LG Dryer Error Code tE2 — How to Fix (Thermistor Open Circuit)

Fix LG Dryer error tE2 with a step‑by‑step guide. Learn how to test and replace the thermistor, clear codes, and avoid future problems.

⏱️ Time30‑45 minutes

📋 DifficultyMedium

🔧 Model(various models)

⚠️ ErrortE2

What Does Error Code tE2 Mean?

Error tE2 on your LG Dryer means: The tE2 code tells the dryer’s control board that the temperature sensor (thermistor) is reporting an open circuit. In plain English, the dryer thinks the sensor is missing or broken, so it shuts off heating to protect the drum and the electronics.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
T20 Torx screwdriver
Digital multimeter with continuity function
Needle‑nose pliers
Contact‑cleaner spray
Safety gloves

🛒 Parts

LG dryer temperature sensor (thermistor) – 10 kΩ NTC
Thermistor connector housing (optional replacement)
Heat‑resistant zip ties (for wiring tidy‑up)

How to Fix Error tE2 — Step by Step

1

Power‑off and safety check

Turn off the dryer at the wall outlet or shut the dedicated circuit breaker. Wait at least 60 seconds before touching any internal parts. This fully discharges the control board and protects you from electric shock.

💡 Pro Tip: Wear insulated gloves and keep a dry cloth on your lap to avoid accidental contact with metal.
2

Quick power reset

Plug the dryer back in, turn it on, and start a short cycle. If the tE2 code disappears, note the result and continue watching the dryer for a few cycles. A lingering code means you’ll need to move on to hardware checks.

💡 Pro Tip: A reset often clears a transient voltage spike that can falsely trigger the sensor error.
3

Remove the front panel

Using a Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two screws at the top of the panel. Switch to the T20 Torx screwdriver for the two screws near the bottom. Gently pull the panel forward and set it aside.

💡 Pro Tip: Place the screws in a small magnetic tray so they don’t get lost.
4

Locate the thermistor

The thermistor is a small black cylinder mounted on a metal bracket at the rear of the drum. It is connected to a two‑pin black connector. Take a quick photo of the wiring before you disconnect it.

💡 Pro Tip: If your model has a plastic cover over the sensor, remove it by unclipping the small tabs.
5

Test the thermistor for continuity

Set the multimeter to the continuity or resistance mode. Disconnect the black connector and touch the probes to the two sensor terminals. At room temperature a healthy thermistor reads between 2 kΩ and 4 kΩ. The reading should rise smoothly as the sensor warms.

💡 Pro Tip: If the meter shows “OL” (open circuit) or a wildly fluctuating value, the sensor is bad and must be replaced.
6

Inspect the connector and wiring

Even a good thermistor can fail if the connector is corroded or the wires are loose. Look for black residue, bent pins, or frayed insulation. Use needle‑nose pliers to straighten pins and spray the contacts with contact‑cleaner.

💡 Pro Tip: After spraying, blow dry air across the connector to evaporate any moisture.
7

Replace the thermistor (if needed)

Remove the retaining clip or screw that holds the thermistor to the bracket. Pull the sensor out, noting its orientation. Install the new thermistor in the same spot, re‑attach the connector, and secure the clip.

💡 Pro Tip: Match the part number on the old sensor with the replacement. Most LG dryers use a 10 kΩ NTC thermistor, but verify the label on your unit.
8

Re‑assemble and run a test cycle

Snap the front panel back into place, reinstall all screws, and restore power. Load a small batch of towels and start a normal drying cycle. The dryer should heat within the first few minutes and the tE2 code should stay cleared.

💡 Pro Tip: Let the dryer run for at least 10 minutes; some controllers need a brief warm‑up before they register a stable temperature reading.
9

Clear any remaining error codes

If the display still shows a code, press and hold the ‘Signal’ button for about 5 seconds (or follow the model‑specific method in the user manual) to erase stored faults.

💡 Pro Tip: A cleared code that returns after a few cycles points to a deeper electrical problem; see the ‘When to Call a Pro’ section.
10

Optional: Verify the heating element

If the dryer still does not produce heat after a new thermistor is installed, test the heating element for continuity. Disconnect power, locate the element terminals, and measure resistance. A typical element reads 20‑40 Ω. An open or shorted element requires replacement.

💡 Pro Tip: When swapping the element, also inspect the high‑limit thermostat and thermal fuse; both protect against overheating.

When to Call a Professional

Call a qualified technician if the dryer still won’t heat after you’ve replaced the thermistor and inspected the connector, if the tE2 code returns repeatedly, or if you notice burning smells, tripped breakers, or a drum that won’t turn. These symptoms often indicate a faulty control board, heating element, or a short in the high‑limit thermostat.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Follow this visual guide to systematically diagnose Error tE2:

Diagnostic Flowchart — tE2

The LG Dryer error tE2 can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of a laundry cycle. This error code indicates that the dryer’s control board is not receiving a signal from the temperature sensor, also known as the thermistor. As a result, the dryer shuts off heating to prevent damage to the drum and electronics.

What LG Dryer Error tE2 Actually Means

The tE2 error code is related to the temperature sensor circuit. The thermistor is a critical component that monitors the temperature inside the dryer drum. It sends this information to the control board, which uses it to regulate the heating element. When the control board detects an open circuit or a faulty thermistor, it displays the tE2 error code. In technical terms, the error occurs when the thermistor’s resistance exceeds a certain threshold (usually around 100 kΩ) or falls below a minimum value.

