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Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code E01

RC (Refrigerator Compartment) room temperature sensor reading out of range (≥60°C or ≤-55°C), indicating…

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

RC (Refrigerator Compartment) room temperature sensor reading out of range (≥60°C or ≤-55°C), indicating sensor break, short-circuit, or no contact.

First step from the service manual

Check refrigerator compartment sensor for break/short-circuit/no contact.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E01 means on a Bosch refrigerator

The E01 error code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates that the refrigerator compartment (RC) temperature sensor has reported a reading that falls outside the accepted operating range. Specifically, the sensor is returning a value of 60°C or higher, or -55°C or lower. These extreme readings do not reflect actual compartment conditions. Instead, they indicate an electrical fault within the sensor circuit itself. The RC sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, meaning its resistance changes predictably with temperature. When the control board receives a signal corresponding to an impossible temperature, it flags E01 to alert the technician that the sensor data is unreliable.

The three primary fault conditions that produce E01 are a sensor wire break (open circuit), a short circuit within the sensor or its wiring harness, and a loss of contact at a connector. A wire break causes the sensor circuit to read maximum resistance, which the control board interprets as an extremely low temperature. A short circuit drives resistance to near zero, which registers as an extremely high temperature. Loose or corroded connector pins can produce either symptom intermittently, making diagnosis more challenging. Physical damage to the wiring harness, often caused by ice buildup pressing against wires, is a frequent contributor.

Diagnosis begins with a visual inspection of the sensor and its wiring for obvious breaks, pinched sections, or corrosion at the connector. The sensor's resistance should then be measured with a multimeter and compared against the expected resistance-to-temperature curve for the specific model. A properly functioning NTC thermistor will show a measurable, finite resistance at room temperature, typically in the range of several thousand ohms. An open circuit will read infinite resistance, while a short circuit will read near zero ohms.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E01

  1. 01

    Faulty or failed RC temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The NTC thermistor sensor itself has degraded internally, causing it to send an out-of-range resistance signal to the control board. Confirm by measuring resistance across the sensor terminals; an open or near-zero reading confirms sensor failure.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    A break in the wire leading to the RC sensor creates an open circuit, which the board interprets as an extremely low temperature. Inspect the full length of the wiring harness for cuts, pinches, or areas where ice may have pressed against and damaged the insulation.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded connector

    Wiring / connection

    Poor contact at the sensor connector can cause intermittent or permanent out-of-range readings. Check the connector at the sensor end and at the control board for corrosion, bent pins, or a loose fit.

  4. 04

    Short circuit in the sensor circuit

    Part replacement

    A short circuit within the sensor wiring drives resistance to near zero, which the control board interprets as an extremely high temperature reading. This can result from damaged insulation where two wires contact each other or a metal surface.

  5. 05

    Control board misreading sensor input

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and wiring both test correctly, the control board's sensor input circuit may have failed and is misinterpreting a valid signal. This is less common but should be considered after all wiring and sensor tests are passed.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E01

What does E01 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
E01 means the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor is sending a reading that falls outside the accepted range, specifically 60°C or above, or -55°C or below. The control board treats this as a sensor fault rather than an actual temperature condition. The root cause is typically a broken wire, a short circuit in the sensor circuit, or a failed sensor itself. The refrigerator may not regulate cooling correctly while this fault is active.
Can I fix the E01 error on my Bosch refrigerator myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform basic diagnostic steps such as inspecting the wiring harness, checking connector contacts, and testing sensor resistance with a multimeter. If the sensor itself has failed, replacing it is a straightforward repair involving disconnecting the old sensor and plugging in a new one. However, if the fault traces back to the control board or involves wiring repairs inside the sealed cabinet, professional service is recommended.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator when E01 is displayed?
Operating the refrigerator with an active E01 code is not recommended for extended periods. Because the control board cannot trust the compartment temperature reading, it may not regulate cooling accurately, which could lead to food spoilage. It is best to address the fault promptly and transfer perishables to a backup refrigerator or cooler in the meantime.
Will resetting my Bosch refrigerator clear the E01 error?
A power reset, performed by unplugging the refrigerator for several minutes and restarting it, may temporarily clear the E01 code. However, if the underlying fault in the sensor circuit still exists, the error will return once the control board re-evaluates the sensor signal. A reset alone is not a repair and should only be used to confirm whether the fault is intermittent or persistent.
How much does it cost to repair the E01 error on a Bosch refrigerator?
If only the RC temperature sensor needs replacement, parts typically cost in the range of $20 to $60 depending on the specific model. Adding professional labor, the total repair cost generally falls between $100 and $250. If the wiring harness or control board is also involved, costs can increase significantly, so getting a diagnostic assessment before committing to a repair is advisable.

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