What tE3 means (lg te3 error)
An lg te3 error means an LG dryer has detected a fault with the outlet or secondary thermistor — the sensor monitoring the temperature of the air leaving the drum. A reading out of range raises tE3, which the control uses to keep the exhaust temperature within a safe band.
Symptoms to look for
The signs below help confirm you are dealing with this condition rather than a different fault on your LG Dryer. You may see one of them or several together, and they can build up gradually or appear suddenly after a power event, a long door opening, or recent service.
- The display shows “tE3”
- The dryer runs too hot or fails to heat correctly
- Cycles end early or do not dry fully
- The fault appears during the heating phase
Common causes
Several different faults can produce these symptoms. Working through the most likely causes in order helps separate a quick, owner-level check from a problem that needs trained service and the correct LG parts.
- Failed outlet thermistor — the sensor reads out of range
- Restricted exhaust — poor airflow skews the outlet temperature
- Wiring fault — a broken or loose sensor connection
- Control input fault — the board misreads the sensor
Troubleshooting steps you can try
Work through these checks in order before calling for service. Stop wherever you are unsure, or where high-voltage parts, gas, the sealed refrigeration system, or a heat-pump compressor are involved, and hand the rest to a qualified technician.
- Clean the lint filter and confirm the exhaust duct is clear.
- Power the dryer off at the breaker for several minutes, then restore.
- Note whether the dryer runs hot or cold with the code.
- If tE3 persists with a clear exhaust, leave it for service.
Parts a technician may replace
Depending on what the diagnosis shows, a technician may inspect, test, or replace the outlet thermistor, exhaust path, heater assembly, and control board. The correct part for your LG Dryer is matched from the model and serial number, and genuine LG components are fitted rather than generic substitutes so that performance, safety, and the appliance’s long working life are all protected. Confirming the failed part before ordering avoids replacing more than the fault actually requires.
When to call a technician
tE3 needs a technician to measure the outlet thermistor and check the exhaust and wiring, replacing the failed part. When the fix calls for trained service, book a visit through our scheduling page and an experienced, qualified technician will diagnose and repair it. For manufacturer documentation and model lookup, see the manufacturer at lg.com/us.
Prevention and care
Regular care keeps this condition from returning on your LG Dryer. Keep filters, vents, and the condenser or exhaust path clean, avoid overloading or blocking airflow, check that doors and seals close cleanly, and follow the LG maintenance guidance for your model. Because this unit relies on electronic control, protect it with a stable, correctly rated power supply and have any built-in or laundry installation done to LG specification so the control never sees an out-of-range condition. If a code appears, note exactly what was shown before you reset the appliance — that record helps the technician reach an accurate diagnosis and avoid replacing parts unnecessarily.
Related help and LG resources
Browse other LG Dryer diagnostics, read about professional LG Dryer repair, look up your unit in the LG models reference, or the related tE4 temperature range fault, or schedule a service visit. For LG manufacturer documentation and model lookup, visit the manufacturer at lg.com/us.
