Samsung Dryer Error Code tE: Troubleshooting Guide

The Logic Verdict

My Take: The tE error is almost exclusively a bad thermistor (temperature sensor). It’s a cheap part (usually under $20), but getting to it can be a pain. As the video shows, on many Samsung models, the thermistor is located on the blower housing deep inside the machine. You often have to remove the front panel and drum to reach it. If you’re handy, it’s a $20 fix. If not, it’s a service call.

What It Means

The tE code (often displayed as tE3, tE4, tC, or 1 tC) stands for Thermistor Error. The main control board is not receiving a valid resistance reading from the temperature sensor. This means the dryer doesn’t know how hot it is, so it shuts down for safety.

Common Causes

1. Failed Thermistor: The sensor itself has gone bad (open or shorted).
2. Wiring Issue: A loose connection or broken wire between the thermistor and the control board.
3. Clogged Vent: Chronic overheating from a clogged vent can damage the thermistor over time.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. The “Easy” Access Check

Before tearing the whole dryer apart, check if you can reach the thermistor from the bottom.

• Unplug: Disconnect power.
• Remove Lower Panel: Take off the small panel at the bottom front (if your model has one).
• Reach In: The thermistor is usually on the blower housing (the plastic fan case). If you can reach it, you can swap it without removing the drum.
• Note: Most newer models require full disassembly as shown in the video.

2. Disassembly (Standard Method)

If you can’t reach it from the bottom, you’ll need to open the machine.

• Top Panel: Remove the screws at the back and slide the top lid off.
• Control Panel: Remove the screws and carefully unsnap the control panel. Set it aside (you don’t always need to unplug it fully, just hang it carefully).
• Front Panel: Remove the screws securing the front door panel. Disconnect the door switch wire.
• Drum Removal: Remove the front bulkhead. Reach under the drum to release the belt from the idler pulley. Lift the drum out.

3. Replace the Thermistor

With the drum out, you have “unlimited access” to the blower housing.

• Locate: Look for the small sensor with two wires on the blower housing (usually near the bottom left).
• Remove: Unplug the wire harness and remove the single Phillips screw.
• Replace: Install the new thermistor, secure the screw, and reconnect the wire.

4. Reassemble

• Belt: This is the tricky part. Loop the belt around the drum, then reach under and thread it around the motor pulley and idler pulley (tensioner).
• Bulkhead & Panels: Reinstall the front bulkhead, front panel, control panel, and top lid.
• Test: Plug it in and run a cycle to confirm the tE error is gone.

The Logic Verdict

My Take: The video author notes: “Is your Samsung dishwasher giving you problems? Lets get it into diagnostic test mode so we can see if there’s an error code.” In my experience, you should start by following the visual inspection steps shown in the video.

What It Means

The tE code (or tE1, tE2, tE3) stands for Thermistor Error. The dryer’s temperature sensor (thermistor) is sending resistance values that are out of range (too hot or too cold).

Common Causes

1. Clogged Lint Screen/Vent: Restricts airflow, causing heat spikes.
2. Dirty Moisture Sensors: Lint buildup on the metal bars inside the drum.
3. Faulty Thermistor: The sensor itself has failed (common on older units).
4. Loose Wiring: Vibration has loosened the wire harness.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Safety First: Unplug the appliance before performing any inspection.
2. Visual Inspection: Check for loose wires, leaks, or obvious damage.
3. Diagnostic Mode: If applicable, enter diagnostic mode to see if other codes appear.
4. Consult Video: Follow the specific disassembly steps demonstrated in the guide.

Resources

• Repair Parts for tE (Amazon Search)
• Amazon Product (Amazon)