Best Replacement Parts for Samsung Washing Machine Error tE (2026)

If you’ve ever stared at a blinking tE‑parts code on your Samsung washing machine, you know how frustrating it can be. The good news is that, in the majority of cases, the culprit is a single, inexpensive component: the thermistor. This guide walks you through everything you need to know in 2026— from identifying the exact model you own, to picking the right replacement, to installing it safely, and even troubleshooting the occasional false alarm.

Quick‑look checklist
• Verify model number
• Power‑cycle the washer
• Inspect wiring & connectors
• Replace thermistor (≈ 15 min)
• Run a test cycle

Below you’ll find a deep dive into the error, a step‑by‑step repair, cost estimates adjusted for 2026, and two brand‑new sections that address common misdiagnoses and model‑specific quirks introduced in recent firmware updates.

1. Understanding the tE‑parts Error Code

1.1 What “tE” Means

Samsung’s diagnostic system uses a two‑letter prefix to pinpoint the failing subsystem. tE stands for temperature – error. The washer’s control board continuously reads the resistance of the thermistor; if the resistance falls outside the expected range, the board flags the error and halts the cycle to protect the machine and your laundry.

1.2 Why the “‑parts” Suffix Appears

In service manuals released after 2022, Samsung added the ‑parts suffix to make it clear that the fault is almost always hardware‑related, not a temporary software glitch. When you see tE‑parts, the diagnostic is telling you: “The thermistor or its immediate circuitry is not functioning as designed.”

1.3 Technical Snapshot (2026)

A faulty thermistor can cause the washer to think the water is too hot (preventing heating) or too cold (over‑heating the motor). Either condition can trigger safety shut‑offs or cause the machine to stop mid‑cycle.

2. First Things to Check (Before Ordering Parts)

Even seasoned technicians start with the simplest steps. Often a loose connector or a temporary power glitch can be cleared without opening the appliance.

If any of these steps clear the code, you’ve saved yourself a parts purchase. If the error persists, move on to the replacement procedure.

3. Choosing the Right Replacement Thermistor

3.1 OEM Part Numbers

Important: Samsung has not changed these part numbers for the 2025‑2026 model year, but they now ship with a silicone‑gel seal to improve moisture resistance. When ordering, look for the phrase “silicone‑gel sealed” in the product description.

3.2 Where to Buy (2026 Prices)

Prices have risen modestly (≈ 5 %) since 2024 due to supply‑chain adjustments. Buying directly from Samsung guarantees the silicone‑gel seal and a 1‑year warranty.

4. Step‑by‑Step Replacement Guide (15‑30 min)

Safety first: Always disconnect power before working inside the washer. Wear insulated gloves if you have them.

Step 1 – Identify Your Samsung Model Number

1. Open the door and look at the inner door frame for a metal plate.
2. Write down the model code (e.g., WF65R6300AV).
3. Cross‑reference the code with the table in Section 3.1 to confirm which thermistor you need.

Step 2 – Choose the Right Replacement Part

1. If your model matches the front‑load series, order DA32‑10105R.
2. For top‑load, order DA97‑06333A.
3. If you can’t locate the exact model or the part is back‑ordered, a generic NTC 10 kΩ with a matching 2‑pin connector will work because the electrical characteristics are identical.

Step 3 – Access the Thermistor

1. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
2. Remove the back panel: locate 4‑6 Phillips screws (usually 1‑inch) and set them aside.
3. Locate the thermistor near the bottom of the tub. It’s a small, black cylinder (≈ 1 in. long) with a 2‑pin plug.

Step 4 – Test Before Removal (Optional but Recommended)

1. Set your multimeter to Ω (ohms).
2. Disconnect the thermistor plug.
3. Measure resistance across the two pins. At room temperature you should see ≈ 10 kΩ.
4. If the reading is wildly out of range, you’ve confirmed the fault.

Step 5 – Remove the Faulty Thermistor

1. Gently pull the connector straight out—avoid yanking the wires.
2. The thermistor is seated in a plastic housing clipped into the tub wall. Use a small flat‑head screwdriver to release the clip and slide the thermistor out.

