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LG tE

LG Dishwasher Error tE: Thermistor Error — Temperature Sensor Fault

Clear meaning, realistic next steps, and safe guidance without turning the page into a long repair manual.

What it means

The dishwasher cannot read a valid temperature from the thermistor (temperature sensor). Without accurate temperature data, the machine cannot control the heating cycle and has stopped.

Severity

High - stop using the LG dishwasher until the cause is understood or professional help is arranged.

Can you fix it yourself?

No — call a technician

Most likely cause

Thermistor has failed — resistance value is out of range

Estimated time for safe first checks: Professional service required.

Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide

  1. SAFETY: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
  2. Reset by disconnecting power for 5 minutes, then restore power and test a wash cycle.
  3. If tE returns after the reset, call an LG-authorized technician for thermistor testing and replacement.

If the warning comes back after restart

  • If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
  • tE persists after a 5-minute power reset

What This Error Means

Error tE on your LG dishwasher means: The dishwasher cannot read a valid temperature from the thermistor (temperature sensor). Without accurate temperature data, the machine cannot control the heating cycle and has stopped. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused the current cycle.

The most frequent cause is thermistor has failed — resistance value is out of range (open or short circuit). Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most LG dishwasher errors are resolved without a service call.

LG's official guidance classifies tE as a technician-only fault. A 5-minute power reset is the only DIY step — if the code returns, contact LG Support at 1-800-243-0000.

Electronic and motor faults require professional diagnosis. A 5-minute power reset resolves transient faults. If the code returns after a reset, the physical component has failed and will not recover without replacement.

Most Likely Cause by Symptom

The LG dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.

Likely cause: Thermistor has failed — resistance value is out of range (open or short circuit)

Check first: SAFETY: Disconnect power at the circuit breaker.

The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.

Likely cause: Thermistor wiring harness loose or corroded — intermittent connection causing erratic readings

Check first: Reset by disconnecting power for 5 minutes, then restore power and test a wash cycle.

Common Causes

  • Thermistor has failed — resistance value is out of range (open or short circuit)
  • Thermistor wiring harness loose or corroded — intermittent connection causing erratic readings
  • Control board input circuit fault — the board cannot interpret the thermistor signal

What Not to Do

  • Do not attempt to test or replace the thermistor without a multimeter — guessing at the cause wastes money on parts that may not fix the problem

Model and Display Variation Notes

Model-family notes

  • LG dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
  • If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.

Display and panel differences

  • Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.

Parts, Tools and Service Options

Service option

LG service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.

Manual and model check

Check your exact model and manual before ordering any LG dishwasher parts.

Common parts

  • Thermistor/temperature sensor if sensor has failed ($15–$40)
  • Main control board if board input circuit is faulty ($80–$200)

This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.

When Not to Keep Troubleshooting

tE persists after a 5-minute power reset

How to Prevent It Recurring

  • Use a rinse aid and keep the dishwasher interior clean — a clean thermistor reads accurately and lasts longer

Related Error Codes

Extra notes

  • This page is based on LG support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
  • The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.

Source and model notes

Last reviewed: 2026-04-08

Based on: Based on LG support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.

View LG US Official Support

Model coverage note: LG dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.

Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.

Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.