Temperature sensor
Common error-code part. Confirm resistance and connector style.
The E64 error on a Frigidaire dryer is a diagnostic signal: the control board tried to read the temperature sensor (thermistor) and got no signal — an open circuit. Without temperature feedback, the dryer won’t heat because it can’t regulate temperature safely. The thermistor itself is a small, inexpensive component and is very DIY-friendly to replace.
Quick Reference Table
| Code | Meaning | Severity | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|
| E64 | Thermistor circuit open — temperature sensor failure | Medium | Yes |
What a Thermistor Does
A thermistor is a temperature-dependent resistor. As the air in the dryer gets hotter, the thermistor’s resistance drops in a predictable curve. The control board reads this resistance value continuously and uses it to cycle the heating element on and off. When the circuit is “open” (broken), the board reads infinite resistance — which it interprets as a catastrophically high temperature or a sensor failure — and disables heating as a safety measure.
Before You Start
You’ll need:
- A multimeter
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- 30–60 minutes
Always unplug the dryer before opening it up.
Step-by-Step Fix
Step 1 — Power Reset First
Before assuming a hardware failure:
- Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes.
- Plug back in and run a short timed cycle.
If E64 clears, a transient fault caused it. If it returns, proceed to hardware diagnosis.
Step 2 — Locate the Thermistor
The thermistor on most Frigidaire dryers is located on the exhaust duct inside the machine — either near the heating element housing or on the blower exhaust path.
- Unplug the dryer.
- Depending on your model: remove the back panel (screws along the perimeter) or the front panel.
- Look for a small component with two wires clipped or screwed to a duct or element housing. It often looks like a small plastic cylinder or disc.
Step 3 — Test the Thermistor
- Disconnect the thermistor’s wire harness connector.
- Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
- Touch probes to the two thermistor terminals.
- At room temperature (68–70°F), a healthy Frigidaire thermistor typically reads 10,000–12,000 ohms (10–12 kΩ).
- An open circuit (OL or infinite resistance) = the thermistor has failed.
- A short circuit (near 0 ohms) = the thermistor has failed in the other direction.
Either reading outside a reasonable range means replacement is needed.
Step 4 — Check the Wiring Harness
Before ordering a new thermistor, check the wiring:
- Inspect the connector for corrosion, burned contacts, or a loose pin.
- Trace the wires from the thermistor back to the control board connector. Look for any pinched, burned, or broken wire — a break in the wire will show as an open circuit even if the thermistor itself is fine.
- Repair any damaged wiring with heat-shrink butt connectors before declaring the thermistor at fault.
Step 5 — Replace the Thermistor
Thermistor replacement is straightforward:
- The thermistor is typically secured with a single screw or a snap clip.
- Remove the securing screw or clip.
- Disconnect the wire harness.
- Connect the new thermistor’s harness connector and secure it in position.
- Reassemble panels, plug in, and run a test cycle.
Step 6 — Check the High-Limit Thermostat
While you’re in there, test the high-limit thermostat (a separate flat disc-shaped component near the heating element). This component cuts power to the heater if it overheats. If it’s tripped, it can cause E64 on some Frigidaire models because the circuit appears open.
- Test for continuity: a healthy thermostat reads near 0 ohms.
- No continuity = thermostat has blown and needs replacement.
Parts you may need:
- Frigidaire Dryer Thermistor Temperature Sensor
- Dryer High-Limit Thermostat Replacement
- Digital Multimeter for Appliance Testing
- Butt Connector Wire Repair Kit
Reset the Error
After repair:
- Plug the dryer back in.
- Select a Timed Dry cycle for 10 minutes.
- Confirm heat is produced — the drum should feel warm within 2–3 minutes.
- E64 should not reappear.