Samsung Washer tE Error Code — What It Means
The tE error code on your Samsung washer indicates a temperature-sensing fault in the wash cycle. The control board cannot read valid data from the thermistor (temperature sensor) mounted on the tub or heater assembly. This typically means the sensor itself has failed, reads out of range, or the wiring harness between the sensor and the control board is open, corroded, or making intermittent contact. The washer will not heat water reliably or may refuse to run until the fault is cleared.
Common Causes
- Failed thermistor or temperature sensor The sensor assembly has drifted out of tolerance or developed an open circuit, so it no longer reports accurate resistance values to the board.
- Broken or loose wiring at the sensor connector Vibration, previous service work, or age has pulled terminals, cracked conductors, or loosened locking tabs in the harness plug.
- Corroded or poor connector contact Moisture infiltration or oxidation at the plug causes high resistance or intermittent open-circuit readings.
- Mechanical damage to the sensor assembly The sensor mounting bracket has shifted or the sensor body has cracked, causing the element inside to fail or lose contact.
- Control board input fault If the sensor and harness both test good, the control board’s thermistor input circuit may have failed.
Step-by-Step Fix
- {‘step’: ‘Disconnect power and water. Unplug the washer, turn off the hot and cold supply valves, and drain any standing water from the tub before accessing internal components.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Access the temperature sensor. Depending on your model, tilt the washer back or remove the rear panel to reach the tub and heater area where the sensor is mounted.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Inspect the sensor connector and harness. Unplug the thermistor connector and look for pulled terminals, broken wires, corrosion, or loose locking tabs that would cause an open circuit.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Test the thermistor with a multimeter. Let the sensor stabilize near room temperature, set your meter to resistance, and measure across the two terminals. At 68°F (20°C) expect approximately 66 kΩ, and at 86°F (30°C) approximately 37 kΩ. Resistance should drop smoothly as the sensor warms.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Replace the sensor if out of range. If resistance is infinite, zero, or does not match the published table, install a new temperature sensor assembly and reconnect the harness.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Repair the harness if the sensor tests good. Re-pin damaged terminals, splice broken wires, or replace the harness section between the sensor and control board as needed.’}
- {‘step’: ‘Reassemble and test. Restore water and power, run a warm or hot wash cycle, and verify the tE code does not return and the washer heats normally.’}
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Temperature sensor / thermistor assembly | Amazon | Common Samsung part number DC90-10128N. Verify compatibility with your model before ordering. |
| Wire harness connector or repair kit | Amazon | Use if the sensor tests good but terminals are corroded or pulled. Match the plug style and pin count. |
When to Call a Pro
Call a technician if you are uncomfortable working with a multimeter, cannot safely access the sensor area, or if the sensor and harness both test within specification yet the code persists. Persistent faults after parts replacement usually point to a control board input issue that requires board-level diagnosis or replacement. Professional service also makes sense if your washer is still under warranty or if you lack the tools to verify resistance curves accurately.