LG Dryer Error Code tE4
The temperature sensor inside the steam generator has failed, open or shorted. LG does not sell that sensor separately, so a technician replaces the whole steam generator assembly.
Also shown as: TE4
Common causes
- Steam generator thermistor open or shorted
- Loose wire harness between the steam generator and the main control board
- Failed steam generator assembly
What to check, in order
- Note that tE4 normally only appears in the dryer's diagnostic test mode, not during everyday cycles
- Unplug the dryer for a few minutes, restore power and run a non-steam cycle to confirm the dryer otherwise heats and tumbles normally
- Make sure the steam feeder is filled with water and its drawer is fully closed before using steam cycles
- Book a technician: the thermistor is built into the steam generator, which is replaced as a complete assembly
Clear the code and test
- Fix what the checks above found first. Clearing the code without fixing the cause only brings it back.
- Plug the appliance back in and restore its water supply if it has one.
- Run the shortest programme and watch the point where the code appeared before.
- If the programme finishes with no code, the fault is cleared. If the code returns, write it down before calling a technician — it speeds up the diagnosis.
When to call a professional
This code usually points to a faulty part, wiring or the control board on a LG dryer. Run the checks above to rule out the simple causes, then book a technician — and book one straight away if any of these apply:
- The code comes back after you have run the checks and a test cycle.
- You smell burning, see sparks or scorch marks, or the breaker trips.
- Water is leaking and you cannot stop it at the tap.
- The fix needs panels opened beyond what your manual describes, or a part tested with a meter, and you are not set up for that.
When you call, give the brand, the code tE4, your model number (on a label inside the door or on the back) and the checks you already ran. It shortens the visit.
Repair or replace?
This fault is in professional territory: the fix usually means a major part or board-level work, and the labour adds up. If your machine is already well into its service life, get the repair quote first, then compare it with the price of a current equivalent model before you decide. Paying a large share of a new machine's price to repair an old one is rarely the better deal; replacing a machine over one cheap fault is wasteful too.
Parts that may be involved
Steam generator assembly
Parts are model-specific. Find your model number first — usually on a label inside the door, on the door frame or on the back — and match the part to that number before ordering.
Questions people ask about tE4
What does tE4 mean on a LG dryer?
tE4 means: Steam generator thermistor failure (steam models; normally only shown in diagnostic test mode). The temperature sensor inside the steam generator has failed, open or shorted. LG does not sell that sensor separately, so a technician replaces the whole steam generator assembly.
Can I fix LG tE4 myself?
Only the preliminary checks. Code tE4 usually means a part, wiring or the control board has failed, which is a technician job. Run the checks to rule out simple causes before you book.
How do I clear LG tE4?
Fix the cause first — clearing the code on its own brings it straight back. Then restore power and water, run the shortest programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared. If the programme finishes with no code, it is cleared.
Sources checked
- LG Help Library: washing machine error codes
- PartsTown Resource Center: LG washing machine troubleshooting codes
The meaning and checks for this code were checked against the sources above in November 2026. Codes vary by model and region; if your manual lists a different meaning for your exact model, follow the manual.