LG Dryer tE1 Error Code: What It Means and How to Fix It
Updated · from manufacturer service documentation
The tE1 code on an LG dryer means the temperature sensor (thermistor) circuit is open — the control can't get a valid reading from it. Per the service documentation, this is diagnosed with a specific resistance-vs-temperature test at the thermistor's connector, not just a simple pass/fail check.
What Causes the tE1 Code
| Cause | Likelihood | DIY difficulty | Related part |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermistor connector (NA6) not properly connected | Most common | Easy — check connector | Thermistor connector |
| Wiring harness between the thermistor and controller disconnected | Common | Moderate — check harness | Wiring harness |
| Thermistor resistance out of range for current air temperature | Less common | Moderate — resistance test | Thermistor assembly |
| Controller fault | Rare | Pro repair | Controller |
How to Fix the tE1 Error, Step by Step
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Turn off power and discharge voltage before testing
Per the service documentation, contact the metal power cord plug to ground to discharge before doing any resistance measurements.
-
Check the NA6 connector and controller connection
Confirm the 6-pin connector is properly connected to the controller — a loose or disconnected connector here is the first documented check.
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Test the thermistor's resistance against the reference table
After separating the harness from the thermistor assembly connector, measure resistance between terminals and compare it to the documented resistance-per-temperature table (e.g., specific values for 50°F, 60°F, 70°F, 80°F ambient air). A reading outside the expected range for the current temperature confirms a failed thermistor.
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Check the harness-linking connector if the thermistor itself tests good
A disconnected or damaged harness between the thermistor and controller can produce the same tE1 symptom as a failed sensor.
-
Replace the thermistor or the controller based on which test failed
If resistance is out of range, replace the thermistor; if the connector/harness checks out but the fault persists, the controller may need replacing.
Which Models This Applies To
Documented for the LG DLEX3570/DLEX4270 dryer series. tE1 (thermistor open) and tE2 (thermistor shorted) are a paired code family diagnosed with the same Test 2 resistance procedure — a separate code, tE4, covers a different thermistor (the "AG" sensor) failing open or shorted. Entering the Diagnostic Test Mode (unit in standby, press POWER while holding MORE TIME and LESS TIME) also lets you manually step through and see tE1/tE2 reported directly.
See also: LG dryer not drying · LG dryer d90.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between tE1 and tE2?
tE1 means the thermistor circuit is open; tE2 means it's shorted. Both are tested with the same resistance procedure at the thermistor connector.
Is tE1 the same as the moisture sensor error?
No — tE1 is specifically about the temperature sensor (thermistor). The moisture sensor has its own separate display readout (a number below 180 is normal, 255 means low moisture detected, 30 means high) and its own diagnostic.
How do I test the thermistor myself?
With the dryer unplugged and voltage discharged, separate the harness from the thermistor connector and measure resistance between the terminals, comparing the reading to the documented resistance-per-temperature table.
What is tE4?
A related but separate code — it covers the "AG" thermistor (a different sensor) being open or shorted, not the same physical part as tE1/tE2.
Based on the LG DLEX3570 and DLEX4270 dryer service documentation. Last updated: .