## How to Fix Electrolux Washing Machine Error E71 (NTC Failure)
The Electrolux E71 error code is a common fault indicating an issue with the machine’s primary temperature sensor. This guide will help you understand, diagnose, and resolve this problem, saving you time and the cost of a service technician.
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### 1. Explanation: What Electrolux Error E71 Means
In simple terms, the E71 error signifies an **NTC Failure**.
* **NTC** stands for Negative Temperature Coefficient. This is the technical term for the **Thermistor**—the sensor responsible for monitoring the water temperature inside the wash drum.
* The control board (PCB) uses the Thermistor reading to ensure the wash cycle reaches the correct temperature settings (e.g., 40°C or 60°C).
* **When Error E71 appears,** it means the control board is receiving a reading from the Thermistor that is either illogical (too high or too low for ambient temperature) or no reading at all (an open circuit).
* **The Likely Culprit:** A faulty Thermistor itself, or occasionally, damaged wiring connecting the Thermistor to the main control board.
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### 2. Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing and Replacing the Thermistor
Before attempting any internal repairs, ensure the machine is **unplugged** and the water supply is turned off.
#### Step 1: Power Reset and Simple Check
1. **Hard Reset:** Unplug the washing machine completely for 15 minutes. Plug it back in and try running a short cycle. Sometimes, transient errors can be cleared by a simple power cycle.
2. **Inspect Visible Wiring:** If the error persists, gently pull the machine away from the wall and inspect the visible electrical harness connecting the motor and drum area. Look for any chewed wires (if you have pets) or disconnected plugs.
#### Step 2: Locate the Thermistor
The Thermistor is usually located near the heating element inside the machine’s drum basin.
1. **Access Panel:** Depending on your model, you will likely need to remove either the **rear panel** or the **front kick panel** (bottom section) to gain access to the underside of the drum.
2. **Identify the Component:** The Thermistor is a small, usually black or grey sensor clipped into the side or top of the main heating element. It will have a thin pair of wires connected to it.
#### Step 3: Test the Thermistor (Using a Multimeter)
This step confirms whether the sensor is actually faulty. You will need a multimeter capable of measuring resistance (Ohms – $Omega$).
1. **Disconnect Wires:** Carefully disconnect the wires leading to the Thermistor.
2. **Set Multimeter:** Set your multimeter to the resistance setting (usually 20k $Omega$).
3. **Measure Resistance:** Place the multimeter probes onto the two terminals of the Thermistor.
4. **Expected Readings:** The Thermistor’s resistance changes based on temperature. At room temperature (around 20°C / 68°F), a healthy Electrolux Thermistor should typically read between **4,800 $Omega$ and 6,000 $Omega$** (4.8k $Omega$ to 6.0k $Omega$).
* **If the reading is 0 or OL (Over Limit/Open Loop):** The Thermistor is faulty and needs replacement.
* **If the reading is far outside the 4.8k $Omega$ to 6.0k $Omega$ range:** The sensor is inaccurate and needs replacement.
#### Step 4: Replace the Faulty Thermistor
1. **Remove Old Sensor:** Once diagnosed as faulty, the Thermistor is usually held in place by a simple clip or a friction fitting. Use a flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to gently pry it out of its housing.
2. **Install New Sensor:** Ensure the rubber seal on the new Thermistor is seated properly and clip it securely into the housing.
3. **Reconnect Wires:** Reattach the original wiring harness.
4. **Reassemble and Test:** Replace the access panel, plug the machine back in, turn the water supply on, and run a test cycle. The E71 error should now be cleared.
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### 3. Call to Action
Check the price for a replacement Thermistor here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Electrolux+Thermistor&tag=trivian-20