The thermistor itself is usually a small, black cylindrical component mounted on a metal bracket near the drum. It’s a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistor, meaning its resistance decreases as the temperature increases. A faulty thermistor can cause the dryer to malfunction or not heat properly.

Rapid Diagnosis Guide

Before calling a professional or investing time in complex repairs, perform these quick checks:

Power cycle: Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Turn on the dryer and start a short cycle to see if the error persists.
Check the front panel: Ensure the front panel is securely fastened and not loose, as this can cause issues with the thermistor connector.
Inspect the lint filter: A clogged lint filter can cause temperature issues; clean or replace it if necessary.

Why This Error Appears (Top Causes)

Here are the common causes of the LG Dryer error tE2, ranked by likelihood:

1. Faulty Thermistor

Description: The thermistor has failed or is damaged, causing an open circuit.
Verification: Use a multimeter to test the thermistor for continuity. A good thermistor should show around 10 kΩ resistance at room temperature.
Fix difficulty: Medium
Cost: $20-$50 (thermistor replacement)

2. Corroded or Loose Thermistor Connector

Description: The connector between the thermistor and the control board is corroded or loose.
Verification: Inspect the connector and clean it with contact-cleaner spray if necessary.
Fix difficulty: Easy
Cost: $0 ( DIY) or $20-$50 (professional labor)

3. Broken or Damaged Wiring

Description: A wire connecting the thermistor to the control board is broken or damaged.
Verification: Inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or wear.
Fix difficulty: Hard
Cost: $50-$100 (wiring repair)

4. Control Board Issues

Description: The control board is faulty or has a software issue.
Verification: Try resetting the control board or replacing it if necessary.
Fix difficulty: Hard
Cost: $100-$200 (control board replacement)

5. Dryer Installation Issues

Description: The dryer was not installed correctly, causing issues with the thermistor circuit.
Verification: Check the installation manual and ensure all connections are secure.
Fix difficulty: Medium
Cost: $50-$100 (re-installation)

Step -Step Fix for the Most Common Cause

The most common cause of the LG Dryer error tE2 is a faulty thermistor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to replace it:

Safety warning: Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet and ensure it’s completely powered off.

Tools needed: Phillips #2 screwdriver, T20 Torx screwdriver, Digital multimeter with continuity function

Time estimate: 30-60 minutes

Remove the front panel: Using a Phillips #2 screwdriver, remove the two screws at the bottom of the front panel. Gently pull the panel forward and remove it.
Locate the thermistor: The thermistor is usually mounted on a metal bracket near the drum. Use a flashlight to locate it.
Test the thermistor for continuity: Set the multimeter to the continuity or resistance mode. Touch the multimeter leads to the thermistor terminals. A good thermistor should show around 10 kΩ resistance at room temperature.
Remove the thermistor: Use a T20 Torx screwdriver to remove the screw holding the thermistor in place. Gently pull the thermistor out of its bracket.
Install the new thermistor: Mount the new thermistor in the bracket and secure it with the T20 Torx screw.
Reconnect the thermistor connector: Ensure the connector is securely fastened to the thermistor.
Re-assemble and run a test cycle: Snap the front panel back into place, reinstall all screws, and plug in the dryer. Run a short test cycle to ensure the error is cleared.

What Differs Between Models

The LG Dryer error tE2 can occur on various LG dryer models, but some are more prone to this issue:

LG TROMM dryers (2007-2012): These models are more likely to experience thermistor issues due to a design flaw.
LG Smart ThinQ dryers (2015-present): These models have a more advanced control board and may require software updates to resolve the issue.

How Much Does This Fix Cost?

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated repair costs:

Repair option	DIY cost	Parts cost	Professional labor
Thermistor replacement	$10-$20	$20-$50	$50-$100
Thermistor connector repair	$0	$10-$20	$20-$50
Wiring repair	$20-$50	$50-$100	$100-$200
Control board replacement	$50-$100	$100-$200	$200-$300

Stop This Problem Before It Starts

To prevent the LG Dryer error tE2 from occurring:

Regularly clean the lint filter: A clogged lint filter can cause temperature issues.
Check and clean the thermistor connector: Ensure the connector is secure and clean.
Run a cleaning cycle: Run a cleaning cycle every 1-2 months to remove lint and debris.

Should You Repair This Yourself?

If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs or if the issue persists after trying the above steps, it’s time to call a professional:

Symptoms: The error persists after trying the above steps, or the dryer is not heating properly.
What to expect: A professional technician will diagnose the issue, provide a quote, and perform the repair.
Cost: Expect to pay $50-$200 for labor, depending on the complexity of the repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the LG Dryer error tE2:

Q: What causes the tE2 error code on my LG dryer? A: The tE2 error code is usually caused by a faulty thermistor or a corroded/loose thermistor connector.
Q: Can I fix the tE2 error code myself? A: Yes, you can try to fix the error code yourself by replacing the thermistor or cleaning the connector. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, it’s best to call a professional.
Q: How much does it cost to replace the thermistor? A: The cost of replacing the thermistor can range from $20-$50, depending on the model and brand.
Q: Can I use my dryer with the tE2 error code? A: No, it’s not recommended to use your dryer with the tE2 error code, as it can cause further damage to the drum and electronics.
Q: How can I prevent the tE2 error code from occurring? A: Regularly cleaning the lint filter, checking and cleaning the thermistor connector, and running a cleaning cycle can help prevent the error code.

For more information on LG dryer errors, check out our articles on LG Dryer error dE, LG Dryer error d80, or LG Washing Machine error FE.

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