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Kenmore Dryer F28 / F29 / F3E2 Error Code
Moisture sensor fault on Kenmore dryers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore dryer codes
Two thin metal sensor bars inside the drum, on the drum wall or built into the lint filter housing, tell the control how damp the clothes are. When their circuit looks wrong, sensor cycles can't judge dryness. A coin, key or other metal object bridging the bars can trigger it, as can a loose harness.
Compatible models
Sears PartsDirect lists it for Kenmore Elite and Elite Oasis dryers and for the 110 model VMAX.
Also shown as
F:28 or F:29 on Elite models, F-28 or F29 on the Elite Oasis, and F3 E2 on the 110 VMAX.
Difficulty
Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore dryer codes.
How to fix Kenmore F28 / F29 / F3E2
Check the bars for stray metal
Open the door and find the two metal strips. Remove any coin, hairpin or zipper pull touching both, and check the drum and lint screen slot for loose metal.
Clean the bars
Unplug the dryer. Sears PartsDirect suggests wiping the bars with a soft cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to lift softener residue; skip abrasive pads and cleaners.
Compare with a Timed Dry
Run a load on Timed Dry, which stops after the minutes you set. If timed drying works fine while sensor cycles don't, Sears PartsDirect points to the sensor rather than the heat or airflow, and you can keep drying this way until it's repaired.
When to call a technician
A code that returns with clean, clear bars means the harness between the sensor and main board needs checking, and the sensor may have to be replaced.
Parts linked to F28 / F29 / F3E2
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 F28 / F29 / F3E2 code?
Sears PartsDirect lists it for Kenmore Elite and Elite Oasis dryers and for the 110 model VMAX.
Can I fix Kenmore F28 / F29 / F3E2 myself?
Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear F28 / F29 / F3E2, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.
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
- 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
- E3 / F1E3Control panel and main board don't match
- 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.