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Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code 0606

FF IM continues to sense bucket full after ice dispense

GE codesGE refrigerator codes

FF IM continues to sense bucket full after ice dispense

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What 0606 means on a GE refrigerator

Error code 0606 on a GE refrigerator indicates that the French Door (FF) ice maker is continuing to sense a full ice bucket even after ice has been dispensed. The ice maker relies on a bucket-full detection mechanism, typically an optical sensor or a feeler arm assembly, to determine when the ice storage bin has reached capacity. When this sensor fails to register that ice was successfully dispensed and the bin level has dropped, the control board interprets the bucket as still full and halts further ice production.

The most common root cause is a failure or misalignment of the ice level sensing system. Optical sensors can become blocked by ice shards, frost buildup, or freezer condensation that coats the emitter or receiver lens. A feeler arm, if present, may be stuck in the raised position due to ice bridging or mechanical binding. In either case, the sensor is sending a continuous "full" signal to the ice maker control board regardless of the actual ice level in the bucket.

Additional causes include a faulty ice maker control module that is misinterpreting sensor signals, a wiring harness issue causing an open or short circuit between the sensor and the board, or a damaged sensor component that requires replacement. Technicians should begin by inspecting the bucket and sensing components for ice obstructions, verifying sensor alignment, and checking wiring continuity before condemning the control board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 0606

  1. 01

    Frost or ice buildup on the optical sensor

    Wiring / connection

    The ice level sensor's emitter or receiver lens can become coated with frost or blocked by stray ice chips, causing it to continuously report a full bin. Inspect the sensor lenses inside the freezer compartment for visible frost or debris and clean them carefully.

  2. 02

    Ice bridge or clumping in the bucket

    Wiring / connection

    Ice cubes can fuse together into a mass that holds the feeler arm in the raised position or blocks the optical sensor path, mimicking a full bucket. Remove the ice bucket and break up or discard any clumped ice before reinstalling.

  3. 03

    Misaligned or stuck feeler arm

    Wiring / connection

    If the ice maker uses a mechanical feeler arm, the arm may be physically stuck in the up position due to ice interference or mechanical wear. Check that the arm moves freely and returns to its down position when the bucket is empty.

  4. 04

    Faulty ice level sensor

    Part replacement

    The optical sensor or sensing assembly itself may have failed electrically and is sending a constant full signal regardless of bin conditions. If cleaning and physical inspection do not resolve the issue, sensor replacement is likely needed.

  5. 05

    Defective ice maker control module

    Part replacement

    If the sensor tests correctly and wiring shows no faults, the ice maker control board may be misinterpreting sensor input and incorrectly latching the full-bucket condition. Replacing the control module would be the next diagnostic step.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 0606

What does 0606 mean on a GE refrigerator?
Error code 0606 on a GE refrigerator means the French Door ice maker is continuing to detect a full ice bucket even after ice has been dispensed. This prevents the ice maker from producing new ice. The issue typically points to a problem with the ice level sensing system, such as a frosted sensor, clumped ice, or a faulty sensor component.
How do I fix error code 0606 on my GE refrigerator?
Start by removing the ice bucket and inspecting it for clumped or bridged ice, then clean the ice level sensor lenses inside the freezer compartment with a soft cloth. Reinstall the bucket and confirm the feeler arm or sensor path is clear and unobstructed. If the error returns, further diagnosis of the sensor wiring and the ice maker control module will be needed, which may require part replacement.
Is it safe to use my GE refrigerator while error code 0606 is active?
Yes, error code 0606 affects only the ice maker function and does not indicate a risk to food safety or refrigerator operation. Your refrigerator will continue to cool normally. However, the ice maker will not produce new ice until the fault is resolved.
Will resetting my GE refrigerator clear the 0606 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error code, but if the underlying cause such as a blocked sensor or faulty component is not addressed, the code will return once the ice maker runs through its cycle again. It is best to diagnose and correct the root cause before relying on a reset.
How much does it cost to repair a GE refrigerator with error code 0606?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If the fix is simply cleaning frost off the sensor or breaking up clumped ice, there is no parts cost involved. If the ice level sensor needs replacement, parts typically range from $20 to $80 depending on the model. If the ice maker control module is at fault, parts and labor combined could range from $150 to $350 or more.

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