On the covered LG dryer platform, IF means the lint filter is not correctly assembled or is not detected — LG's own condition for this code. First, check the lint filter is correctly assembled and seated; LG notes it has two parts, an exterior and an interior filter, and both must be in place.
Differential
Likely causes of “LG dryer code IF”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A lint filter not assembled or seated
What separates it IF shows and the filter looks out of place
How to confirm LG says the lint filter has an exterior and an interior part; both must be assembled and in place
- 2
A missing filter magnet
What separates it The filter is in place and IF remains, which points to a missing filter magnet
How to confirm LG says the magnet in the interior filter may have fallen out during cleaning; without it the filter is not detected
- 3
A damaged magnet holder
What separates it The magnet cannot be seated, which points to a damaged magnet holder
How to confirm Purchase a new lint filter, as LG says
- 4
A sensor fault
What separates it Filter and magnet are fine, which points to a sensor fault
How to confirm LG says inspection will be required, and write down the result before moving to the next check
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: IF
- Whether both filter parts are assembled
- Note whether the magnet is present before you start troubleshooting
Try in this order
0 of 5 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleCheck the lint filter is correctly assembled and seated; LG notes it has two parts, an exterior and an interior filter, and both must be in place.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleCheck the magnet in the interior filter is in place — LG states it can fall out during cleaning and the filter cannot be detected without it. If the magnet is lost or its holder is damaged, a new lint filter is required.
Check the filter assembly
ReversibleEnsure the lint filter is correctly assembled (exterior and interior filter) and securely in place.
Check the magnet
ReversibleCheck the magnet in the interior filter is in its proper place; if it is lost or the holder is damaged, buy a new lint filter.
Request service
ReversibleIf IF persists despite no issue with the lint filter, LG says inspection is required.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- IF.
- Parts named
- Lint filter; filter magnet.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Do not run the dryer without a lint filter
- !Request service if IF persists with a good filter
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. LG's list is the only source for IF.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does IF mean on a LG dryer?+
the lint filter is not correctly assembled or is not detected — LG's own condition for this code.
What does IF mean?+
The filter is not detected; check it.
Why does the magnet matter?+
Without it the filter cannot be detected.
Is FO similar?+
Yes; FO or Insert Filter also concerns the filter.