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Error code reference

LG Freezer Error Code E1

Failure of left compartment sensor (sensor wire is cut or short-circuited).

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Failure of left compartment sensor (sensor wire is cut or short-circuited).

First step from the service manual

Measure resistance at both ends of CON2 pins 1 and 2 after disconnecting from PCB; normal range is 0.5 Vdc to 4.5 Vdc at the sensor voltage checkpoint; open reads 5 Vdc, shorted reads 0 Vdc.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E1 means on a LG freezer

The E1 error code on an LG freezer indicates a failure in the left compartment temperature sensor circuit. This sensor is a thermistor, a resistive component whose resistance changes predictably with temperature, and it feeds voltage signal data back to the main PCB so the control board can regulate cooling cycles. When the PCB detects a signal outside the valid operating range, it flags E1 and may suspend normal operation to prevent uncontrolled temperature conditions.

The diagnostic checkpoint for this fault is at connector CON2, pins 1 and 2. After disconnecting CON2 from the PCB, the sensor voltage should read between 0.5 Vdc and 4.5 Vdc under normal operating conditions. A reading at or near 5 Vdc indicates an open circuit, meaning the sensor wire is cut, the connector is broken, or the thermistor element itself has failed open. A reading at or near 0 Vdc points to a short circuit, where the wiring or sensor is shunting the signal line directly to ground.

Common physical causes include wiring harness damage from repeated freezer door use, corrosion or frost buildup at the connector pins, a crimped or pinched wire behind an interior panel, or a thermistor that has failed internally. Because this is a monitored safety circuit, clearing the fault requires correcting the underlying wiring or sensor condition. Simply resetting the unit will not resolve the error if the root cause remains.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E1

  1. 01

    Damaged or broken sensor wire

    Part replacement

    The wiring harness running to the left compartment sensor can develop breaks or cuts, often from door flexing or panel removal during prior service. An open circuit at CON2 pins 1 and 2 will read approximately 5 Vdc at the sensor checkpoint.

  2. 02

    Failed thermistor (sensor element)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can fail internally, either opening the circuit or shorting it. This will produce a steady 5 Vdc reading for an open failure or a 0 Vdc reading for an internal short, with no change as temperature fluctuates.

  3. 03

    Corroded or loose connector at CON2

    Wiring / connection

    Frost, moisture, and repeated thermal cycling can corrode the pins at CON2 or cause the connector to seat poorly, creating an intermittent or full open circuit. Inspect the connector body and pins closely for oxidation, bent contacts, or debris.

  4. 04

    Pinched or shorted wiring harness

    Part replacement

    A wire routed behind an interior panel can become pinched during reassembly, creating a short to ground that produces a 0 Vdc reading at the sensor checkpoint. Check the harness path behind any panels near the left compartment.

  5. 05

    PCB connector pin fault

    Wiring / connection

    In some cases the issue is at the PCB-side socket rather than the harness, with a bent or oxidized pin preventing proper signal continuity. Inspect the PCB connector socket for physical damage before condemning the sensor or wiring.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E1

What does E1 mean on a LG freezer?
E1 on an LG freezer indicates a failure in the left compartment temperature sensor circuit. The sensor wire may be cut, the connector may be damaged, or the thermistor itself may have failed. The PCB monitors the sensor signal at CON2 pins 1 and 2 and triggers E1 when the voltage falls outside the normal 0.5 Vdc to 4.5 Vdc range.
Can I fix an LG freezer E1 error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose this fault by disconnecting CON2 from the PCB and measuring the voltage at pins 1 and 2. A reading near 5 Vdc points to an open circuit, while a reading near 0 Vdc points to a short. If the issue is a loose or corroded connector, cleaning and reseating it may resolve the fault. Replacing the sensor wire or thermistor requires basic electrical repair skills and the correct replacement part.
Is an LG freezer E1 error a safety concern?
Yes, the E1 fault should be addressed promptly. Without a functioning left compartment sensor, the PCB cannot accurately monitor or regulate temperatures in that zone, which can allow food to thaw or temperature swings to go undetected. Do not rely on the freezer for long-term food storage until the sensor circuit is repaired.
Will resetting the freezer clear the E1 error?
Resetting the unit may temporarily clear the E1 code from the display, but the error will return if the underlying sensor or wiring fault is still present. A reset does not repair a broken wire, failed thermistor, or corroded connector. The root cause must be diagnosed and corrected to permanently clear the fault.
How much does it cost to repair an LG freezer E1 error?
Repair cost depends on what has failed. A replacement left compartment thermistor typically costs between $15 and $50 for the part alone. If the wiring harness needs replacement, parts can range from $30 to $80 or more depending on the specific model. Adding professional labor, total repair costs generally fall between $100 and $250, though a corroded connector that only requires cleaning and reseating may cost nothing beyond diagnostic time.

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