Whirlpool Temperature Sensor (W10316760)

The Whirlpool Temperature Sensor measures internal temperature and sends that signal to the appliance control. The control uses this input to regulate heating and cooling, time cycles, and protect against over- or under-temperature conditions. If the sensor reads wrong or stops sending a stable signal, the appliance may not control temperature as intended.

Common failures include sensor drift from age and repeated heat exposure, moisture intrusion, and wiring or connector problems that add resistance or cause an open circuit. Physical damage to the sensor body or harness can also lead to erratic readings. In some cases, corrosion at the connector creates intermittent operation that comes and goes during use.

These symptoms can help you decide if this temperature sensor is the source of the problem:

• Temperature runs too hot or too cold compared with the setting
• Heating or cooling cycles are irregular, short, or overly long
• Error codes related to temperature sensing, thermistor, or temperature circuit
• Appliance stops mid-cycle due to temperature not reaching target
• Overheating, poor drying, or weak cooling tied to unstable temperature control
• Intermittent operation that changes when the harness is moved