OEM vs Aftermarket Drain Pump for LG Washer: Honest Comparison (4681EA1007A)

Your LG washer won't drain, and you're staring at a standing pool of water in the drum. The OEM pump from LG costs $180–$240 depending on where you look. The aftermarket version? $105.99. That's a $75–$135 difference for what looks like the exact same motor assembly. So what are you actually giving up with the aftermarket part?

I've installed both versions on machines like the WT1201CW and WT4870CW dozens of times. Here's what actually matters when you're choosing between OEM and aftermarket for this drain pump motor assembly.

Quick Answer

The aftermarket 4681EA1007A performs identically to OEM for drain pump failures on LG and Kenmore washers. Unless you need same-day warranty service through LG (rare), the aftermarket version saves you $75–$135 with the same functional outcome. The pump motor is the pump motor — both spin water out at the same rate.

Side-by-Side Comparison

When OEM Makes Sense

There are three situations where I'd tell you to spend the extra money on the OEM LG pump:

Your washer is still under manufacturer warranty. If you're within LG's original warranty period, using an OEM part keeps everything clean with their service department. You won't void anything, and if something else fails, they can't point fingers at your aftermarket pump.

You're a technician billing a commercial client. Some property management companies or commercial laundries have contracts that specify OEM parts only. If that's in your paperwork, you don't have a choice here — even though the performance is identical.

You need the LG logo for resale value. If you're flipping appliances or running a used appliance store, some buyers get weird about seeing unbranded parts when they open the cabinet. It's psychological, not functional, but it's real.

Outside those three cases? You're paying for a sticker and slightly shinier plastic housing.

When Aftermarket Wins

For the vast majority of DIY repairs and even most service calls, the aftermarket pump is the smarter buy.

The pump motor doesn't care about branding. This assembly has one job: spin an impeller at 3600 RPM to push water out of the tub. Both versions use the same electrical specs (0.5A draw), same mounting bracket design, and same hose connections. The water drains at the exact same rate.

You get better warranty coverage. Heima's one-year warranty beats LG's 90-day parts warranty by a significant margin. If the pump fails (rare, but it happens), you're covered longer with the aftermarket version.

It's in stock when you need it. OEM parts often sit on backorder for 3–7 days while LG routes it through their dealer network. The aftermarket version ships in 2–3 days because parts suppliers keep them warehoused. When you've got a washer full of wet clothes, that timing matters.

I've installed this exact aftermarket pump on models ranging from the WT1101CW to the WT7200CW. It bolts in with the same four screws, connects to the same wire harness, and clamps to the same drain hoses. You literally cannot tell the difference once it's installed except by opening the cabinet and reading the label.

Our Verdict

Save the $75–$135 and go aftermarket. The OEM pump doesn't drain water any better, last any longer, or fit any tighter than the Heima version. You're paying for brand markup on a commodity part. Put that money toward the next repair — because if your drain pump failed, your door lock or pressure switch might not be far behind on an older LG washer.

The only exception: if you're under warranty or have a specific contractual requirement for OEM parts. Otherwise, this is an easy call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the aftermarket pump work on Kenmore washers built by LG?

Yes. The Kenmore 796.3151321 series (and similar models) are rebadged LG washers. They use the exact same drain pump assembly. The 4681EA1007A aftermarket pump is a direct fit for these Kenmore models.

How do I know if my drain pump actually failed vs. a clogged hose?

Run a drain cycle and listen. A failed pump is completely silent — no hum, no vibration, nothing. A working pump with a clog will hum or buzz but won't move water. Also check the small debris filter (usually behind a panel at the bottom front). If that's clogged, your pump is probably fine.

Does the aftermarket pump come with the wire harness connector?

Yes, the complete motor assembly includes the connector that plugs into your washer's existing wiring. You don't need to splice or modify anything. It's a direct plug-and-play replacement just like the OEM version.