mypros+
Error code reference

GE Washer Error Code C

Lid Switch Redundancy

GE codesGE washer codes
Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the C error code actually means

Your GE washer has detected that its safety lid sensor gave conflicting readings during the last three wash cycles, and it is now refusing to start a fourth cycle until the issue is acknowledged. Think of it as the machine noticing that something about the lid closure has not been registering correctly and putting itself on hold as a precaution. Opening and closing the lid may clear the error, but if it keeps coming back, the lid switch or its wiring likely needs attention.

Diagnostic procedure

The full C procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Open and close the lid to clear the error.
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock C procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of C

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Faulty or worn lid switch
  2. 2Misaligned or damaged lid strike
  3. 3Loose or corroded wiring at the lid switch connector
  4. 4Backup microprocessor communication failure
  5. 5Debris or obstruction around the lid switch area

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

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

Questions people ask about C

What does C mean on a GE washer?
Error code C on a GE washer signals a Lid Switch Redundancy fault. It appears when you attempt to start a fourth cycle after the backup microprocessor registered the lid as open during each of the previous three completed cycles. The washer locks out to prevent continued operation with a potential lid safety issue. Opening and closing the lid is the first step to clearing the error.
Is it safe to keep using my GE washer when the C error code appears?
The washer intentionally blocks the start of a new cycle when code C appears, which is itself a safety precaution. The lid switch system is designed to prevent the machine from spinning with the lid open. Repeatedly clearing the code and running cycles without fixing the underlying problem means the lid safety circuit may not be operating reliably, so the issue should be diagnosed and repaired promptly.
Can I reset the C error code on a GE washer by unplugging it?
Unplugging the washer to cut power may reset some error codes, but for code C the recommended first step is specifically to open and close the lid, which resets the redundancy counter in the control system. A power cycle alone may not clear the fault in the same way. Either way, if the lid switch or wiring problem is not corrected, the code will return after three subsequent cycles.
Will opening and closing the lid fix the C error code?
Opening and closing the lid can clear the error code and reset the redundancy counter, allowing the washer to start again. However, this only addresses the symptom, not the root cause. If the lid switch or its wiring is faulty, the code will return after three more cycles. A lasting fix requires diagnosing and repairing the underlying switch or control issue.
How much does it cost to repair a GE washer lid switch that causes the C error?
Lid switch replacement parts for GE top-load washers typically range from around $15 to $60 depending on the specific model. If you hire a technician, labor and diagnostic fees can bring the total repair cost to roughly $100 to $200. If the issue turns out to be the main control board rather than the switch itself, costs will be higher, generally in the $200 to $400 range including parts and labor.

Related GE washer error codes

All GE washer codes

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

Get Started

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