mypros+
Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code Turbidity Sensor No Signal

Turbidity sensor counter did not receive pulses from sensor.

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Turbidity sensor counter did not receive pulses from sensor.

First step from the service manual

Check turbidity sensor, LED, receiver, and wiring connections.

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 Turbidity Sensor No Signal.

  • 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 Turbidity Sensor No Signal means on a GE dishwasher

The Turbidity Sensor No Signal error on a GE dishwasher means the control board's turbidity sensor counter is not receiving any pulses from the turbidity sensor during the wash cycle. The turbidity sensor is an optical device that monitors water clarity by shining an LED beam through the wash water and measuring the light received on the opposite side. As the water becomes dirtier, less light reaches the receiver, and the sensor generates a pulse-based signal that the control board uses to adjust wash duration and water temperature. When the counter receives zero pulses, the control board interprets this as a complete loss of signal from the sensor.

The turbidity sensor system consists of three main components: the LED emitter, the optical receiver, and the wiring harness that connects both to the control board. A failure in any of these components can interrupt the pulse signal entirely. The most common points of failure are a fouled or coated sensor lens, a burned-out LED, a failed receiver, or a wiring connection that has corroded or come loose at either the sensor connector or the control board header.

Diagnosing this code requires inspecting the sensor assembly for physical contamination or damage, checking continuity through the wiring harness, and verifying that the LED is actually energizing during the wash cycle. Because the sensor relies on optical transmission through water, even a thin film of grease or mineral scale on the lens can completely block the signal and trigger this error without any electrical fault being present.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Turbidity Sensor No Signal

  1. 01

    Contaminated Sensor Lens

    Wiring / connection

    Grease, mineral scale, or food residue coating the optical lens of the turbidity sensor can completely block the LED signal from reaching the receiver. Inspect the sensor face for visible buildup and clean it carefully with a soft cloth and mild detergent.

  2. 02

    Loose or Corroded Wiring Connection

    Wiring / connection

    A disconnected or corroded connector at the turbidity sensor plug or at the control board can interrupt the pulse signal entirely. Check both ends of the sensor wiring harness for loose pins, corrosion, or moisture intrusion.

  3. 03

    Failed Turbidity Sensor LED

    Part replacement

    The LED emitter inside the sensor assembly can burn out, preventing any light from passing through the water to the receiver. If the lens is clean and wiring is intact, the LED output should be tested; a failed LED requires replacing the sensor assembly.

  4. 04

    Failed Optical Receiver

    Part replacement

    The receiver side of the turbidity sensor may fail independently of the LED, leaving it unable to generate pulses even when light is present. This also requires replacing the sensor assembly.

  5. 05

    Damaged Wiring Harness

    Part replacement

    A broken wire in the harness between the turbidity sensor and the control board can cut the signal path completely. Inspect the harness for pinch points, burn marks, or breaks, and test continuity along each wire.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Turbidity Sensor No Signal

What does Turbidity Sensor No Signal mean on a GE dishwasher?
This error means the control board is not receiving any pulse signals from the turbidity sensor, which is the optical component that monitors water clarity during the wash cycle. The sensor uses an LED and a light receiver to track how dirty the water is and adjusts the wash accordingly. When the pulse counter reads zero, the control board flags the error to indicate the sensor system has stopped communicating. The cause is typically a dirty sensor lens, a failed LED or receiver, or a wiring connection problem.
Can I fix the Turbidity Sensor No Signal error myself?
In many cases, yes. Start by locating the turbidity sensor, which is typically mounted in the sump area of the dishwasher tub, and cleaning the optical lens thoroughly to remove grease or scale. Also check that all wiring connectors to the sensor are fully seated and free of corrosion. If cleaning and reseating connections do not resolve the error, the sensor assembly itself likely needs to be replaced, which is a moderate DIY repair involving accessing the sump area.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the Turbidity Sensor No Signal error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but it will return if the underlying problem is not fixed. The control board will check the turbidity sensor again as soon as the next wash cycle begins, and if pulses are still absent, the error will reappear. Address the root cause first before relying on a reset.
Is it safe to keep using my GE dishwasher with this error?
The dishwasher may still run cycles while this error is present, but it cannot properly adjust wash performance without turbidity sensor feedback. This could result in dishes being washed with suboptimal water conditions, either under-washing or wasting water and energy. It is best to diagnose and resolve the error promptly rather than running repeated cycles in a degraded state.
How much does it cost to repair the Turbidity Sensor No Signal error on a GE dishwasher?
If the fix is simply cleaning the sensor lens or reseating a wiring connector, the cost is minimal, covering only your time. If the turbidity sensor assembly needs to be replaced, parts typically range from $20 to $60 depending on the specific model. Professional labor to diagnose and replace the sensor would add roughly $100 to $200 to that total, depending on your local service rates.

Related GE dishwasher codes

All GE dishwasher codes
View all 222 GE dishwasher codes

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

Get Started

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