GE Refrigerator Error Code 0513

Code 0513 means the control board detected that the ice box thermistor is returning a resistance value outside its expected range. The ice box thermistor monitors temperature inside the ice maker compartment. The code triggers when the sensor reads as an open circuit, a short circuit, or an out-of-range resistance, signaling that the board can no longer get a valid temperature reading from that location.

The refrigerator's freezer and fresh food compartments typically continue operating because they rely on separate thermistors. However, the ice maker may stop producing ice, overproduce, or behave unpredictably since the control board cannot monitor ice box temperature accurately. Short-term use is generally safe for food storage, but leaving the fault unresolved for an extended period risks ice maker damage and should be addressed promptly.

Clearing the code by unplugging the refrigerator will erase the fault from the display temporarily, but the code will return if the underlying cause has not been corrected. The control board re-evaluates the thermistor signal continuously and will log 0513 again as soon as it detects an out-of-range reading. Use the code clear only as a way to confirm a repair was successful after you have addressed the thermistor, wiring, or connector.

Start by unplugging the refrigerator and locating the ice box thermistor connector. Inspect the wiring harness for breaks, pinching, or corrosion, and reseat the connector firmly. If the harness looks intact, use a multimeter to measure the thermistor's resistance and compare it to the spec in your model's service manual. A reading of open line or near-zero ohms confirms a bad thermistor that needs replacement. If the thermistor tests within spec, the main control board may need to be replaced.

If only the ice box thermistor needs replacement, the part typically costs between $15 and $40, and replacing it is a manageable DIY repair requiring basic tools and a multimeter. If the wiring harness needs repair, cost depends on whether a new harness is required or the existing wires can be spliced, usually under $30 in parts. A main control board replacement is the most expensive scenario, with parts ranging from $100 to $300 depending on the model, plus labor if you hire a technician.