Tumble Dryer
F13
The F13 error code on a Miele tumble dryer indicates a fault with the NTC temperature sensor in the drum circuit — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your dryer from running safely until it’s resolved.
What does this error mean?
The F13 code means your dryer’s control board is receiving an abnormal reading from the NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor, which monitors drum air temperature during the drying cycle. When the sensor reads a temperature that falls outside the expected range — either too high, too low, or no signal at all — the machine shuts down as a safety precaution. This prevents overheating damage to your laundry or the appliance itself.
Est. repair cost
£90–£180 professional repair (call-out + sensor); £10–£25 DIY sensor part only
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Step 1 — Reset the dryer: Switch the machine off at the wall, leave it unplugged for 10 minutes, then power it back on and run a short cycle. A temporary thermal trip will often clear itself this way.
Step 2 — Clean the lint filter: Remove and thoroughly clean the lint filter inside the door. A clogged filter is one of the most common causes of temperature sensor faults on Miele dryers.
Step 3 — Clean the condenser unit (heat pump or condenser models): Locate the condenser drawer at the bottom front of the machine, remove it, and rinse it under the tap until water runs clear. Allow it to dry fully before refitting. Do this every 3–4 cycles ideally.
Step 4 — Check and clean the heat exchanger vents: On condenser models, inspect the housing behind the condenser drawer for lint build-up and vacuum it out carefully with a nozzle attachment.
Step 5 — Inspect the NTC sensor wiring (confident DIYers only): If you are comfortable doing so, carefully remove the back panel of the dryer (unplug the machine first). Locate the NTC sensor on the drum outlet duct and check that its wiring connector is firmly seated and free of corrosion. Reseat if loose. Do NOT proceed further unless you are experienced — if in doubt, call an engineer.
Step 6 — Replace the NTC sensor: If the fault persists after all of the above, the NTC sensor itself (part cost typically £10–£25 for Miele-compatible sensors) is the most likely culprit. This is a manageable DIY repair if you are confident with appliance disassembly, but call a professional if you are unsure.
📞 When to call a professional
If the fault returns after cleaning all filters and resetting the machine, or if you are not confident opening the appliance, call a Miele-approved or reputable local appliance engineer. Tell them: ‘My Miele tumble dryer is displaying error code F13 — I suspect a faulty NTC temperature sensor or wiring issue.’ A professional can test the sensor’s resistance with a multimeter and identify whether the PCB also needs attention.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an F13 fault — typically sensor replacement plus a call-out — will cost around £90–£180 in the UK. Miele dryers are premium, long-life appliances; if yours is under 8–10 years old and otherwise in good condition, repair is almost always the right call. If the machine is over 10 years old and the repair cost exceeds 50% of a comparable replacement, consider replacing with a new model.