LG Dishwasher TE Error: Thermistor Error
LG dishwasher error — here’s what you need to know. The tE error code on your LG dishwasher indicates the thermistor (temperature sensor) is reading an implausible or out-of-range temperature. This is a Medium severity issue. What Does tE Mean on an LG Dishwasher? tE stands for “thermistor Error.” The thermistor is a small resistive […]
~75%
DIY Fixable
From $95
Typical Repair Cost
30 min – 1 hr
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. With a tE fault the dishwasher may overheat water or fail to heat it at all. Short-term use is unlikely to cause immediate damage, but sanitizing cycles will not work correctly and persistent overheating could damage plastic components.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A reset may temporarily clear tE if the fault was caused by a one-time sensor glitch. If the thermistor is genuinely failed, the code will return. Use the reset as a diagnostic step, not a fix.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Steam or extremely hot air comes from the vent during cycles — possible overheating., tE code returns within minutes of every reset..
Symptoms You May Notice
Wash Water Noticeably Cold or Excessively Hot
The dishwasher may run the heater continuously or not at all because the control board cannot get a reliable temperature reading from the faulty thermistor.
tE Code on Display
The control panel shows tE, usually during the wash or rinse phase when temperature monitoring is active.
Cycle Stops at the Same Point Every Time
The dishwasher reliably halts at the same point in the cycle — the moment the heater circuit is engaged and the control board first reads the thermistor.
Inconsistent temperature performance
The dishwasher runs too hot, too cold, or cycles erratically because the control board receives inaccurate temperature readings from the faulty sensor.
Possible Causes
Failed Thermistor Sensor
The thermistor component has drifted out of its calibrated resistance range or failed open/short, making its readings unusable by the control board.
DIY PossibleCorroded or Broken Thermistor Wiring Connector
Corrosion or a broken pin at the thermistor's plug connector interrupts the signal, which the control board reads as an open-circuit fault.
DIY PossibleControl Board Analog Input Failure
The thermistor input circuit on the main control board has failed, causing incorrect readings even from a good sensor.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Inspect the Thermistor Connector
With the dishwasher off and unplugged, locate the thermistor in the sump area. Unplug the connector and look for green corrosion, bent pins, or a broken locking tab. Clean lightly with electrical contact cleaner, reconnect firmly, and retest.
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2
Test Thermistor Resistance with a Multimeter
Disconnect the thermistor and measure resistance across its two terminals at room temperature (~68°F / 20°C). Most LG dishwasher thermistors should read approximately 10,000–15,000 ohms at room temperature. An open circuit (OL) or near-zero reading indicates a failed sensor.
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3
Perform a Hard Reset
After reseating the connector, reset the dishwasher by cutting power at the breaker for 10 minutes. Restore power and run a cycle on the Normal setting to see if tE returns.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermistor resistance is open circuit or near zero with new sensor still installed.
- Wiring harness between thermistor and board shows correct resistance end-to-end but board still logs tE.
- Control board thermistor input circuit tests faulty under load.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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