Most likely causes
- Unbalanced load. A single bath mat, a comforter or a pair of jeans alone cannot balance. The washer tries to redistribute, shows UE, then gives up spinning.
- Water still in the tub. An LG washer will not spin until it drains. If there is water in the drum, see LG washer not draining.
- Worn suspension. Front loaders use shock absorbers; top loaders hang the tub on four suspension rods. When they wear, every load is "unbalanced."
- Rotor position sensor (LE). On LG direct-drive washers a small sensor on the stator tells the board where the rotor is. When it fails the drum twitches and LE appears.
- Motor. A stator winding fault or broken rotor magnet also gives LE.
- Top load clutch actuator. If the washer agitates but never spins (or clicks at the start of spin), the shift actuator may be stuck — sometimes logged as E6.
Safe checks
- Redistribute the load or add 2–3 towels to a heavy single item. Run Rinse + Spin.
- Check the washer is level and all four feet touch the floor.
- New installation? Make sure the shipping bolts were removed (front load).
- With power off, turn the drum by hand — it should turn smoothly.
When to call
UE on every load, LE, drum twitching, grinding, or a top loader that agitates but never spins. See front load washer repair or top load washer repair.
Typical costs
Rotor position sensor $180 – $290 · Shocks / suspension rods $180 – $350 · Shift actuator $180 – $370 · Stator $280 – $530. Totals include the $75 service call.
LG washer not spinning questions
Why does my LG washer say UE?
The washer cannot balance the load. Redistribute clothes, avoid washing one heavy item alone, and level the washer. If UE appears on normal mixed loads, the suspension is likely worn.
Why does my LG washer drum twitch but not spin?
That is typical of a failed rotor position (hall) sensor, which usually also shows LE. It is a relatively inexpensive repair.