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ErrBase

LG Washer TE Error Code: Temperature Sensor Troubleshooting

Quick Answer

TE means the water temperature sensor in your LG washer is giving the control board a reading it cannot use. The sensor itself costs under $20 and takes 20 minutes to replace. Test it first with a multimeter - a working thermistor reads 10,000-12,000 ohms at room temperature (68F/20C).

TE means the water temperature sensor in your LG washer is giving the control board a reading it cannot use. The sensor itself costs under $20 and takes 20 minutes to replace. Test it first with a multimeter — a working thermistor reads 10,000-12,000 ohms at room temperature (68F/20C). If resistance is wildly different or reads open circuit, replace the thermistor. Also check the wiring harness connector first since a loose connection causes the same symptom.

LgWasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $20
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Phillips screwdriver
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temperature sensor failure
WhirlpoolF3E1

What Does the TE Code Mean?

LG washers use an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor to monitor wash water temperature. The sensor's resistance decreases as temperature increases. The control board uses this reading to regulate heater operation. When the board receives a resistance value outside the expected range (either open circuit or a fixed reading that never changes), it throws TE.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Failed NTC thermistor (open circuit or out-of-range resistance)40%
Corroded or loose wiring harness connector to thermistor24%
Main control board not reading the thermistor signal correctly22%
Thermistor housing cracked causing water intrusion and short14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • TE displayed, cycle paused or stopped
  • Washer starts cycle then stops when heat is needed
  • Cold water wash works but hot or warm cycles fail
  • TE appears at start of heated cycle

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterPhillips screwdriverNeedle-nose pliers

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Check the wiring harness connector first

Unplug the washer. Access the rear of the drum by removing the back panel. Locate the thermistor (small sensor with 2-wire connector, usually clipped onto the heater tube or rear drum area). Disconnect and reconnect the wiring connector firmly. Look for green corrosion or pushed-back pins inside the connector housing. A loose connection causes the same symptom as a dead sensor. Reconnect, reinstall, and test before buying a part.

2

Test thermistor resistance at room temperature

3

Replace the thermistor

4

Check control board thermistor circuit

ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range10000–12000 ohms at 68F/20C
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
NTC Thermistor / Temperature Sensor6322FR2046H · $10–$20

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $15 (Parts) vs $550 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still wash with TE showing?
You can run cold water cycles if the washer allows it. TE prevents the control board from activating the heater element since it cannot verify safe water temperature. Avoid hot or warm cycle settings until the thermistor is replaced — unregulated heating without sensor feedback can overheat the wash water.
What resistance should an LG washer thermistor read?
At room temperature (68F/20C): 10,000 to 12,000 ohms. The resistance drops as temperature rises — at 140F/60C it reads approximately 2,000-2,500 ohms. If you measure outside these ranges or get an open circuit (OL), the thermistor has failed.
Where is the temperature sensor on LG front-loaders?
On most LG front-load washers, the thermistor is clipped to the heater assembly tube at the bottom rear of the outer tub. Access it by removing the back panel. It connects via a 2-pin wiring harness and clips into a plastic bracket — no screws needed for removal on most models.

Related Lg Washer Error Codes

Code: HUBLG Washer Error Codes: Full ListCode: DIAGLG Washer Diagnostic ModeCode: RESETHow to Reset an LG Washer

Same Fix on Other Brands

Whirlpool washerF3E1: Whirlpool Washer F3E1: Temperature Sensor Error

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Lg shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience TE Errors

This repair applies to most Lg washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WM3700HWA, WM4000HWA, WM5000HVA, WM3900HBA, WM6998HBA, WM8100HVA, WM3470HWA, WM1333HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 13, 2026