Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer tE Error Fix: Water Temperature Sensor Error

Water temperature thermistor reading out of range. Check thermistor wiring. Measure resistance — approximately 40K-50K ohms at room temperature. Replace if outside specifications.

Medium severity2 fixes available✨ Free fix available

Quick Answer

Error tE on the Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer means: Water Temperature Sensor Error. The top-ranked community fix is “Test and Replace Water Temperature Thermistor Sensor” (medium difficulty, ~60 min, DIY cost: $15-$30). 2 community-ranked fixes available below.

Published February 2026 · 2 fixes · washer

Content is based on manufacturer service documentation, community repair experience, and OEM technical bulletins. Always verify with your owner's manual.Learn about our editorial standards.

When to Call a Professional

While many washer repairs can be done safely at home, consider hiring a qualified technician if:

The repair involves electrical wiring, gas lines, or refrigerant
You've tried the top-ranked fix and the error persists
You smell gas, see sparking, or notice water leaking
The repair requires specialized tools you don't have
Your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150-$250.

Other Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer Error Codes

Child Lock Active

2 fixes

Door Open Error

2 fixes

dE1

Door Lock Error — Electrical

2 fixes

dE2

Door Lock Error — Switch

2 fixes

DOOR SEAL MOLD

Door Boot Seal Mold/Mildew

Drain Pump Clogged

Drum Bearing Failure

Overflow Error — Too Much Water

2 fixes

People Also Ask About Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer Error tE

What does error code tE mean on a Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer?

Error code tE on the Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer means: Water Temperature Sensor Error. Water temperature thermistor reading out of range. Check thermistor wiring. Measure resistance — approximately 40K-50K ohms at room temperature. Replace if outside specifications.

How do I fix error code tE on my Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer?

The most successful fix is "Test and Replace Water Temperature Thermistor Sensor" (medium difficulty, ~60 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $15-$30. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

Is error code tE on a Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer serious?

This error is rated medium severity. It should be addressed soon, but your appliance may still function in a limited capacity.

Can I fix Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer error tE myself?

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Test and Replace Water Temperature Thermistor Sensor") is rated medium difficulty and takes about 60 minutes. Tools needed: T20 Torx screwdriver, Multimeter, Needle-nose pliers.

How much does it cost to repair Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer error tE?

DIY cost: $15-$30. Professional repair typically costs $150-$250. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

What other error codes does the Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer have?

The Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer has 8 other known error codes, including: CL (Child Lock Active), dE (Door Open Error), dE1 (Door Lock Error — Electrical), dE2 (Door Lock Error — Switch), DOOR SEAL MOLD (Door Boot Seal Mold/Mildew), and 3 more.

What other error codes does the Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer have?

The Kenmore 796.41392 Elite Front-Load Washer has 8 other known error codes:

CL — Child Lock Active (2 fixes)
dE — Door Open Error (2 fixes)
dE1 — Door Lock Error — Electrical (2 fixes)
dE2 — Door Lock Error — Switch (2 fixes)
DOOR SEAL MOLD — Door Boot Seal Mold/Mildew (2 fixes)
DRAIN PUMP CLOG — Drain Pump Clogged (2 fixes)
DRUM BEARING FAIL — Drum Bearing Failure (2 fixes)
FE — Overflow Error — Too Much Water (2 fixes)

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