Kenmore Dryer Error Code Displayed — Troubleshooting Guide

Error codes on Kenmore dryers come from three completely different diagnostic systems depending on who manufactured your unit. The 110-series (Whirlpool-built) uses the F#E# format, the 796-series (LG-built) uses letter-number codes like dE, tE, or HE, and the 417-series (Electrolux-built) uses E-series codes. Reading Kenmore error codes without knowing your OEM platform leads to misdiagnosis every time.

How to Read Your Kenmore Dryer Model Number

Find your model number (the label is on the door frame for 110-series, the front rim behind the door for 796-series, or inside the door opening for 417-series) and match the first three digits:

Kenmore 110-Series (Whirlpool Platform) Error Codes

The Whirlpool F#E# system encodes the failed system (F-number) and the specific fault (E-number):

Most Common Codes

F01 E01 — EEPROM/Memory Error The main control board EEPROM has lost its programming or become corrupted. Power-cycle the dryer (unplug for 2 minutes). If the code returns, the main control board needs replacement. Parts: Main board $80–$180 | Professional: $180–$320

F01 E02 — Main Board Communication Error The main board cannot communicate with the user interface board. Check the ribbon cable between the two boards — reseat connections. If loose or corroded, clean contacts with electrical contact cleaner. Persistent code = UI board or main board failure. Parts: Ribbon cable $10–$20, UI board $80–$160 | Professional: $150–$300

F02 E01 — Keypad Stuck A button on the control panel is stuck or shorted. Clean around all buttons with a damp cloth. If the code persists after cleaning, the user interface board membrane has failed. Parts: UI board $80–$160 | Professional: $150–$280

F22 — Exhaust Thermistor Open The exhaust temperature sensor circuit is open (broken wire or failed thermistor). Check wiring from the thermistor to the main board for breaks. If wiring is intact, replace the exhaust thermistor. Parts: Thermistor $15–$35 | Professional: $100–$180

F23 — Exhaust Thermistor Shorted Opposite of F22 — the sensor reads zero resistance (shorted). Same troubleshooting approach: check wiring first, then replace sensor.

F28 — Moisture Sensor Failure The moisture sensor bars inside the drum are not reading correctly. Clean the sensor bars with rubbing alcohol and fine sandpaper. If the code returns after cleaning, the sensor wiring or the main board moisture sensor circuit has failed. Parts: Sensor bars $15–$25 | Professional: $100–$180

Entering Diagnostic Mode (110-Series)

1. Make sure the dryer is in standby (plugged in, all lights off).
2. Press any three buttons in sequence within 8 seconds, repeating the sequence 3 times. (Example: 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3.)
3. All indicators will illuminate if diagnostic mode is entered successfully.
4. Turn the cycle selector to step through each test.

Kenmore 796-Series (LG Platform) Error Codes

LG error codes use intuitive letter abbreviations:

dE — Door Error The door switch does not register as closed. Check the door latch, door switch, and wiring. Common cause: door switch failure (LG 6601EL3001A). Parts: Door switch $10–$25 | Professional: $80–$150

tE1 / tE2 — Thermistor Error Temperature sensor (thermistor) failure. tE1 = inlet thermistor, tE2 = outlet thermistor. Test with a multimeter — should read approximately 10K ohms at room temperature. Parts: Thermistor $15–$30 | Professional: $100–$180

HE / HE2 — Heater Error The heating element or heater relay has failed. On electric models, test the heating element for continuity. On gas models, check the igniter and gas valve coils. Parts: Heating element $30–$80, gas valve coils $15–$40 | Professional: $130–$280

d80 / d90 / d95 — Flow Sense (Vent Restriction) This is not a malfunction — it is a warning that your vent system is restricted. d80 = 80% blocked, d90 = 90%, d95 = 95%. Clean the entire vent run from dryer to exterior immediately. This is a fire hazard warning.

LE — Motor Locked Error The drum motor is overloaded or seized. Check for items jammed between the drum and the cabinet. Inspect drum rollers and belt for binding. If clear, the motor may have failed. Parts: Motor $80–$180 | Professional: $200–$380

Kenmore 417-Series (Electrolux Platform) Error Codes

E64 — Heating Element Open Circuit The heating element has burned out. Test with a multimeter for continuity. Parts: Heating element $40–$100 | Professional: $140–$260

E63 — Insufficient Heating The dryer is not reaching target temperature. Check the heating element, hi-limit thermostat, and vent for restriction.

E61 — Heater Relay Failure The relay on the main board that controls the heating element has failed. Requires board replacement. Parts: Main board $150–$280 | Professional: $250–$420

Clearing Error Codes

Clearing the code without fixing the underlying cause will result in the code returning, often within one cycle.

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Kenmore dryer showing an error code? Our technicians are trained on all three OEM platforms and carry diagnostic tools for Whirlpool, LG, and Electrolux systems. Schedule a repair →