FixByModel
tC

Samsung tC: Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

The dishwasher is getting an abnormal reading from its temperature sensor (thermistor), so it can't measure the water temperature accurately. It usually means a bad sensor, wiring issue, or occasionally the control board.

May need a technician

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Faulty temperature sensor / thermistor
  2. Damaged or corroded sensor wiring or connector
  3. Sensor reading out of range (too hot or open circuit)
  4. Control board fault
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Power resetTurn the dishwasher off at the breaker for about 2 minutes, restore power, and run a normal cycle.
2Inspect the sensorLocate the temperature sensor near the heating element at the base and check for cracks or corrosion.
3Check connectionsReseat the sensor's wiring connector and look for damaged wires.
4Test the sensorUse a multimeter to check the sensor for continuity/resistance within its normal range.
5Call a technicianIf tC returns after resetting, have the sensor or control board diagnosed professionally.

Still showing tC?

If you’ve worked through every step and tC keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

Samsung dishwashers. Most Samsung dishwashers; older models display tE for the same temperature-sensor fault (tE = tC).

FAQ

What does Samsung tC mean?

Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault. The dishwasher is getting an abnormal reading from its temperature sensor (thermistor), so it can't measure the water temperature accurately. It usually means a bad sensor, wiring issue, or occasionally the control board.

What causes Samsung tC?

The most likely cause is faulty temperature sensor / thermistor. Other causes include Damaged or corroded sensor wiring or connector; Sensor reading out of range (too hot or open circuit); Control board fault.

Can I fix Samsung tC myself?

Some checks are DIY, but this code often points to an internal component, so it may need a qualified technician.