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Samsung Washing Machine Error Code tE

⚠ Medium Severity 🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Also shown as: tE1, tE2, tE3

Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

The temperature sensor in the washer has failed or is reading an implausible temperature. The washer cannot safely heat water without an accurate temperature reading, so it stops the cycle.

💰 DIY cost: $15–$35 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $150–$280 Save $135+ by doing it yourself

What Does Error Code tE Mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?

Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault.

The temperature sensor in the washer has failed or is reading an implausible temperature. The washer cannot safely heat water without an accurate temperature reading, so it stops the cycle.

What Causes Error Code tE?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Faulty or disconnected NTC thermistor 65% of cases
  2. 2
    Wiring harness connector loose at thermistor 20% of cases
  3. 3
    Short circuit in temperature sensor wiring 15% of cases

How to Fix Samsung Washing Machine Error Code tE

🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Est. time: 30–60 min
⚡ Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Check thermistor wiring connector

    Locate the thermistor (usually mounted on the heater assembly inside the tub). Check that the wiring connector is firmly seated.

    ⚠️ Unplug the washer first.
  2. 2

    Test thermistor resistance

    At room temperature (~68°F/20°C), a healthy Samsung thermistor should read approximately 6,000–7,000 ohms. A reading of 0 or infinite indicates failure.

    🔩 Multimeter
  3. 3

    Replace the thermistor

    Thermistors are inexpensive and easy to replace. Disconnect the connector, unscrew the sensor, and install the new one.

    🔩 Samsung NTC thermistor ($15–$35)

How to Reset Error Code tE

After replacing the thermistor or reseating the connector, unplug the washer for 1 minute, then restart to clear the error.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

When to Call a Professional

If thermistor tests good and connector is secure but the error persists, the main control board may have failed.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150–$280

Related Error Codes

HE
Water heater error — water not heating to target temperature
⚠ High Severity

Same Code on Other Brands

Error code tE appears on these other brands too. Click to compare:

LG logo
LG Dishwasher tE
Temperature sensor failure

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Samsung Washing Machine:

🔩
Search PartSelect
Samsung Washing Machine repair parts
🔧
Search RepairClinic
Step-by-step video guides

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code tE mean on a Samsung Washing Machine? +
Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault
How do I fix error code tE on my Samsung Washing Machine? +
Start by Locate the thermistor (usually mounted on the heater assembly inside the tub). Check that the wiring connector is firmly seated.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code tE? +
After replacing the thermistor or reseating the connector, unplug the washer for 1 minute, then restart to clear the error.
Is error code tE serious? +
Medium severity. The appliance may still operate but the issue should be resolved to prevent further damage.
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