tE4
What code tE4 means on a Kenmore tumble dryers, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore tE4 means: Steam generator thermistor failure. The documented cause is: Unplug the dryer and check the wire harness connections between the steam generator and the main control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged.
What tE4 means
Steam generator thermistor failure
The display shows tE4 and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| Unplug the dryer and check the wire harness connections between the steam generator and the main control board |
| Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged |
| If the wire connections are okay, replace the steam generator because it houses the steam generator thermistor |
| The steam generator thermistor isn't sold as a separate component |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine before removing any panel. Lint is flammable: never run a dryer with the filter removed, and clear the duct if the code points to airflow.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
Find a specialist
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Frequently asked questions
What does tE4 mean on a Kenmore?
Steam generator thermistor failure The documented cause is: Unplug the dryer and check the wire harness connections between the steam generator and the main control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the steam generator because it houses the steam generator thermistor. The steam generator thermistor isn't sold as a separate component
Can I fix tE4 myself?
It depends on the part involved: Unplug the dryer and check the wire harness connections between the steam generator and the main control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the steam generator because it houses the steam generator thermistor. The steam generator thermistor isn't sold as a separate component Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 65 other codes for Kenmore on this tumble dryers. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.