AEG Washer Error Code E71

E71 means the washer detected that the water temperature exceeded 88°C for more than 5 minutes, triggering an overheating fault. The machine stops the cycle to prevent damage to the drum, clothing, and internal components. The fault is typically caused by a defective NTC temperature sensor, a grounded heater element, or a damaged ribbon cable in the sensor circuit.

No, you should not run the washer while E71 is active. The fault indicates either a genuine overtemperature condition or a faulty sensor that is preventing proper temperature control. Running the machine in this state risks damage to the drum, internal components, and any laundry inside.

If only the NTC sensor needs replacement, repair costs are typically in the lower range, with parts generally costing between $10 and $40 depending on the model, plus labor if a technician is used. If the heater element has failed, parts and labor costs will be higher, often ranging from $80 to $200 or more. Getting a diagnostic assessment before ordering parts is advisable to avoid unnecessary expense.

Start by replacing the NTC thermistor, as this is the most common cause of E71. If the error returns after replacing the NTC, test the heater element with a multimeter for continuity and for any leakage to ground. Also inspect the ribbon cable connecting the sensor and control board for damage or loose connections at either end.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error display, but the fault will return if the underlying cause has not been resolved. If the NTC sensor is defective or the heater element is grounded, the condition will repeat once the machine runs a heated cycle. The root cause must be diagnosed and repaired for a lasting fix.