element turns on: it heats the water to a temperature corresponding to the selected program.

During the washing process, the drum rotates (changing direction and speed). Water with dissolved detergent flows from the tank through the holes, the laundry is mixed, rubbed against the grooved surface of the drum and thus gradually cleaned. During spinning, rotation occurs at maximum speed, centrifugal force helps remove most of the moisture from the laundry. Waste water from the tank is pumped into the sewer using a pump.

Most automatic washing machines operate on the general principle

This is the basic principle of operation of any traditional automatic washing machine. The differences lie in additional options and systems. For example, in units with a drying function there is an additional heating element that heats the air and a special fan that forces it into the drum. The drying process is carried out after the main washing cycle, and under the influence of hot air, the remaining liquid is condensed and removed from the items.

Units with the Eco Bubble function have a device installed between the dispenser pipe and the washing machine tank. When passing through it, the mixture of water and powder foams, and washing is carried out more efficiently.

There are many other additions to the basic principle of washing. Separately, it is worth dwelling on the design of a top-loading washing machine.

Water does not flow into the tank of the LG machine or flows too slowly

How to repair an automatic washing machine yourself:

1. Open the shut-off valve to full capacity. Perhaps it was blocked or not fully open.
2. Inspect the intake hose. It could have become bent or clogged.
3. The filter mesh is clogged with debris. It is located between the inlet hose and the valve - remove it and clean it.
4. There is a problem with the water supply valve. To inspect and replace it, you need to remove the top cover - the valve is located on top, near the wall. You need to test its contacts with a multimeter, and also check the membrane, which could be worn out. If there is a malfunction, install a new part.
5. If the pressure switch is broken, you can repair your LG washing machine yourself.

How to replace a pressure switch

• After turning off the SM, remove the top panel by unscrewing the fastening bolts.
• Disconnect the connectors from the pressure switch, unscrew the screws that secure it to the body.
• Remove the level sensor and disconnect the hose.
• Install the new part in reverse order.

Possible difficulties and ways to overcome them

When trying to disassemble an LG washing machine on their own, a person without experience may encounter some difficulties.

Tips to help overcome them:

1. If you have little experience working with household appliances, then it will be difficult to put the washing machine back together. In order to correctly connect all the wires and screw the parts, the entire disassembly process must be captured on a smartphone camera.
2. Sometimes when you remove the top cover it gets jammed. However, you should not pry it with sharp objects. The cover can be removed by short swings without applying excessive force.
3. If any metal parts are stuck or rusty, they can be treated with a lubricant such as WD-40.

Sometimes during the process of assembling a washing machine, people are faced with the fact that they cannot find suitable bolts, since there are many of them. To avoid such a problem, they can be placed in bags, making appropriate notes.

Drain not working in LG car

Causes:

1. Incorrect mode selection.
2. There is a blockage in the drain system (filter, pipe, pump).

How to fix problems with a Lji washing machine with your own hands? You need to check the drain pump. For this:

• Open the hatch and remove the clamp by bending the cuff to the side.
• Disconnect the door lock connectors and close the door.
• Remove water using a drain filter.
• After unscrewing the mounting bolts, remove the filter housing.
• Lift the top panel by removing the screws.
• Remove the dispenser tray.
• Unscrew the bolts behind the tray at the front and back.
• Remove the control panel by unfastening the latches.
• Remove the front panel screws. Take it away.
• Loosen the clamps of the circulation and drain hoses. Remove the hoses.
• Disconnect the pump hose clamps by loosening them.
• Remove the pump assembly bolts.
• Unclench the clamps and remove the pump.
• After unscrewing the screws, pull the pump out of the volute.
• Look for threads on the impeller that could interfere with operation.
• If there is a malfunction, install a new part.

Preventive Maintenance

Repairing a washing machine is always accompanied by nervous tension, hassle and worry. Especially when it is done with your own hands.

In order to avoid unnecessary troubles, you need to regularly perform preventative maintenance on your washing machine.

The video shows how the pump that pumps water out of the tank is cleaned. This pump must be cleaned after every wash.

Video:

In the same way, you need to clean and wipe dry the rubber seal between the drum and the door. Over time, deposits accumulate on the seal and it no longer performs its functions.

Experts recommend cleaning the tray for filling detergents. If you follow these simple recommendations, you will not need serious repairs to your washing machine in the coming years.

Compliance with the following recommendations will help extend the life of the unit.

Clean the detergent dispenser container of any clumps of powder. It is useful to sometimes unscrew the heating element (its shank sticks out of the tank in its lower part) and clean it of scale. In this case, the gasket must be changed to a new one each time.

Periodically clean the inlet and drain filters from dirt. It is also recommended to renew the grease on the oil seal from time to time if you are not afraid of the need to completely disassemble the washing machine to do this.

In each new model, developers will improve some system or several components. In order to avoid premature repairs, when installing and connecting the washing machine, you must strictly follow the rules set out in the operating instructions.

When loading items for washing, you should follow the recommendations for the volume and texture of fabrics. Before starting operation, it is advisable to take the time to read the user manual from the manufacturer.