The tE error on your LG washing machine indicates a fault with the temperature sensor. The machine monitors water temperature throughout the wash cycle to heat it accurately to the selected programme temperature. When the temperature sensor reports a value that is impossible or outside the expected range, the control board stops the cycle and displays tE. This error almost always points to the NTC thermistor or its wiring rather than the heater itself.
What Does the tE Error Mean?
tE stands for thermistor Error (temperature sensor error). LG washing machines use a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistor mounted in the drum or heater assembly to measure water temperature in real time. The resistance of an NTC thermistor drops predictably as temperature rises — the control board reads this resistance and converts it to a temperature. If the resistance is open-circuit (broken wire), short-circuit, or outside the valid operating range, the board interprets this as a sensor failure and shows tE.
Common Causes of the tE Error in LG Washing Machines
- Failed NTC thermistor: The thermistor element itself can burn out, corrode or break internally due to age or exposure to extreme temperatures, giving an open-circuit or short-circuit reading.
- Loose or corroded wiring connector: The two-wire connector linking the thermistor to the main control board can loosen over time through vibration, breaking the measurement circuit intermittently.
- Damaged wiring harness: The wires running from the sensor to the control board can chafe against the drum or cabinet and develop short circuits or open breaks.
- Water ingress into the sensor connector: If water leaks near the thermistor connector, corrosion can build up on the terminals and increase resistance enough to push readings out of range.
How to Fix the tE Error: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Reset the washing machine
Turn off and unplug the machine for 2 minutes, then restart. This clears temporary software glitches that can trigger false error codes. If the tE error does not return, the fault was transient — possibly a brief power spike affecting the sensor reading.
Step 2: Locate the temperature sensor and check the connector
The NTC thermistor is usually located inside the machine near the heater element at the bottom of the drum (accessible through the front panel or from underneath). With the machine unplugged, locate the two-wire connector on the thermistor and press it firmly to ensure it is fully seated. Check the pins for corrosion and clean gently with a dry cotton bud if needed.
Step 3: Inspect the sensor wiring for damage
Trace the wiring from the thermistor back to the control board. Look for any visible chafing, pinching or melting of the insulation. If wires are damaged, they need replacement by a technician — do not attempt to tape damaged high-voltage adjacent wiring.
Step 4: Test the thermistor with a multimeter
Disconnect the thermistor connector. Set a multimeter to resistance (Ohms). At room temperature (approximately 25°C), a healthy LG NTC thermistor typically reads around 10,000–15,000 Ohms. An open-circuit reading (OL) or a very low reading near zero indicates a failed thermistor that needs replacement. Replacement thermistors cost ₹200–₹600 and are widely available for common LG models.
When to Call an LG Service Technician
If the tE error persists after checking connectors and wiring, the NTC thermistor likely needs professional replacement. Contact LG India customer care (1800-315-9999) or visit an authorised service centre. Attempting thermistor replacement without experience may void the warranty.
Need a replacement part? Browse compatible spares for your LG washing machine:
Browse LG Washing Machine Parts on Amazon India ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the tE error appear without an actual fault?
Yes — power fluctuations and sensor glitches can sometimes trigger false tE errors. A soft reset (unplug for 2 minutes) often clears these without any repairs needed.
How much does it cost to fix the tE error in India?
A replacement NTC thermistor costs ₹200–₹600 as a spare part. An authorised LG service centre visit typically charges ₹500–₹1,500 as a call-out fee plus parts.
Is the tE error covered under LG’s warranty?
Manufacturing defects such as a faulty thermistor from the factory are covered under LG’s standard 2-year warranty. Physical damage to wiring from misuse is typically not covered. For out-of-warranty machines, authorised service is recommended for quality-matched parts.
Related LG Washing Machine Errors
IE Error (Water Not Filling) | OE Error (Drainage) | UE Error (Unbalanced) | dE Error (Door) | PE Error (Water Level) | CE Error (Motor Current)