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Error code reference

LG Microwave Error Code TE

Touch communication error (10 seconds)

LG codesLG microwave codes

Touch communication error (10 seconds) — touch membrane or Sub Module PCB failure.

First step from the service manual

Determine if no keys are recognized, keys are intermittent, or a specific key fails; replace Assy Door-A (including switch membrane) or Sub Module PCB accordingly.

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

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What TE means on a LG microwave

The TE error code on an LG microwave indicates a touch communication error, specifically a failure in communication between the touch membrane and the Sub Module PCB that has persisted for 10 seconds or longer. This error is triggered when the control system detects that the touch interface is not transmitting valid signals within the expected timeframe. The two primary components involved are the door assembly (Assy Door-A), which contains the touch switch membrane, and the Sub Module PCB responsible for interpreting and relaying touch input signals to the main control board.

The root cause of a TE error typically falls into one of two categories: a degraded or failed touch membrane, or a faulty Sub Module PCB. The touch membrane can fail due to physical wear, moisture intrusion, delamination of the conductive traces, or damage from repeated use. The Sub Module PCB can develop faults from heat exposure, component failure, or poor solder connections that disrupt the communication pathway. Distinguishing between the two requires observing the pattern of key recognition failures before condemning either part.

Diagnosing this error begins by characterizing the failure pattern precisely. If no keys are recognized at all, the issue is more likely systemic, pointing toward the Sub Module PCB or a complete membrane failure. If keys respond intermittently, a partially failed membrane with damaged traces is more probable. If only one specific key fails, the fault is typically localized to that key's membrane zone. This distinction guides the repair toward replacing either the Assy Door-A assembly, which includes the switch membrane, or the Sub Module PCB.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of TE

  1. 01

    Failed touch switch membrane

    Part replacement

    The conductive membrane inside the door assembly degrades over time from repeated pressing, heat, or moisture, causing keys to become unresponsive. This is the most common cause and often presents as all keys failing or intermittent response across multiple buttons.

  2. 02

    Faulty Sub Module PCB

    Part replacement

    The Sub Module PCB processes signals from the touch membrane and can fail due to heat stress, component wear, or poor solder joints, severing communication entirely. This is more likely if the membrane shows no visible damage but the error persists.

  3. 03

    Intermittent membrane connection

    Wiring / connection

    The connector or ribbon cable linking the touch membrane to the Sub Module PCB can work loose or develop a poor contact, causing the communication dropout that triggers the 10-second TE threshold. This may cause intermittent key failures rather than a complete outage.

  4. 04

    Moisture or contamination on the membrane

    Part replacement

    Liquid intrusion beneath the touchpad surface can disrupt the conductive traces and cause erratic or absent key recognition. Inspect the membrane area for signs of moisture, staining, or corrosion.

  5. 05

    Single damaged key zone on membrane

    Part replacement

    If only one specific key is unresponsive while all others function, the fault is typically isolated to that key's zone within the membrane layer. This still requires replacing the Assy Door-A assembly since the membrane is not serviceable at the individual key level.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about TE

What does TE mean on a LG microwave?
The TE error code on an LG microwave stands for touch communication error. It activates when the microwave's control system does not receive valid signals from the touch membrane for 10 consecutive seconds. The two components most often responsible are the touch switch membrane inside the door assembly and the Sub Module PCB. Identifying which keys are failing, all of them, some intermittently, or just one, helps pinpoint which part needs replacement.
Can I fix the TE error myself on my LG microwave?
Some DIY-capable homeowners can address this error by replacing the Assy Door-A assembly or the Sub Module PCB, as both are discrete components. However, microwave interiors contain a high-voltage capacitor that can retain a lethal charge even when unplugged, so disassembly should only be attempted by someone comfortable with high-voltage appliance safety procedures. If you are not experienced with this type of repair, hiring a qualified technician is strongly recommended.
Is it safe to use my LG microwave when the TE error is displayed?
When the TE error is active, the touchpad is not communicating reliably, which means you may not be able to start, stop, or control the microwave properly. Using an appliance with a non-functional control interface is not recommended, as you could lose the ability to interrupt a cooking cycle. It is best to stop using the microwave until the fault is resolved.
Will resetting my LG microwave clear the TE error?
Unplugging the microwave for a minute and restoring power may temporarily clear the TE display if the communication dropout was caused by a transient glitch. However, if the underlying touch membrane or Sub Module PCB is physically degraded, the error will return once the microwave attempts to read the touchpad again. A persistent TE code requires component inspection and likely replacement to resolve permanently.
How much does it cost to repair a TE error on an LG microwave?
Repair costs vary depending on whether the Assy Door-A assembly or the Sub Module PCB needs replacement and whether you hire a technician or purchase parts yourself. Parts alone typically range from around $30 to $150 depending on the specific model and component. Adding professional labor, total repair costs often fall in the range of $100 to $250. For older or lower-cost microwave models, comparing repair cost to replacement cost is worth considering before proceeding.

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