Kenmore Dryer Moisture Sensor & Thermistor Replacement Guide — What This Part Does
The moisture sensor measures fabric dryness in automatic cycles by detecting conductivity across two metal bars behind the lint screen. The thermistor measures air temperature in the blower housing or exhaust path and sends a resistance signal to the control board to regulate heat. These are two separate components that work together to control drying time and temperature.
The moisture sensor fails when the metal bars corrode, break, or accumulate lint and fabric-softener residue that blocks conductivity. The thermistor fails when its internal resistance drifts out of specification (normal reading is approximately 11.9 kΩ at 70°F) or the wiring harness develops an open or short. A defective moisture sensor causes the dryer to stop too early or run indefinitely. A bad thermistor can prolong or shorten drying time and may trigger fault codes, but it does not cause a no-heat condition by itself.
Signs It Needs Replacing
- Cycle stops before clothes are dry The dryer finishes an automatic cycle but the load is still damp or wet because the moisture sensor is not detecting fabric moisture correctly.
- Dryer runs continuously without stopping The automatic cycle never ends even when clothes are completely dry, indicating the sensor cannot detect the change in moisture level.
- Drying time much longer or shorter than normal The thermistor sends an incorrect temperature signal to the control board, so the cycle timing and heat regulation are off.
- Fault code on display related to sensor circuit The control board detects an open, short, or out-of-range reading from the thermistor or moisture sensor wiring.
- No continuity across moisture sensor bars Testing the sensor with a multimeter shows an open circuit, confirming the sensor has failed internally or a bar is broken.
- Thermistor resistance reading far from 11.9 kΩ at room temperature The thermistor measures significantly higher or lower than the normal specification at 70°F, indicating internal drift or damage.
How to Replace It
- Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or shut off power at the circuit breaker before any disassembly or testing.
- Remove the lint screen and unscrew the filter housing or top grill panel to access the moisture sensor bars, which are mounted on or near the lint trap opening.
- Disconnect the wiring harness from the moisture sensor terminals and test for continuity with a multimeter; if there is no continuity, the sensor needs replacement.
- Remove the mounting screws or clips holding the sensor assembly or metal bars in place and pull out the old sensor.
- Install the new moisture sensor by securing it with the original screws or clips, ensuring the metal bars are clean and properly positioned for fabric contact.
- For thermistor replacement, remove the lower front panel or rear blower housing cover (depending on your model) to access the thermistor probe in the air path.
- Disconnect the thermistor harness connector, remove the retaining screw or bracket, and pull the old thermistor from its mounting grommet or clip.
- Insert the new thermistor in the same orientation and location, secure it with the retaining hardware, and reconnect the harness plug.
- Reassemble all panels and housing covers, restore power, and run a timed dry cycle followed by an automatic cycle to verify proper sensor operation and normal cycle completion.
The Part You Need
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Kenmore dryer moisture sensor bars / sensor assembly | Amazon | Find your exact part number on the model and serial plate inside the dryer door opening or on the rear panel, then cross-reference with the manufacturer’s parts diagram. |
| Kenmore dryer thermistor | Amazon | Verify your model number and platform (many Kenmore dryers are built by Whirlpool) to order the correct thermistor, which should read approximately 11.9 kΩ at 70°F. |
Related Error Codes
If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:
- Kenmore Dryer F01 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F20 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F22 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F23 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F26 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F28 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F29 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F30 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F31 error code
- Kenmore Dryer F70 error code
When to Call a Pro
If you have tested both the moisture sensor and thermistor and found them in specification, or if replacing them does not correct the drying complaint, the control board or internal wiring harness is likely at fault and requires advanced diagnostic equipment and board-level troubleshooting. Similarly, if you are uncomfortable working with the blower housing or accessing internal sensor locations, a qualified appliance technician can perform resistance testing, check for wiring opens or shorts at the control board connector, and confirm the correct repair before replacing parts.