LG Air Conditioner Error Code E416

E416 indicates that the discharge temperature or top-of-compressor temperature sensor detected a temperature of 120°C or higher, triggering a protective compressor shutdown. The control board halts compressor operation to prevent thermal damage to internal components and refrigerant oil. This code requires inspection of the temperature sensor and the refrigerant system before the unit is restarted.

No. The E416 code triggers an automatic compressor shutoff specifically to prevent serious damage, and attempting to bypass or ignore this protection risks destroying the compressor. Operating the system repeatedly through this fault without resolving the root cause can cause permanent compressor failure, which is a costly repair. Leave the unit off until the fault is properly diagnosed and corrected.

Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. Replacing a faulty discharge temperature sensor is typically a lower-cost repair, generally in the range of $75 to $200 including labor. Refrigerant recharge or leak repair can range from $150 to $500 or more depending on refrigerant type and the extent of the leak. Compressor replacement is the most expensive possibility, often ranging from $600 to $1,500 or higher depending on the unit size and model.

The first diagnostic step, checking the resistance value of the discharge or top temperature sensor, can be performed with a multimeter by a knowledgeable DIYer. However, if the sensor checks out and the fault is related to refrigerant charge or a refrigerant circuit restriction, a licensed HVAC technician is required by law to handle refrigerants. Compressor replacement or refrigerant work should not be attempted without proper equipment and certification.

A power reset may temporarily clear the fault and allow the unit to restart, but if the underlying cause such as a failed sensor, low refrigerant, or restricted airflow is not corrected, the discharge temperature will return to 120°C or above and E416 will reappear. Repeatedly resetting without diagnosis puts the compressor at risk of permanent damage. The root cause must be identified and repaired for the fault to stay cleared.