Kenmore Washer Error Code UE: How to Fix It

The Logic Verdict

I watched Mr. Washington tear into a Kenmore Elite (LG-built) top loader that flashed uE/UE on every load—even empty test spins. He released the top panel to inspect all four suspension springs, tried the PVC spacer trick, and still saw the error. When he tipped the washer back and spun the basket by hand, he noticed a wobble: the rotor/basket bolt underneath had backed out. Once he tightened that bolt, the basket tracked true, spin cycles finished normally, and UE stopped appearing.

What It Means

UE (or uE) is the control’s unbalanced load alarm. The board pauses to redistribute the clothes, but if the tub hardware is loose, it never sees a stable spin speed and keeps timing out with UE.

Common Causes

• Loose rotor/basket bolt. A single bolt ties the inner tub to the motor rotor; when it loosens, the basket wobbles even when empty.
• Tired suspension springs. Stretched or broken springs let the tub pogo violently and trigger repeat UE faults.
• Bulky, uneven loads. Comforters and rugs clumped on one side can still cause legitimate UE, so always verify the load after hardware repairs.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Unplug and pop the lid. Slide a putty knife under each front corner to release the clips, then lift the top to inspect the four suspension springs. Healthy springs rebound once instead of bouncing wildly.
2. Rule out bad springs. Replace any that feel mushy or allow the tub to oscillate excessively. If the suspension looks good, move to the drive hub.
3. Tip the washer back. Lean the cabinet against the wall or lay it carefully on its back so you can reach the rotor/basket bolt under the tub.
4. Check for wobble. Rotate the inner basket while watching the hub. A visible wiggle or finger-loose bolt means the basket is slipping on the rotor shaft.
5. Tighten or replace the bolt. Hold the rotor and snug the bolt clockwise with a wrench. Add a drop of blue thread locker, or swap in a new bolt if the threads are stripped.
6. Test the spin. Stand the washer upright, plug it back in, and run Drain & Spin empty. If UE stays away, run a medium load to confirm the fix.

Parts & Tools

• LG 4040FR4051C rotor bolt (fits Kenmore 796-series top loaders)
• Blue medium-strength thread locker for the rotor bolt

Resources