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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code 3-2

Shorted connection or component in Temperature Sensing Circuit; incoming water temperature above 71°C…

Kenmore codesKenmore dishwasher codes

Shorted connection or component in Temperature Sensing Circuit; incoming water temperature above 71°C (160°F); shorted or faulty temperature sensor; faulty temperature sensor input on control.

First step from the service manual

1. Check incoming water temperature. 2. Check operation of temperature sensor in Service Diagnostic cycle. 3. Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power. 4. Check all components and connections in the Temperature Sensing Circuit.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What 3-2 means on a Kenmore dishwasher

Error code 3-2 on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates the control board has detected a problem in the temperature sensing circuit. Specifically, it has identified either a shorted connection or component in that circuit, an incoming water temperature above 167°F (75°C), a shorted or faulty thermistor (temperature sensor), or a faulty temperature sensor input on the control board itself. The control monitors water temperature throughout the wash cycle, and when it reads a signal that falls outside the expected range on the low-resistance end, it throws this code and halts normal operation.

For homeowners, this means your dishwasher's built-in thermometer is either reading an unusually high water temperature or sending a signal the control board cannot interpret correctly. The temperature sensor is a small component usually located in the sump area at the bottom of the tub. It tells the dishwasher how hot the water is so the machine can heat it to the correct level for washing and sanitizing. When the sensor shorts or the wiring to it shorts, the control board sees a false signal and stops the cycle to prevent damage. In some cases, the issue is simply that your home's water heater is set too high and is sending water into the dishwasher above the safe threshold of 167°F.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 3-2

  1. 01

    Incoming water temperature above 167°F (75°C)

    Wiring / connection

    If your home water heater is set very high or a recirculating system delivers near-boiling water, the dishwasher can receive water that exceeds its safe operating limit. This triggers the 3-2 code without any fault in the sensor or wiring itself.

  2. 02

    Shorted or faulty temperature sensor (thermistor)

    Part replacement

    A shorted thermistor sends a resistance reading that the control board interprets as an extremely high temperature or an invalid signal. This is one of the most common hardware causes of the 3-2 code and requires replacing the sensor.

  3. 03

    Shorted or damaged wiring in the temperature sensing circuit

    Part replacement

    If the wiring harness connecting the temperature sensor to the control board has chafed insulation, pinched wires, or a corroded connector, the circuit can short and produce the same out-of-range signal as a faulty sensor. Inspect the harness and connector terminals for visible damage.

  4. 04

    Faulty temperature sensor input on the control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring test within spec but the code persists, the control board's sensor input circuit may have failed. This is the least likely cause but should be considered after all other components have been verified with a meter.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 3-2

What does error code 3-2 mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Code 3-2 means the control board detected a problem in the temperature sensing circuit. This can be caused by incoming water that is too hot (above 167°F), a shorted temperature sensor, damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, or a faulty sensor input on the control board. The dishwasher stops the cycle because it cannot confirm a safe and accurate water temperature reading.
How do I fix error code 3-2 on my Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by checking the temperature of your incoming hot water at the kitchen faucet using a thermometer. If it exceeds 167°F, lower your water heater setting and retest. If water temperature is normal, run the service diagnostics cycle to test the temperature sensor's operation. Then use a multimeter to check the resistance of the thermistor and inspect the wiring harness for shorts or damaged connectors. If the sensor reads out of spec, replacing it is typically the fix. If all components check out, the control board may need replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my Kenmore dishwasher when code 3-2 is showing?
You should not continue running the dishwasher with this code active. The 3-2 code means the machine cannot reliably monitor water temperature, which affects both wash performance and the heating element's safe operation. Running cycles without accurate temperature feedback could result in improper sanitizing or, in some fault scenarios, overheating. Address the root cause before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dishwasher with a 3-2 error code?
If the fix is simply lowering your water heater temperature, there is no parts cost. A replacement thermistor (temperature sensor) typically costs between $10 and $40 for the part, making it one of the more affordable repairs. If the control board is at fault, the board itself can run $100 to $250 or more depending on the model. Professional labor generally adds $100 to $200 on top of parts, so a sensor replacement done professionally usually stays under $250 total.
How do I test the temperature sensor on my Kenmore dishwasher to diagnose a 3-2 code?
Disconnect power to the dishwasher before testing. Locate the thermistor, usually mounted in the sump at the tub base, and disconnect its wiring connector. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (ohms) and probe the sensor terminals. At room temperature, most dishwasher thermistors read in the range of 10,000 to 50,000 ohms depending on the model; consult your tech sheet for the exact specification. A reading of near zero (shorted) or infinite resistance (open) confirms a faulty sensor. You can also run the dishwasher's service diagnostics cycle, which actively tests the temperature sensor and helps isolate whether the sensor, wiring, or control is at fault.

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