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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code LED 2 blinks

Knob dial error

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Knob dial error - knob dial resistor short or open circuit (M101 green LED); also Stroke Trip on compressor (M201 red LED) indicating abnormally large piston stroke.

First step from the service manual

For knob dial: check loose connection and knob dial voltage 1-4VDC. For compressor stroke trip: check harness between PCB, compressor and capacitor.

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

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What LED 2 blinks means on a LG refrigerator

The LG refrigerator LED 2 blinks error has two distinct interpretations depending on which LED is active on the control board. When the M101 green LED is blinking twice, the error indicates a knob dial fault caused by a short or open circuit in the knob dial resistor. The knob dial communicates temperature or mode selections to the PCB through a variable voltage signal in the 1 to 4VDC range. If the resistor inside the dial assembly fails or the connection becomes loose, the PCB receives an out-of-range or absent signal and flags this fault.

When the M201 red LED is blinking twice, the fault points to a Stroke Trip condition on the linear compressor. This means the compressor piston has exceeded its normal stroke length, moving abnormally far during operation. A stroke trip is a protective shutdown triggered when the compressor detects that piston travel has gone beyond safe limits. This can result from issues in the electrical harness connecting the PCB, compressor, and capacitor, which can disrupt the feedback signals the compressor relies on to regulate its piston movement.

Diagnosing this error correctly requires identifying which LED is blinking before proceeding. For a green LED fault, check the knob dial connector for looseness and measure the voltage output at the dial, which should fall between 1 and 4VDC under normal operation. For a red LED fault, inspect the wiring harness between the main PCB, the linear compressor, and the capacitor for damage, pinching, or poor connections that could interfere with compressor stroke control.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of LED 2 blinks

  1. 01

    Loose knob dial connector

    Wiring / connection

    A loose or partially disconnected wiring connector at the knob dial is a frequent cause of the green LED 2 blinks fault. Reseating the connector is the first step before any further testing.

  2. 02

    Failed knob dial resistor

    Part replacement

    The resistor inside the knob dial assembly can short or open, causing the voltage signal to fall outside the expected 1 to 4VDC range. If voltage measurement confirms an out-of-range reading, the dial assembly needs replacement.

  3. 03

    Damaged compressor harness

    Wiring / connection

    For the red LED stroke trip fault, a damaged, pinched, or corroded wiring harness between the PCB, compressor, and capacitor can disrupt stroke control signals and trigger a protective shutdown.

  4. 04

    Faulty capacitor

    Part replacement

    The capacitor in the compressor circuit plays a role in regulating compressor operation. A failing capacitor can contribute to abnormal piston stroke behavior and cause the stroke trip fault to appear.

  5. 05

    Linear compressor failure

    Part replacement

    If the harness and capacitor check out as good, the linear compressor itself may have an internal fault causing excessive piston stroke. This is the most costly outcome and typically requires compressor replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about LED 2 blinks

What does LED 2 blinks mean on a LG refrigerator?
LED 2 blinks on an LG refrigerator indicates one of two faults depending on which LED is active. A blinking green M101 LED points to a knob dial error caused by a short or open circuit in the dial resistor. A blinking red M201 LED signals a Stroke Trip on the linear compressor, meaning the piston has traveled beyond its normal stroke range and a protective shutdown has occurred.
How do I fix the LED 2 blinks error on my LG refrigerator?
Start by identifying whether the green or red LED is blinking to determine which fault is active. For the green LED knob dial fault, check the dial connector for a loose fit and measure the dial voltage, which should read between 1 and 4VDC. For the red LED stroke trip fault, inspect the wiring harness connecting the PCB, compressor, and capacitor for damage or poor connections. If connections are intact and voltage readings are abnormal, replacement of the affected component is likely needed.
Is it safe to keep using my LG refrigerator when the LED 2 blinks error is showing?
A knob dial fault may cause the refrigerator to misread temperature settings, which could result in food not being kept at a safe temperature. A compressor stroke trip means the compressor has already shut down as a protective measure, so the unit is not cooling properly. In either case, it is best to address the fault promptly to avoid food spoilage or further damage to the appliance.
How much does it cost to repair the LED 2 blinks error on an LG refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A knob dial assembly replacement is generally in the range of $50 to $150 for parts and labor. Harness repairs or capacitor replacement for a stroke trip fault may run $75 to $200. If the linear compressor itself has failed, costs can be significantly higher, typically ranging from $300 to $600 or more depending on the service provider and parts availability.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear the LED 2 blinks error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error and restore operation, but the fault will return if the underlying problem is not repaired. For a stroke trip fault, the compressor's protective system will shut it down again if the harness or capacitor issue remains unresolved. For the knob dial fault, the PCB will continue to detect the abnormal voltage signal until the dial or its connection is fixed. A reset should be used only as part of diagnosis, not as a long-term solution.

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