Kenmore Washer Code UE – Troubleshooting Guide

If you have ever received a UE error code on your Kenmore in the middle of a wash, it can be a bit unsettling. Any error code during washing comes as a bit of a shock, but what does it mean, and what should you do about it?

A UE error code on both front-load and top-load Kenmore washers means that the washing machine cannot enter the spin cycle. This is typically due to an imbalance of the load, in which the washer can sometimes fix itself, but this isn’t always the case. 

A UE error code can temporarily put a halt to your laundry routine, and leaving it unchecked has the potential to cause serious damage to your washer. The good news is, this is often a quick fix. Below, we will go over what to expect when you get this code, what to do about it, and how you can prevent it from happening in the future. 

What Does Kenmore Washer Code UE mean?

In general, a UE error code on a Kenmore washer means that the washer is unbalanced and isn’t able to run the spin cycle. If you see this code, the washer’s control board has determined that there is an imbalance within the spin basket, therefore preventing the spin cycle from happening. 

Read: Kenmore Washer Troubleshooting Guide

What is the difference between code uE and uE? 

Depending on your model, you may see a uE code before the UE shows up. UE and uE error codes both have to do with an imbalance within the washer stopping the spin cycle, but they mean slightly different things. 

If you see a uE code on your washer, it means that an imbalance has been detected, and the washer is cycling through a rebalance routine. During this process, the washer attempts to restore balance by adding water to the basket to help redistribute garments. 

Your Kenmore washer will try to correct itself 3 times. If the washer is not able to correct itself after the third try, it will display the UE error code. 

A UE code is telling you that rebalancing could not be achieved. This is when you would have to get involved and figure out the cause for the error. 

What Caused the UE error code?

Though fixing a UE error code is often as simple as manually redistributing the clothes in the spin basket, there are several reasons why this error can occur. 

The Size of the Washer Load is Too Big or Too Small

Believe it or not, the number of items you put into your washer matters. If your loads are too big or too small, this can create an unbalanced load, triggering the UE error code. 

Garments are Unbalanced Inside the Basket

Items like heavy coats, sheets, blankets, and towels can get balled up and tangled during washing and weigh down one side of the spin basket. If the control board senses that there is an imbalance in the basket, it will stop the spin cycle. 

The Washer isn’t Balanced

If your washer is vibrating more than normal, it could be an issue with stability. Excess shaking and rocking can cause damage to your washer and trigger the UE error code, so it’s important to make sure that your washer is on stable ground. 

To check this, firmly press down on the top corner of the washer. If it rocks, then the machine isn’t stable, and you should adjust the legs according to the directions in your owner’s manual. 

Your Washer Has a Broken or Faulty Part

Another possible cause for the UE code could be that your machine has a broken part. Depending on the model of your washer, the main parts to check are the suspension rod, shock absorber, and control board. If any of these parts are broken or damaged, your washer won’t be able to enter the spin cycle, triggering the UE error. 

What To Do About Error Code UE?

If you get a UE error on your Kenmore washer, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the basket for an unbalanced load. Make sure the basket isn’t too full and that the garments aren’t all sitting to one side. If they are, redistribute them. Once you’ve done that, restart the washer in the Rinse/Spin mode. 

If your garments are sitting loosely and evenly distributed and you’re still getting a UE error, you may have a part that needs to be repaired or replaced. 

Unplug the washer, remove the top panel, and take a look. Remember that the components in your washer vary by model, so check your manual to figure out what you should be looking for. You can also call a service technician to take a look if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for or how to repair it. 

Read: Here Is Why Washing Machine Shaking Too Much During Spin Cycle?

How to Prevent Code UE On Your Kenmore Washer?

The UE washer code is one of the most common error codes that users experience. It’s also fairly simple to prevent. Below are some common tips for keeping your Kenmore washer balanced so you can avoid triggering the UE code. 

• Avoid washing single items. If you have a particularly small load, try adding a few towels or pillowcases to the basket to help the washer balance out the items. 
• For larger loads, add items to your washer just until the basket is full. Garments should sit loosely, allowing for movement. Avoid packing, and when in doubt, opt for a second load. 
• Check for shaking and rocking. Any extra vibration during the spin cycle has the possibility to trigger the UE code, so make sure your washer is stable.
• Set the washer to bulky for larger items such as rugs, blankets, sheets, jackets, or pillows.
• Reduce the spin speed to low for smaller loads. 

Read: Top Reasons Why Washing Machine Shakes The Whole House

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, these troubleshooting tips helped to clear the UE code and solve the unbalancing issue of your Kenmore washer. If the error code continues to show up, it may be best to take a peek at your owner’s manual or call in a service technician for repairs.