LG Washing Machine Error Code tE2 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The tE2 error means your LG washer detected a fault with the second thermistor (temperature sensor). This sensor monitors the water temperature inside the drum during hot water and steam cycles. When the sensor fails or reads an impossible temperature, the machine stops to prevent overheating your clothes. The tE2 code specifically points to the secondary thermistor, separate from the main tE error. This is typically a technician repair — the thermistor or heater assembly needs to be replaced.

Affected Models

LG WM3997HWA (washer/dryer combo)
LG WM4500HBA
LG WM9000HVA
LG WKEX200HBA
LG WM8100HVA

Common Causes

Failed secondary thermistor (temperature sensor) giving an out-of-range resistance reading
Loose or disconnected wire at the thermistor caused by vibration over time
Water damage or corrosion on the thermistor connector terminals
Faulty heating element assembly with an integrated bad thermistor
Control board fault misreading the thermistor signal circuit

How to Fix It

Start with a full power reset. Unplug the washer from the wall, wait 5 full minutes, then plug it back in. Power surges and temporary electrical faults can occasionally cause false tE2 errors. If the error doesn't return immediately, try running a short wash cycle.

tE2 errors that clear after a reset and don't return may have been caused by a temporary electrical issue.
Check your home's hot water supply. Make sure the hot water faucet near the washer is fully open. The tE2 sensor monitors incoming water temperature — extremely cold incoming water in some configurations can cause unexpected temperature sensor errors.

LG washers connected to a cold-water-only supply use an internal heater. If the heater circuit has a fault, temperature errors like tE2 can result.
Inspect the wiring harness at the back of the washer near the heater assembly for any loose or disconnected connector. On some LG models, the thermistor connector is accessible by removing the back access panel. Look for a small two-wire connector plugged into a probe mounted in the heating element housing.

Make sure the washer is unplugged before removing any access panels.
Test the secondary thermistor with a multimeter if you can access it. At room temperature (around 68°F / 20°C), a typical NTC thermistor reads approximately 10,000-50,000 ohms. Consult your service manual for the exact specification. An open circuit or near-zero reading means the thermistor has failed.

NTC means the resistance goes DOWN as temperature goes UP. If the resistance stays high even when the element is warm, the thermistor is faulty.
Schedule a technician visit if the thermistor is confirmed faulty or the wiring is intact but the error persists. Provide the technician with the full model number from the inside of the door frame. The tE2 code will help them bring the right part.

Many appliance parts stores stock LG thermistors. Confirm the part number from a technician or verified parts site before ordering.

When to Call a Professional

The tE2 error almost always requires a technician. The secondary thermistor is located inside the machine near the heater assembly and is difficult to access. Replacing it requires disassembling the back or bottom of the washer. A technician visit typically costs $100-$200 including parts and labor for thermistor replacement. If the heater assembly is involved, the cost can be $200-$400.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a thermistor and why does my washer have one?

A thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor — its electrical resistance changes based on how hot or cold it is. Your LG washer uses thermistors to measure the water temperature inside the drum. This lets the machine heat water to exactly the right temperature for each wash cycle setting. Without accurate temperature readings, the washer can't safely run hot water cycles.

Can I still use my LG washer with a tE2 error?

You may be able to run cold water cycles that don't require the heater. However, the machine will likely abort most normal cycles when it detects the sensor fault. Using the washer with a known heating circuit fault for extended periods is not recommended — get it repaired.

How is tE2 different from the plain tE error?

The plain tE code refers to the primary (main drum) thermistor fault. tE2 specifically refers to a second thermistor, which is used on models with steam functions or on washer/dryer combos. Both codes indicate a temperature sensor problem but in different sensor circuits. Always give your full model number to a technician so they can identify which thermistor is involved.