Samsung Dryer Error E3 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

E3 means the dryer's thermistor — the temperature sensor — is not sending a signal to the control board. The thermistor constantly measures the temperature inside the drum. The control board uses this reading to regulate heat and protect your clothes from overheating. When the signal disappears, the dryer shuts down rather than risk running without temperature control. This is usually a failed thermistor or a wiring problem — both are manageable repairs.

Affected Models

DV42H5200
DV48H7400
DVE45R6100
DVG45T6000
DV56H9100
Most Samsung electric and gas dryers

Common Causes

The thermistor has failed — its resistance value has shifted outside the range the control board expects
The thermistor wiring harness connector has come loose from the thermistor or from the control board
The thermistor wire has been damaged by heat inside the dryer, causing an open circuit
Lint accumulation around the thermistor has insulated it, causing it to read incorrect temperatures
The control board has developed a fault and is not correctly reading the thermistor signal

How to Fix It

Unplug the dryer from the wall before doing anything else. For gas dryers, also turn off the gas supply valve behind the dryer.

Never work inside any appliance with power connected. Unplug the dryer at the wall outlet — do not rely on simply pressing the power button.
Locate the thermistor. On most Samsung dryers it is a small oval or rectangular sensor mounted inside the drum area near the lint filter housing or on the exhaust duct.

Your specific model's service manual shows the exact location. Search for your Samsung dryer model number and 'thermistor location' to find a diagram or video.
Check the connector attached to the thermistor. Disconnect and firmly reconnect the wiring harness connector. Sometimes vibration causes these connectors to work themselves loose.

Look for bent or pushed-back metal pins in the connector. A pin that is not making full contact will cause the same E3 error as a completely failed thermistor.
If a multimeter is available, test the thermistor's resistance. At room temperature, a working Samsung thermistor typically reads around 10,000 ohms (10k ohms). A very high or very low reading indicates failure.

Exact resistance values vary by model — check your model's service manual for the correct specification. A reading of 'OL' (open loop) or zero ohms confirms the thermistor has failed.
Replace the thermistor if it tests out of specification or if you cannot test it. Order a thermistor specific to your Samsung dryer model number. Replacement is typically two screws and a connector.

After replacing the thermistor, plug the dryer back in and run a short cycle. E3 should not reappear. If it does, the issue may be with the wiring harness or the control board.

When to Call a Professional

E3 is a moderate repair that many homeowners handle themselves. Thermistors are inexpensive — typically $10 to $25 — and are accessible without major disassembly on most Samsung models. If you are not comfortable with basic appliance repair, a technician can replace the thermistor in about 30 to 60 minutes. Expect repair costs of $80 to $180 including parts and labor. Contact Samsung support at 1-800-726-7864 if the dryer is under warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a thermistor and why does the dryer need one?

A thermistor is a type of resistor whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature. The dryer's control board sends a small electrical signal through the thermistor and measures the resistance. As the drum temperature rises, the resistance value changes in a known way. The control board converts this resistance reading into a temperature and uses it to manage the heating element and protect your clothes.

My dryer shows E3 but still dries clothes. Is it safe to use?

We recommend not using the dryer with an E3 error. With no reliable temperature data, the control board cannot regulate heat correctly. The dryer may overheat and damage your clothes — or the thermal fuse may blow as a secondary protection measure. A blown thermal fuse requires another repair on top of the thermistor replacement. Fix E3 first before running the dryer.

How do I find the correct thermistor for my Samsung dryer model?

The model number is printed on a sticker inside the door opening — on the front panel frame. Search for 'Samsung [your model number] thermistor' on Amazon, AppliancePartsPros, or RepairClinic. Thermistors are model-specific — make sure you order the exact part for your model, not a generic one. The part number on the thermistor itself (visible when you remove it) also works for ordering a replacement.