LG · Washing Machine
LG Washing Machine tE Error Code
Thermistor reading out of range
What this error means
tE is a Thermistor Error. The NTC sensor that reports wash water temperature sent a resistance value outside the expected range—open circuit, short, or a reading that never changes during heated cycles.
How TE is detected
LG washing machine models lock the door or lid before energizing fill, heat, or high-speed spin. TE means the latch switch never sent a "locked" signal to the main control, or the lock motor did not complete its travel. On LG WM3900HWA, LG WM4000HWA, and similar variants, clothing caught in the gasket, a misaligned strike, or a failed latch assembly are the most common mechanical causes—not the board itself.
Inspect the door gasket perimeter and strike alignment before replacing the latch. Thermistor connector loose at the tub or heater assembly is reported frequently on this code. After correcting mechanical issues, unplug the washer and inspect the two-wire connector on the tub thermistor. If the latch clicks but TE persists, the door lock switch or wiring harness to the control board likely needs testing with a multimeter.
Do not force the door open during an active cycle; wait for the lock to release when the board de-energizes the lock motor—usually two to three minutes after canceling power on most LG units.
Common causes
- Thermistor connector loose at the tub or heater assembly
- Damaged sensor wire rubbing against the tub during spin
- Failed NTC thermistor element
- Heater circuit fault causing erratic temperature feedback
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Unplug the washer and inspect the two-wire connector on the tub thermistor
- 2Reseat the connector and check wires for burn marks near the heater terminals
- 3Run a warm wash and carefully feel door-glass temperature mid-cycle
- 4Power-cycle and retry—occasional tE can clear after a single board reset
When to call a technician
Technicians compare thermistor ohms against the LG service chart at room temperature; replacement is needed if readings are open.
Affected models
- LG WM3900HWA
- LG WM4000HWA
- LG WM8100HVA
Prevention & maintenance
- Wipe the door gasket weekly and avoid overloading items against the seal—TE often starts as a slow leak or latch misalignment.
- Record when TE appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your LG washing machine—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for TE; LG uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting TE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.