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ErrBase

Samsung Washer TE Error Code: Thermistor Fault

Quick Answer

TE means the water temperature sensor reading is implausible. The control board cannot confirm water temperature and disables the heating element as a safety measure. The thermistor is a small, inexpensive sensor.

TE means the water temperature sensor reading is implausible. The control board cannot confirm water temperature and disables the heating element as a safety measure. The thermistor is a small, inexpensive sensor. Test it with a multimeter at room temperature: a good thermistor reads approximately 25,000 ohms at 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Values far outside that range indicate a failed sensor.

SamsungWasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate88% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $20
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Phillips screwdriver

What Does the TE Code Mean?

TE is almost always a thermistor failure. The sensor is inexpensive and easy to replace. Confirm the reading is out of range before ordering parts, since a disconnected harness gives the same TE code.

Most Likely Causes

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

Thermistor NTC sensor failed (open or short circuit)40%
Thermistor wiring harness disconnected or corroded24%
Control board thermistor input circuit failed (rare)22%
Water intrusion into thermistor body from a seal failure14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • TE code appears at wash cycle start
  • Machine runs cold cycles only or refuses to heat water
  • Warm or hot wash settings produce cold water

Can you reset a Samsung washer to clear the TE code?

Unplug for 60 seconds after replacing the thermistor. TE will not clear with a reset alone if the sensor is still failed.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterPhillips screwdriver

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Unplug the washer and locate the thermistor

Unplug the washer and locate the thermistor. On front-load models it is typically mounted in the sump or near the heater assembly at the bottom rear. On top-load models it is in the water path near the pump.

2

Check the thermistor wiring harness connector

3

With the washer unplugged, disconnect the thermistor connector

4

Replace thermistor DC32-00007B

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 SensorDC32-00007B · $10–$20

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $15 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does TE mean my Samsung washer's heater element has failed?
Not necessarily. TE is a temperature sensor (thermistor) fault, not a heater fault. The heater element is separate. A failed thermistor disables heating as a safety measure. Replace the thermistor first; test the heating element only if TE clears but water still does not heat.
What should a Samsung washer thermistor read at room temperature?
Approximately 25,000 ohms (25k ohms) at 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). The resistance drops as temperature rises. If your multimeter reads much higher or lower, or reads OL (open), the sensor needs replacement.
Can I run my Samsung washer with a TE code by selecting cold wash?
Many models will run cold wash cycles with TE active since no heating is required. However, the error will remain stored and warm or hot cycles will not function until the thermistor is replaced.

Related Samsung Washer Error Codes

Code: LESamsung Washer LE Error Code: Water Level Sensor Fault

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor StallSamsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water SupplySamsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience TE Errors

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

WF45R6100AW, WF45T6000AW, WF45R6300AW, WF50R8500AV, WF45H5200AW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026