GE Washer Error Code COM ERROR

COM ERROR on a GE washer indicates that the main control board has failed its internal serial communication self-diagnostic test. This test runs during Factory Test Mode when the TEST SOFTENER VALVE function is activated. The fault is internal to the main board, meaning the board's own communication circuitry is not operating correctly. Board replacement is the required repair.

A reset will not clear the COM ERROR code because the fault reflects a hardware failure inside the main control board, not a temporary software glitch. The board fails the same internal self-test each time the diagnostic routine runs. The only way to resolve this error is to replace the main control board.

If you hire a technician, expect to pay somewhere in the range of $150 to $350 or more, depending on the specific board part cost and local labor rates. Doing the repair yourself reduces the cost to just the price of the replacement main control board, which typically falls in the range of $80 to $200 depending on the model. Getting a quote before committing to repair is advisable, especially on older machines where repair cost may approach replacement cost.

If you are comfortable replacing appliance control boards, this is a repair you can attempt yourself. The fix involves removing the faulty main control board and installing a compatible replacement. Because the fault is internal to the board, there are no wiring checks or external component tests that will resolve it. Make sure to disconnect power before handling any internal components.

Continued use is not recommended. The COM ERROR indicates that the main control board cannot reliably pass its own communication self-test, which means it may not correctly control components like valves and the motor during a wash cycle. Running the washer under these conditions could result in incomplete cycles or unpredictable component behavior.