Kenmore Dryer Error Code F3 E2 — Inlet Thermistor Short Circuit
What this means
The F3 E2 error code on Kenmore dryers indicates the inlet thermistor has a short circuit — reading much lower resistance than expected. The sensor element has likely failed internally. The dryer may overheat or not heat at all, as the control board misinterprets the shorted reading as an extreme temperature.
Alternate codes: F3E2
Step-by-step fix
3 stepsAccess and locate the inlet thermistor
Unplug the dryer. Access the inlet thermistor on the heater housing or air inlet area. The location varies by model.
Refer to your tech sheet (inside the control panel or behind the lower front panel) for the exact sensor location.
Test the thermistor
Disconnect the sensor wires. Test resistance — should be 10,000–50,000 ohms at room temperature. A reading near 0 confirms a short. Also check each wire to the dryer frame (should be open — no continuity to ground).
A short to ground (wire touching the dryer frame) will also read as a low resistance and trigger this code.
Replace the inlet thermistor
Remove and replace the sensor. Ensure the new sensor is mounted properly and the wires are routed away from the heater and any sharp edges.
After replacement, run a short timed cycle and monitor the dryer for proper heating and cycling.
When to call a professional
If the sensor and wiring check out but the code persists, the control board may have a damaged sensor input.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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