Samsung Washer Error Code tE — Temperature Sensor Error
What this means
The tE error code means the temperature sensor (thermistor) in your Samsung washer is malfunctioning. The washer cannot accurately measure water temperature and will stop the cycle as a safety precaution. This is often caused by a faulty thermistor or loose wiring connection.
Alternate codes: tC, tE1, tE2, tE3
Step-by-step fix
3 stepsPower cycle the washer
Unplug the washer for 2 minutes. This can reset a temporary sensor glitch. Plug back in and try running a cycle.
If the error only appeared once, a power cycle often resolves it.
Check thermistor wiring
If comfortable with appliance disassembly, access the thermistor (usually located near the heating element at the bottom of the tub). Check that the wire harness connector is firmly seated — vibration can loosen connections over time.
Always unplug the machine first. Take a photo of wire positions before disconnecting anything.
Test the thermistor
Disconnect the thermistor and measure its resistance with a multimeter. At room temperature (~77°F / 25°C), it should read approximately 10,000 ohms (10kΩ). A significantly different reading means the thermistor is faulty.
Thermistor resistance changes with temperature — lower resistance at higher temps, higher at lower temps.
When to call a professional
If you don't have a multimeter or are uncomfortable accessing internal components, call a technician. The thermistor itself is inexpensive, but accessing it requires removing panels.
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.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Thermistor (Temperature Sensor)
Part #DC32-00007A · $8–$15
If thermistor reads outside normal range
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