Dryer error codes

Error Code

If your dryer has a digital display, the dryer flashes an error code if something goes wrong.

Below are common error code tables for the most popular brands of dryers, along with an explanation of what the code means, possible repair parts you might need and DIY advice. You'll find Kenmore dryer error codes as well as codes listed for other popular dryer brands such as Whirlpool, GE, Maytag, Frigidaire and Samsung.

Visit Sears PartsDirect’s repair help section for more DIY advice for dryers, other major appliances, lawn and garden equipment, garage door openers, vacuum cleaners and more. To find the owner’s manual or a complete list of replacement parts for your appliance, search for your model number.

Dryer

Symptoms common to all dryers

Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.

Main causes: bad drum support roller, damaged idler pulley, broken blower fan blade, worn drum glide bearing, bad drive motor
Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, control failure
Main causes: bad timer or electronic control board, door switch failure
Main causes: lack of electrical power, bad power cord, wiring failure, bad control board, blown thermal fuse, bad door switch
Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, faulty drive motor
Main causes: damaged door strike, worn door catch
Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failure
Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure

Repair guides common to all dryers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your dryer.

August 1, 2014
By Lyle Weischwill
How to replace a dryer drum support roller

If your dryer thumps or squeals, replace the drum support roller to restore quiet to your home.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less
August 1, 2014
By Lyle Weischwill
How to replace a dryer thermistor

The thermistor senses the air temperature in the dryer. If your dryer overheats or doesn't heat at all, the thermistor could be the problem.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
August 1, 2014
By Lyle Weischwill
How to replace a dryer idler pulley

The idler pulley exerts pressure keeps the drive belt tight so it can rotate the drum. A worn idler pulley squeals or squeaks when the dryer is running. Follow these instructions to replace it.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less

Articles and videos common to all dryers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your dryer.

October 24, 2022

Easy DIY appliance repairs that anyone can do

By Lyle Weischwill

Get advice on simple DIY fixes for appliances that you can safely do on your own.

January 4, 2022

How to replace a Maytag dryer heating element

By Lyle Weischwill

Learn how to replace a Maytag dryer heating element

August 17, 2021

How to read a wiring schematic video

By Lyle Weischwill

Learn how to decipher symbols so you can buy the right part for your problem.