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ErrBase

Whirlpool Dishwasher E4 Error Code: Thermistor Fault

Quick Answer

E4 on a Whirlpool dishwasher points to the NTC thermistor (temperature sensor) reporting an out-of-range value. The thermistor resistance varies with water temperature: at room temperature expect 10-50k ohms depending on actual water temp. A reading of OL (open circuit) means the sensor element has broken; a reading near 0 means it has shorted.

E4 on a Whirlpool dishwasher points to the NTC thermistor (temperature sensor) reporting an out-of-range value. The thermistor resistance varies with water temperature: at room temperature expect 10-50k ohms depending on actual water temp. A reading of OL (open circuit) means the sensor element has broken; a reading near 0 means it has shorted. The thermistor is a cheap, accessible part at $12-22 (OEM W10057581) and is the correct first replacement before condemning the control board.

WhirlpoolDishwasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–45 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$12 – $22
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Flathead screwdriver

What Does the E4 Code Mean?

The water temperature sensor returned a value the DTM control board considers impossible. Test the thermistor resistance before replacing any other component -- it is a $12 part that resolves E4 in the majority of cases.

Most Likely Causes

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

Failed NTC thermistor (open or shorted element)40%
Thermistor connector corroded or unplugged24%
Control board thermistor input circuit failure (rare)22%
Extremely cold incoming water triggering an out-of-range reading14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • E4 displayed before or during wash cycle
  • Dishes not cleaned properly due to no temperature feedback
  • Heated dry not working correctly
  • Cycle may abort early or skip heating phase

Can you reset a Whirlpool dishwasher to clear the E4 code?

Hold Cancel/Drain for 3 seconds after replacing the thermistor. Power cycling the unit (unplug for 60 seconds) ensures the control board re-reads the new sensor values on the next cycle.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterFlathead screwdriver

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Disconnect power

Disconnect power. Locate the thermistor in the sump area at the tub bottom (a small 2-wire sensor clipped into the sump wall). Disconnect its connector and measure resistance across the two pins with a multimeter set to 20k or 200k ohms.

2

If the thermistor reads in range

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 ThermistorW10057581 · $12–$22

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $17 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does thermistor resistance vary so much (10-50k ohms)?
NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises. At cold water temps (15C/59F) resistance is near 50k ohms; at hot wash temps (65C/149F) it drops to around 10k ohms. Always measure at a known temperature and compare to the spec curve.
Can I run my dishwasher with E4 showing?
Technically the machine may complete cycles, but without accurate temperature feedback the control board cannot guarantee proper wash or sanitize temperatures. Dishes may not be fully cleaned or sanitized.

Related Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: E2 F2Whirlpool Dishwasher E2 F2 Error Code: Water Temperature Too LowCode: F7 E1Whirlpool Dishwasher F7 E1 Error Code: Heater Circuit FaultCode: F4 E3Whirlpool Dishwasher F4 E3 Error Code: Thermal Fuse Fault

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

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Models Known to Experience E4 Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WDT780SAEM, WDF550SAHZ, WDT730PAHZ, WDT750SAHZ, WDT970SAHZ, WDF518SAHM, WDT720PADE

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026