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Kenmore Dryer E3 / F1E3 Error Code
Control panel and main board don't match on Kenmore dryers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore dryer codes
The user interface and main control board don't recognize each other as a matching pair. This nearly always follows a repair where the wrong replacement part was installed. The cure is fitting the board that's listed for your exact model.
Compatible models
Kenmore 110-series electronic control dryers (E3) and Kenmore 110 model VMAX dryers (F1 E3), per Sears PartsDirect.
Also shown as
E3 on 110-series electronic control dryers; F1 E3 on the 110 VMAX, where it's described as the wrong control board being installed.
Difficulty
Try the basic checks, but the usual fix is a technician's job.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore dryer codes.
How to fix Kenmore E3 / F1E3
Think back to recent repairs
If a board or panel was replaced shortly before the code appeared, that part is the likely mismatch. Keep the old part and its packaging.
Compare part numbers
Look up the parts list for your full model number (on the label inside the door or on the back) and compare it with the number printed on the part that was installed.
When to call a technician
Return the wrong part and have the correct one installed. If nothing has been replaced recently, a technician should diagnose why the boards disagree.
Parts linked to E3 / F1E3
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the E3 / F1E3 code?
Kenmore 110-series electronic control dryers (E3) and Kenmore 110 model VMAX dryers (F1 E3), per Sears PartsDirect.
Can I fix Kenmore E3 / F1E3 myself?
Only the basic checks. You can safely try the steps above, but E3 / F1E3 usually points to a part or fault that needs a technician.
Other Kenmore dryer codes
- AF / F30 / F4E3Exhaust airflow is restricted
- PFPower went out during a cycle
- F31 / F4E4Low or missing voltage on one leg (electric dryers)
- F01 / F1E1Main control board fault
- F02 / F2E1A button on the panel is stuck
- F22 / F23 / F3E1Exhaust thermistor fault
- F24 / F25 / F3E3Inlet thermistor fault
- F28 / F29 / F3E2Moisture sensor fault
- F20 / F21 / F4E1 / F4E2Heater relay fault
- F70 / F71 / F6E2 / F6E3Control boards have stopped talking to each other
- E1 / E2 / tE1 / tE2Thermistor fault on 110 electronic and 796 dryers
- dEDoor switch problem on 796 dryers
- E10 / E11 / E12 / EAFControl board fault on 417 dryers
- E24 / E25Temperature sensor fault on 417 dryers
- E4A / E5BNo heat or drying takes too long (417 dryers)
- E8CHigh-limit thermostat keeps tripping (417 dryers)
- F40 to F46Blower system fault on the Elite Oasis
- F26Drive motor fault on the Elite Oasis
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.