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Error code reference

GE Cooktop Error Code 106

EEPROM failure (hidden to user, no visual alarm).

GE codesGE cooktop codes

EEPROM failure (hidden to user, no visual alarm).

First step from the service manual

Recycle power to the cooktop.

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

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What 106 means on a GE cooktop

Error code 106 on a GE cooktop indicates an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) failure within the main control board. The EEPROM is a small non-volatile memory chip integrated into the control board that stores critical operational data, including calibration settings, user preferences, and appliance configuration parameters. Unlike volatile RAM, the EEPROM retains this data even when power is removed, making it essential for consistent cooktop operation across power cycles.

This fault is classified as a hidden error, meaning it does not trigger a visible display code or audible alarm for the user. The control board detects the failure internally during self-diagnostics, but suppresses any visual notification. This can make the fault difficult to identify without diagnostic tools or knowledge of what symptoms correlate to EEPROM corruption. Common symptoms may include erratic burner behavior, failure to retain settings, or unexpected shutdowns.

EEPROM failures are most often caused by power surges or voltage spikes that corrupt stored data or physically damage the memory chip. They can also result from a faulty control board where the EEPROM has degraded over time due to repeated write cycles or manufacturing defects. Because the EEPROM is soldered directly onto the main control board, it is generally not serviceable as a standalone component and a board replacement is typically required if power cycling does not resolve the fault.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 106

  1. 01

    Power surge or voltage spike

    Wiring / connection

    A sudden surge in electrical power can corrupt the data stored in the EEPROM or damage the chip itself. Check if the issue appeared after a power outage, storm, or circuit disturbance.

  2. 02

    Corrupted EEPROM data

    Wiring / connection

    Over time or after an electrical event, the data written to the EEPROM can become corrupted without physical damage to the chip. A power recycle may allow the control board to reinitialize and restore normal function.

  3. 03

    Failed or degraded control board

    Part replacement

    The EEPROM chip is soldered directly onto the main control board. If the chip has failed due to wear, manufacturing defect, or electrical damage, the entire control board typically must be replaced.

  4. 04

    Loose or intermittent wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    Poor connections to the control board can cause intermittent communication failures that trigger EEPROM-related faults. Inspect all wiring harness connections to the control board for looseness or corrosion.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 106

What does 106 mean on a GE cooktop?
Error code 106 on a GE cooktop indicates an EEPROM failure within the main control board. The EEPROM is the memory chip that stores operational settings and calibration data for the cooktop. This error is hidden from the user, meaning no code or alarm appears on the display, but it is logged internally by the control board's diagnostics.
Will resetting the power clear error code 106 on my GE cooktop?
Recycling power is the recommended first diagnostic step and may resolve the fault if the EEPROM data was temporarily corrupted by a power fluctuation. Turn off the cooktop at the circuit breaker, wait at least 30 seconds, and restore power. If the underlying cause is a physically damaged control board or EEPROM chip, a power reset will not provide a permanent fix.
Is it safe to use my GE cooktop if it has a 106 error?
Because error code 106 is hidden and does not trigger a visible alarm, many users continue operating the cooktop without knowing the fault exists. However, EEPROM failure can cause unpredictable control behavior, so it is advisable to diagnose and resolve the issue before continued heavy use. If the cooktop is behaving erratically, discontinue use until the fault is addressed.
How much does it cost to fix a 106 error on a GE cooktop?
If a power reset resolves the issue, there is no parts cost involved. If the main control board requires replacement, parts alone typically range from around $80 to $250 or more depending on the specific cooktop model, with additional labor costs if a technician performs the repair. Getting a diagnosis before ordering parts is recommended to confirm the control board is the source of the fault.
Can I replace just the EEPROM chip instead of the whole control board on a GE cooktop?
The EEPROM chip is soldered directly to the main control board and is not offered as a separate serviceable component through standard repair channels. Replacing the individual chip requires micro-soldering skills and specialized equipment, which is outside the scope of most appliance repairs. In practice, replacing the entire control board is the standard repair approach when the EEPROM has physically failed.

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