mypros+
Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code Er Ea

Motor for ice cube tray is defective.

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

Motor for ice cube tray is defective.

First step from the service manual

Test function on the ice maker (green pushbutton).

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for Er Ea.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What Er Ea means on a Bosch refrigerator

The Er Ea error code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates that the motor responsible for rotating or tilting the ice cube tray in the ice maker assembly has been detected as defective or non-functional. This motor drives the tray through its twist-and-release cycle to eject formed ice cubes into the storage bin. When the control board sends a signal to operate the tray motor and receives no response or an out-of-range feedback signal, it logs the Er Ea fault and may halt ice production entirely.

The most direct diagnostic starting point is testing the ice maker function using the green pushbutton located on the ice maker unit itself. Pressing this button initiates a forced harvest cycle, which allows a technician to observe whether the tray motor attempts to turn, stalls, or does nothing at all. A motor that is seized, has an open winding, or has failed internal components will not respond during this test. Listening for any humming or clicking during the forced cycle can help distinguish a seized motor from one with an open circuit.

Common causes include physical ice jams locking the tray and burning out the motor windings, wiring harness faults between the control board and the motor, and outright motor winding failure due to age or thermal stress. Because this code points specifically to the tray motor rather than the ice maker's thermistor or harvest heater, the diagnostic path is relatively focused. Resolving the fault typically requires either clearing a mechanical obstruction or replacing the tray motor or the ice maker assembly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Er Ea

  1. 01

    Failed tray motor windings

    Part replacement

    Over time, the motor windings can burn out or develop an open circuit, preventing the motor from turning at all. During a forced harvest cycle test, no movement or sound from the tray motor points to this failure.

  2. 02

    Ice jam seizing the tray motor

    Wiring / connection

    Ice buildup inside the tray cavity can lock the tray in place and stall the motor. Inspect the ice maker compartment for excess frost or fused ice blocking tray rotation.

  3. 03

    Damaged or disconnected wiring harness

    Wiring / connection

    The connector or wiring between the ice maker control board and the tray motor can crack, corrode, or pull loose, cutting power to the motor. Inspect the harness for visible damage, corrosion at the connector pins, or loose connections.

  4. 04

    Defective ice maker assembly

    Part replacement

    In some cases the tray motor itself is not serviceable separately and the entire ice maker module must be replaced. If the motor tests faulty and wiring checks out, a full assembly replacement is needed.

  5. 05

    Control board not sending signal to motor

    Part replacement

    If the ice maker control board has failed, it may not be sending the correct drive signal to the tray motor even though the motor itself is intact. This is less common but should be considered after the motor and wiring have been confirmed to be in good condition.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Er Ea

What does Er Ea mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
Er Ea means the refrigerator has detected a defective or non-functioning motor for the ice cube tray in the ice maker assembly. The control board monitors the tray motor during harvest cycles and logs this fault when the motor does not respond correctly. Ice production will typically stop until the fault is resolved. The first step in diagnosing it is pressing the green pushbutton on the ice maker to trigger a test cycle.
Can I fix the Er Ea error myself?
Some causes, such as an ice jam locking the tray, can be cleared by defrosting the ice maker compartment without replacing any parts. However, if the tray motor itself has failed or the wiring harness is damaged, replacing components is required. Technicians familiar with disassembling ice maker modules can often complete the repair, but it does involve accessing internal components and handling electrical connectors.
Is it safe to keep using the refrigerator when Er Ea is displayed?
The Er Ea fault is isolated to the ice maker system and does not affect the refrigerator or freezer cooling functions, so food safety is not at risk. You can continue using the refrigerator normally while the repair is pending. However, the ice maker will not produce ice until the fault is cleared and the tray motor issue is resolved.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the Er Ea code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but if the tray motor is mechanically or electrically faulty, the code will return as soon as the ice maker attempts another harvest cycle. Resetting is useful for ruling out a one-time control glitch, but a persistent Er Ea code requires hands-on diagnosis and repair of the motor or related components.
How much does it cost to repair the Er Ea error on a Bosch refrigerator?
Repair costs depend on whether the issue is a simple obstruction or requires parts replacement. If only a defrost and jam clearing is needed, costs may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the tray motor or full ice maker assembly needs replacement, total parts and labor costs generally fall in the range of $150 to $400 depending on the specific model and local labor rates.

Related Bosch refrigerator codes

All Bosch refrigerator codes
View all 209 Bosch refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass