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Error code reference

GE Microwave Error Code SENSOR ERROR

During sensor cooking functions (Popcorn, Reheat, Beverage, Chicken/Fish, Potato, or Vegetables), the door was opened before steam could be detected…

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What the SENSOR ERROR error code actually means

This error appears when you open the microwave door too early during a Sensor Cook cycle, before the microwave has had a chance to detect steam coming from your food. The microwave uses a humidity sensor to 'smell' the moisture in the air and figure out how much longer to cook, but opening the door lets that steam escape before the sensor can do its job. To fix this, simply close the door and restart the Sensor Cook cycle, letting it run without interruption until the sensor can detect steam from the food.

Diagnostic procedure

The full SENSOR ERROR procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Close the door, press STOP/CLEAR and start again. If food is undercooked after countdown, use Timed Cook to increase cooking time.
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Most common causes of SENSOR ERROR

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Door opened before steam detection
  2. 2Contaminated or coated humidity sensor
  3. 3Faulty humidity sensor
  4. 4Defective control board

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Questions people ask about SENSOR ERROR

What does SENSOR ERROR mean on a GE microwave?
SENSOR ERROR means the oven door was opened during a Sensor cooking cycle before the humidity sensor inside the cavity detected steam from the food. The Sensor feature needs to read rising steam to calculate cook time. Opening the door before the countdown timer appears on the display interrupts this process and triggers the error.
Can I still use my GE microwave when it shows SENSOR ERROR?
Yes. The SENSOR ERROR only affects Sensor cooking functions. You can still use all standard timed cooking modes, defrost by weight or time, and other non-sensor features without issue. The error does not indicate a safety problem with the microwave itself.
Why does my GE microwave keep showing SENSOR ERROR even when I don't open the door?
A persistent SENSOR ERROR with the door closed points to a contaminated or failed humidity sensor. Wipe down the entire interior cavity, paying close attention to any vents or ports near the top of the oven cavity where the sensor is typically located. If cleaning does not clear the error, use a multimeter to test the humidity sensor for proper resistance output, or replace the sensor directly, as it is the most common failed component in this scenario.
How do I fix SENSOR ERROR on a GE microwave?
Start the Sensor Cook or Sensor Reheat cycle again and do not open the door until the display shows a countdown timer, which means steam has been detected. If the error appears on every Sensor cycle even when you keep the door closed, clean the interior of the microwave thoroughly to remove any grease or residue near the sensor port. If cleaning does not resolve it, the humidity sensor likely needs replacement.
How much does it cost to fix SENSOR ERROR on a GE microwave?
If the cause is simply door timing, the fix costs nothing. If the humidity sensor needs replacement, the part typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on the model, and it is accessible to a confident DIYer with basic disassembly skills. A control board replacement is more expensive, ranging from $80 to $200 or more for the part, and professional diagnosis is advisable before committing to board replacement.

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