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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code Er IM3

Ice maker equipment not functioning

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Ice maker equipment not functioning - ejector does not reach stop position within 18 minutes from dump mode start.

First step from the service manual

Check for defects in IC camera, motor, heater, or relay.

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

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What Er IM3 means on a LG refrigerator

The Er IM3 error code on an LG refrigerator indicates a failure in the ice maker's ejector mechanism. Specifically, the ejector motor has not completed its full rotation cycle and failed to reach its designated stop position within 18 minutes of dump mode initiation. Dump mode is the phase in the ice-making cycle where the heater briefly warms the ice mold to release the cubes, and the ejector arm sweeps them into the storage bin. When this sweep cycle does not complete within the 18-minute window, the control board logs Er IM3 and halts ice production to prevent mechanical damage.

The primary components involved in this fault are the ice maker assembly's ejector motor, the mold heater, the ice maker control IC (the internal circuit board within the ice maker unit), and the relay that powers the motor or heater. If the heater fails to adequately warm the mold, ice cubes can remain partially frozen and physically block the ejector arm, preventing it from completing its rotation. A faulty ejector motor, whether due to worn brushes, a seized gear, or an open winding, will also cause this timeout. A defective relay that fails to energize the motor or heater correctly is another hardware-level cause.

Diagnostic work should begin with a visual inspection of the ice maker assembly for obvious obstructions or ice buildup around the ejector arm. From there, technicians should check the heater for continuity, verify the motor turns freely and draws appropriate current, inspect the IC board for signs of burn marks or corrosion, and test the relay for proper switching operation. Failure in any one of these components can produce the Er IM3 condition.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Er IM3

  1. 01

    Ice blockage around the ejector arm

    Wiring / connection

    Excess ice buildup inside the ice maker compartment can physically block the ejector arm from completing its rotation. Inspect the ice maker tray and surrounding area for clumped or bridged ice that is jamming the mechanism.

  2. 02

    Faulty mold heater

    Part replacement

    If the heater that warms the ice mold during dump mode is open or not generating enough heat, cubes will not release properly and will obstruct the ejector arm. Test the heater for continuity to confirm it is functioning.

  3. 03

    Defective ejector motor

    Part replacement

    A worn or seized ejector motor will fail to drive the arm through its full rotation within the 18-minute window. Check that the motor turns freely by hand and that it draws current when energized.

  4. 04

    Failed relay

    Part replacement

    The relay responsible for supplying power to the ejector motor or heater may fail to switch correctly, cutting off power to either component during the dump cycle. Testing relay operation with a multimeter will confirm whether it is switching as expected.

  5. 05

    Defective ice maker IC board

    Part replacement

    The internal control board within the ice maker assembly coordinates the timing and sequencing of the heater, motor, and sensors. A damaged or corroded IC can send incorrect signals or fail to complete the cycle logic, triggering the Er IM3 timeout.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Er IM3

What does Er IM3 mean on a LG refrigerator?
Er IM3 means the ice maker's ejector arm did not reach its stop position within 18 minutes after dump mode started. Dump mode is the phase where the mold heater releases ice cubes and the ejector sweeps them into the bin. The refrigerator detected that this cycle timed out and halted ice production. The most common causes are ice jams, a failed mold heater, a faulty ejector motor, or a defective relay or IC board.
Can I fix the Er IM3 error myself, or do I need a technician?
If the cause is an ice blockage, you can often resolve it yourself by turning off the ice maker, allowing any jammed ice to thaw, and restarting the unit. If the fault is due to a failed heater, motor, relay, or IC board, replacing those components typically requires disassembling the ice maker assembly, and some comfort with electrical testing is needed. A technician is recommended if you are not confident testing component continuity or handling refrigerator wiring.
Is the Er IM3 error dangerous or a safety risk?
Er IM3 is not a safety hazard. The error halts the ice-making cycle to prevent the motor from straining against a blockage indefinitely, which is a protective function. Your refrigerator will continue cooling and operating normally. The only impact is that ice production stops until the issue is resolved.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the Er IM3 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code, but if the underlying problem with the heater, motor, relay, or IC board is still present, the code will return once the ice maker attempts another cycle. Clearing the code without fixing the root cause only delays the diagnosis. A reset is useful as a first step to confirm whether the issue is intermittent, but a thorough component inspection is still necessary.
How much does it cost to repair an LG refrigerator showing Er IM3?
Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. If it is only an ice blockage, the fix costs nothing beyond your time. Replacing a mold heater, ejector motor, or relay typically runs between $50 and $150 for the part, plus labor if a technician is involved, bringing the total to roughly $100 to $300 in most cases. Replacing the entire ice maker assembly, if the IC board is damaged, can range from $150 to $400 or more depending on the specific model.

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