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Samsung · Dryer

E4

Moisture Sensor Error

Severity
Low

Seeing E4 on your Samsung Dryer display means the appliance self-diagnostic detected "Moisture Sensor Error". Before calling a technician, work through the steps in this guide — the fix is often simpler than you think.

Owner's Summary

Your dryer's moisture sensor — two small metal bars inside the drum — has a film of residue on it from dryer sheets or fabric softener. This makes it misjudge how dry your clothes are. Wiping the bars with rubbing alcohol is a free fix that works most of the time.

Symptoms

Samsung dryer ending cycles too early or too late, E4 error code

Common Causes

  • Moisture sensor strips coated with fabric softener residue
  • Dirty or oxidized sensor bars inside the drum
  • Wiring fault to moisture sensor
  • Sensor module failure

How to Fix

  1. 1 Clean the two metal moisture sensor bars inside the drum with rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth
  2. 2 Avoid using dryer sheets directly against the sensor area
  3. 3 Inspect wiring harness to the sensor module
  4. 4 Replace sensor module if cleaning does not resolve the issue

Tools You'll Need

Flashlight

These are simple, low-risk fixes most homeowners can do with tools already in a basic toolbox.

Technical Explanation

The moisture sensor bars measure electrical conductivity through damp fabric contacting both bars simultaneously. A residue film insulates the bars, causing inconsistent or zero conductivity readings regardless of actual moisture, triggering E4.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

No safety risk. Clothes may come out over or under-dried until fixed.

Technician's Pro Tip

Fabric softener sheets are the #1 cause of moisture sensor problems — they leave a waxy film. Switch to liquid fabric softener in the wash cycle instead, or wipe the sensor bars every few weeks with alcohol.

Related Codes

E2 — Samsung Washing Machine

Water Supply Error

High
4E — Samsung Washing Machine

No Water Supply Detected

High
5E — Samsung Washing Machine

Drain Error — Water Not Draining

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code E4 mean on a Samsung Dryer?
Code E4 on a Samsung Dryer indicates "Moisture Sensor Error." In practice, the most common trigger is moisture sensor strips coated with fabric softener residue. Severity is rated low, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $100.
Can I fix E4 myself, or do I need a technician?
Many cases of E4 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: clean the two metal moisture sensor bars inside the drum with rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.
Is it safe to keep using my dryer with code E4 showing?
No safety risk. Clothes may come out over or under-dried until fixed.
How much does it cost to repair E4 on a Samsung Dryer?
Repair costs for code E4 typically range from $0 to $100. Cleaning: $0; Sensor module: $20–$60; Labor: $40–$100. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.
Estimated Repair Cost USD
$0 – $100

Cleaning: $0; Sensor module: $20–$60; Labor: $40–$100