What tE1, tE2, tE3, tE4, tE5, tE6 Means
A tE code (tE1 through tE6) means LG's control board detected a problem with the dryer's thermistor (temperature sensor). LG's dryer Help Library article treats all six as one family with the same reset procedure; a separate LG note on tE2 specifically adds that it can occur during a steam cycle if the duct cools down too quickly in cold conditions, which is worth checking if your tE2 only happens on SteamFresh or Steam Sanitary cycles.
Common Causes of tE1, tE2, tE3, tE4, tE5, tE6
- Thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed or lost contact
- Cold outdoor conditions causing rapid duct cooldown during a steam cycle (tE2 specifically)
- Lint filter or exhaust vent restriction affecting airflow and duct temperature
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Unplug the dryer (or trip its circuit breaker), and while it's without power, press and hold the START/PAUSE button for 5 seconds, then restore power and run another cycle; if you're seeing tE2 specifically during a steam cycle, also check that the lint filter is clean and the outside exhaust vent isn't restricted, since a struggling duct is what LG names as the trigger.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- If the reset procedure doesn't clear the code on a repeat cycle, the thermistor itself needs replacement, which is inside the drum housing and not a surface-level part.
- A dryer that can't reliably sense temperature can either underdry loads or, in rarer cases, overheat fabric - don't keep running full cycles on a dryer showing a repeat tE code hoping it'll sort itself out.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.