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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code F51

Temperature sensor low

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Temperature sensor low - temperature sensing or stuck at a low reading.

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What F51 means on a GE dishwasher

F51 on a GE dishwasher indicates the control board has detected an abnormally low signal from the thermistor, the temperature sensor that monitors water temperature during the wash cycle. The thermistor sends a resistance-based signal to the control board; when that signal falls outside the expected low-end threshold, the board interprets it as a sensor failure rather than a legitimately cold reading. This trips F51 and typically halts normal cycle operation. The fault can originate from the thermistor itself, its wiring harness, or the connector where the sensor ties into the main wiring circuit.

For homeowners: the thermistor is a small sensor, usually located near the sump at the bottom of the dishwasher, that tells the machine how hot the water is. Without accurate temperature data, the dishwasher cannot control heating properly and will stop to protect itself. The error does not necessarily mean the sensor is broken; a loose or corroded connector pin can produce the same low signal and is worth checking first before replacing any parts.

Start by inspecting the thermistor wiring harness for damage, pinching, or corrosion, and reseat the connectors firmly. If the wiring checks out, test the thermistor resistance with a multimeter. GE thermistors typically read around 50,000 ohms at room temperature; a reading near zero or open circuit confirms a failed sensor.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F51

  1. 01

    Failed thermistor (temperature sensor)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself has shorted internally, causing it to output a resistance value below the control board's acceptable minimum. A shorted thermistor will read near zero ohms on a multimeter and must be replaced.

  2. 02

    Loose or corroded thermistor connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector between the thermistor and the wiring harness has backed out or developed corrosion, creating a poor electrical connection that mimics a low-resistance fault. Reseating or cleaning the connector can resolve this without replacing any parts.

  3. 03

    Damaged thermistor wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the thermistor and the control board has been pinched, burned, or chafed, causing the conductors to short to each other or to ground. Visual inspection along the full wire run will usually reveal the damage point.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all wiring test within spec but F51 persists, the input circuit on the control board responsible for reading the thermistor signal may have failed. This is the least common cause and should only be suspected after the sensor and wiring have been verified.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F51

What does F51 mean on a GE dishwasher?
F51 means the control board has detected a temperature sensor (thermistor) reading that is abnormally low, below the range the board considers valid. This usually points to a shorted thermistor, a damaged wire in the sensor circuit, or a loose connector at the thermistor plug. The machine stops normal operation because it cannot reliably monitor water temperature.
How do I fix the F51 error code on my GE dishwasher?
Start by unplugging the dishwasher and locating the thermistor near the sump at the tub base. Unplug and firmly reseat the thermistor connector, then restore power and run a cycle to see if the code clears. If it returns, test thermistor resistance with a multimeter; a good sensor reads roughly 40,000 to 60,000 ohms at room temperature. A reading near zero indicates a shorted sensor that needs replacement. Also inspect the full wiring run from the sensor to the control board for any pinched or burned spots.
Can I still use my GE dishwasher when it shows F51?
Running the dishwasher with an active F51 is not advisable. Without reliable temperature data, the control board cannot regulate the heating element safely or ensure water reaches sanitizing temperatures. In most cases the machine will halt mid-cycle anyway. Use the dishwasher only after the fault is resolved to avoid potential overheating or incomplete wash results.
How much does it cost to fix the F51 error on a GE dishwasher?
If the fix is simply reseating a connector, there is no parts cost and the repair takes under 30 minutes. A replacement thermistor typically costs between $15 and $40 for the part. If a wiring harness section needs replacement, parts run $20 to $60 depending on the model. A control board, if it comes to that, ranges from $80 to $200. Adding professional labor, expect $100 to $200 for a service call on top of parts costs.
How do I test the thermistor on a GE dishwasher to diagnose F51?
Disconnect power to the dishwasher before testing. Locate the thermistor near the sump assembly, unplug its connector, and place multimeter probes across the two thermistor terminals. At room temperature (around 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) a functional GE thermistor should read approximately 40,000 to 60,000 ohms. A reading of zero or near zero ohms indicates an internal short and confirms the thermistor needs to be replaced. An open circuit (infinite resistance) points to a broken wire or open sensor, which would typically trigger a different high-reading fault code.

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