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Error code reference

Kenmore Dryer Error Code F-25

Inlet thermistor is shorted (only appears in diagnostic test mode).

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What the F-25 error code actually means

Your dryer's temperature sensor near the air inlet is sending a faulty reading to the control board, likely because the sensor has failed internally or a wire connected to it is damaged. This error only shows up when the dryer is put into a special diagnostic test mode, not during regular use. A technician will need to test the sensor and its wiring to find the root cause.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F-25 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
See TEST #4a, page 9.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of F-25

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Failed inlet thermistor
  2. 2Damaged wiring harness
  3. 3Corroded or shorted connector
  4. 4Faulty control board

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Questions people ask about F-25

What does F-25 mean on a Kenmore dryer?
F-25 indicates that the inlet thermistor circuit has shorted. The inlet thermistor is a temperature sensor that monitors air entering the drum and reports that temperature to the control board. This code only appears during the dryer's diagnostic test mode and points to either a failed thermistor, damaged wiring, or a faulty connector in that circuit.
Will resetting my Kenmore dryer clear the F-25 code?
Resetting the dryer by unplugging it will clear stored error codes temporarily, but F-25 will return the next time a diagnostic test is run if the underlying fault is still present. Because this code only appears in diagnostic test mode, simply resetting the dryer and running normal cycles may not cause the code to reappear until the diagnostics are run again. The thermistor circuit should still be tested and repaired to ensure the dryer is regulating temperature correctly.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dryer F-25 error?
Repair costs depend on what component is at fault. A replacement inlet thermistor typically costs somewhere in the range of $10 to $40 for the part alone. If a technician is performing the repair, labor charges will add to that total, generally bringing the full repair cost to somewhere in the $75 to $200 range depending on your location and service rates. If the control board is the cause, parts and labor costs will be higher.
How do I fix the F-25 error code on my Kenmore dryer?
The recommended starting point is TEST #4a in the technical diagnostic procedure, which walks through testing the thermistor circuit systematically. You should measure resistance across the thermistor terminals and inspect the wiring harness and connector for damage or corrosion. If the thermistor reads near zero ohms regardless of temperature, replacing the thermistor is the likely fix. If the wiring is the problem, repairing or replacing the affected section of the harness will resolve the code.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore dryer when F-25 is present?
Since F-25 only surfaces during diagnostic test mode and not during normal operation, the dryer may continue to run cycles. However, a shorted inlet thermistor means the control board is receiving inaccurate temperature data, which could affect how the dryer regulates heat. It is advisable to have the thermistor circuit tested and repaired before continued regular use to avoid potential overheating issues.

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