Step 6 – Install the New Thermistor

1. Insert the new thermistor into the housing, ensuring the silicone‑gel seal faces the water‑exposed side.
2. Snap the housing clip back into place.
3. Re‑connect the 2‑pin plug, making sure it clicks securely.

Step 7 – Reassemble and Test

1. Replace the back panel and tighten the Phillips screws.
2. Plug the washer back in.
3. Run a quick wash (cold water) and watch for the tE code.
4. If the code disappears and the cycle completes, the repair was successful.

5. When to Call a Professional

A Samsung‑certified technician can also re‑flash the latest firmware (see Section 6) if the error persists after a hardware swap.

6. Firmware Updates & Model‑Specific Notes (2025‑2026)

Samsung released Firmware Version 2.3.4 (released March 2025) for most 2022‑2024 WF series washers. This update added:

• Enhanced thermistor tolerance – the control board now accepts a wider resistance range, reducing false tE alarms caused by temporary voltage spikes.
• Self‑diagnostic logging – the washer records the last 10 sensor readings, viewable via the SmartThings app.

How to Update Firmware

1. Ensure the washer is connected to Wi‑Fi.
2. Open the SmartThings app, select your washer, and navigate to Device Settings → Firmware Update.
3. Follow the on‑screen prompts; the update takes ~10 minutes and the machine will reboot automatically.

Model‑Specific Quirks

If your washer falls into any of the rows above, pay extra attention to the housing and connector condition before assuming the thermistor is the only issue.

7. Common Misdiagnoses

Many DIYers mistake the tE‑parts code for other, unrelated problems. Below are the most frequent false alarms and how to rule them out.

By systematically ruling out these scenarios, you avoid unnecessary part purchases and keep repair costs low.

8. Cost Summary (2026)

All prices reflect U.S. retail rates in August 2026 and include typical shipping fees for standard delivery.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I replace the thermistor myself without voiding the warranty?
A: Yes. Samsung’s warranty states that owner‑performed repairs on non‑electrical components (including the thermistor) do not void the warranty, provided the part is OEM and the repair follows the service manual.

Q: My washer still shows tE after I replaced the thermistor. What next?
A: Re‑check the connector for corrosion, verify the new thermistor’s resistance (≈ 10 kΩ at 25 °C), and run the Sensor Check diagnostic. If the reading is still out of range, the control board may be damaged and should be inspected by a professional.

Q: Is there a difference between the front‑load and top‑load thermistors?
A: Electrically they are identical NTC 10 kΩ devices, but the housing geometry differs. Top‑load models use a slightly longer clip and a different orientation of the connector.

Q: Do I need to reset the error code after installing the new part?
A: Usually the washer clears the code automatically after the next cycle starts. If it persists, perform a power cycle (unplug for 5‑10 minutes) to reset the control board’s error memory.

Q: How often should I inspect the thermistor?
A: Samsung recommends a visual inspection every 3‑4 years or whenever you notice temperature‑related performance issues (e.g., cold water not heating).

10. Final Thoughts

The tE‑parts error is one of the most straightforward diagnostics you’ll encounter on a Samsung washing machine. With the right model number, a modest investment (often under $25 for an OEM thermistor), and a few basic tools, you can resolve the issue in under half an hour. Keeping your firmware up‑to‑date and being aware of model‑specific quirks will further reduce the chance of recurring errors.

Bottom line: Don’t let a blinking code keep you from clean clothes. Grab a screwdriver, follow the steps above, and get your washer back to peak performance— all while saving money and avoiding an unnecessary service call.

For more Samsung‑specific troubleshooting guides, see our articles on Error Code HE (Heater Error) and Error Code 4E (Drain Error).

Related Articles

• Samsung Dishwasher Error Code HE — How to Fix (Water Heater Issue)
• Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 1E — How to Fix (Water level sensor malfunction)
• Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 4E — How to Fix (Water supply error)
• Samsung Dishwasher Error Code 5E — How to Fix (Drain error)
• Samsung Dishwasher Error Code bE — How to Fix (Button/switch error on control