Tumble Dryer
F04
The F04 error code on a Miele tumble dryer indicates a fault with the NTC temperature sensor or its circuit — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your dryer from operating safely until it’s resolved.
What does this error mean?
The F04 code means your Miele dryer’s control board is detecting an abnormal reading from the NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor, which monitors drum air temperature during the drying cycle. When this sensor fails or its wiring is compromised, the dryer cannot regulate heat correctly and shuts down as a safety precaution. This is a protective feature — the machine is preventing potential overheating rather than running blind.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £10–£25 DIY NTC sensor part if self-replacing
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the dryer: Switch it off at the wall, wait 10 minutes, then turn it back on. If F04 clears and doesn’t return, it was a temporary sensor glitch — monitor closely over the next few cycles.
Clean the fluff filter thoroughly: Remove it, rinse under warm water, and let it dry completely before reinserting. A blocked filter causes heat build-up that can trigger temperature sensor faults.
Check and clean the heat exchanger (condenser): On condenser models, open the bottom panel, remove the heat exchanger, and rinse it under a tap to clear lint build-up. Refer to your model’s manual for exact location.
Inspect the exhaust duct (vented models): Ensure the external vent hose is not kinked, crushed, or blocked — restricted airflow causes temperature irregularities that mirror sensor faults.
If the error persists after all cleaning steps, the NTC sensor itself is likely failed. The sensor is a low-cost part (£10–£25) but accessing it requires removing the dryer’s back or side panel — if you’re confident working with appliances and have unplugged the machine, this is a manageable DIY replacement. Otherwise, call a technician.
Do NOT attempt to bypass or disconnect the NTC sensor to ‘get the dryer running’ — this removes a critical safety control and risks overheating or fire.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a qualified appliance engineer if the F04 fault returns after cleaning, or if you’re not comfortable opening the appliance casing to inspect the sensor wiring. When you call, tell them: ‘My Miele tumble dryer is showing error code F04 — I believe it’s an NTC temperature sensor fault.’ This will help them arrive with the right part and cut down labour time.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an F04 fault — typically NTC sensor replacement plus diagnostics — will cost around £80–£150 in the UK including parts and labour. If your Miele dryer is under 8 years old and otherwise reliable, repair is almost always worth it given Miele’s build quality and the relatively low repair cost. If the machine is over 10 years old and this isn’t the first fault, a replacement dryer (£400–£900 for a comparable Miele) may offer better long-term value.