April 19, 2023

Kenmore 796 model dryer error codes

Kenmore

These error code explanations can help you diagnose a problem with your Kenmore 796 dryer. When a failure occurs, you'll see the error code flashing on the digital display of your dryer.

Find the error code displayed on your Kenmore 796 dryer's control panel in the chart below and follow the troubleshooting tips to fix the problem.

For repair how-to help, visit the PartsDirect repair help section, which includes repair help for dryers, other major appliances, lawn and garden equipment, garage door openers, vacuum cleaners and more. Search for your model number to find a complete list of replacement parts for your dryer.

Error Code
Condition
DIY advice
tE1

Thermistor failure

Check/Repair

The electronic control detects that the thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed. Unplug the dryer and measure the resistance through the thermistor. It should measure about 10,000 ohms at room temperature. If the thermistor is defective, replace it.

Possible parts
Thermistor
tE2

Thermistor failure

Check/Repair

The electronic control detects that the thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed. Unplug the dryer and measure the resistance through the thermistor. It should measure about 10,000 ohms at room temperature. If the thermistor is defective, replace it.

Possible parts
Thermistor
dE

Door switch error

Check/Repair

Check the operation of the door switch using the diagnostic test mode, which is explained in the tech sheet that's typically stored in the console of the dryer. If the door switch is defective, replace it.

Possible parts
Door switch

Most common symptoms to help you fix your dryers

Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.

Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, c...

Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure...

Main causes: bad drum support roller, damaged idler pulley, broken blower fan blade, worn drum glide bearing, bad drive ...

Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failur...

Main causes: damaged door strike, worn door catch...

Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, fau...

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 s...

Most common repair guides to help fix your dryers

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

How to replace a dryer thermistor

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 ...

Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
How to install a thermal cut-off fuse kit in a gas dryer

How to install a thermal cut-off fuse kit in a gas dryer

The thermal cut-off fuse shuts off the heat if the dryer overheats when the high-limit thermostat fails. The thermal cut...

Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
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How to replace a dryer drive belt

If the drive belt breaks, the motor runs but the drum won't rotate. These step-by-step instructions guide you through th...

Repair difficulty
Time required
90 minutes or less

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