LG Dryer TE2 Error: Secondary thermistor sensor error
LG dryer error — here’s what you need to know. The tE2 error code on your LG dryer indicates Thermistor Error – Temperature Sensor Fault During Steam or Cold Operation. This is a Medium severity issue. What Does tE2 Mean on an LG Dryer? The tE2 code signals that one of the dryer’s thermistors — […]
~50%
DIY Fixable
From 0
Typical Repair Cost
30 – 60 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A faulty thermistor means the dryer cannot accurately monitor temperature. Continuing to use it risks overheating the drum, the heating element, or the exhaust duct — all of which are fire hazards.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A power reset may temporarily clear the code if the fault was a transient signal issue. If tE2 returns during the next cycle, professional thermistor diagnosis is required.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: tE2 returns every cycle immediately after a power reset, confirming the thermistor has failed and temperature monitoring is unreliable., The dryer drum or exhaust vent is noticeably hotter than usual, suggesting the faulty thermistor is allowing overheating..
Symptoms You May Notice
Dryer stops mid-cycle and feels much hotter or cooler than normal
The thermistor is responsible for regulating heat — a faulty sensor may allow the drum to overheat before the code triggers, or the dryer may run cold if the sensor reads an abnormally high temperature.
Steam cycle fails to start or stops early
On steam-equipped models, tE2 during a steam cycle indicates the steam thermistor cannot confirm proper steam temperature, so the cycle is aborted as a safety measure.
tE2 appears on the display and cycle pauses
The control board halts the active cycle and displays tE2 when the thermistor reading falls outside the acceptable temperature window for the selected program.
Error appears only in cold ambient conditions
If the dryer is installed in a garage or unheated space and tE2 appears in winter but not in summer, very cold inlet air is causing the thermistor to read below the minimum operating threshold.
Possible Causes
Failed or drifted thermistor
The thermistor's resistance value has shifted outside the manufacturer's specification due to age or heat damage, causing the control board to interpret it as an out-of-range temperature.
Requires ProfessionalLoose or damaged thermistor wiring harness
A loose connector or broken wire at the thermistor terminal introduces resistance that mimics an out-of-range temperature reading to the control board.
Requires ProfessionalVery cold ambient installation temperature
LG dryers are rated for operation above 45°F (7°C). Temperatures below this threshold cause thermistors to read as though the dryer is dangerously cold, triggering a fault.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Power reset the dryer
Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes, then reconnect power and attempt to restart the cycle. A temporary thermistor signal glitch can sometimes be cleared by a full power reset.
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2
Check the ambient temperature of the installation space
If the dryer is in a garage or cold utility room, measure the air temperature with a thermometer. If it is below 50°F (10°C), allow the space to warm up or bring the dryer to a warmer location before running a cycle.
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3
Check steam water supply for steam models
On steam dryers, confirm the water supply hose is connected to the inlet valve and the household water supply valve is fully open. A blocked water supply prevents steam generation and can cause the steam thermistor to read incorrectly.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Thermistor resistance measured at room temperature (77°F/25°C) falls outside the model-specific specification range, confirming sensor failure.
- The thermistor wiring harness connector shows corrosion, bent pins, or a broken wire at the sensor terminal.
- A replacement thermistor is installed but tE2 persists, pointing to a control board fault in the temperature monitoring circuit.
Need Professional Help?
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