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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code rS

Refrigerator compartment sensor failure

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Refrigerator compartment sensor failure - displayed when the cold storage room sensor has a short circuit or open circuit.

First step from the service manual

Check refrigerator sensor resistance at POINT C and POINT D voltage; 0V indicates short, 5V indicates open.

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

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  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What rS means on a LG refrigerator

The rS error code on an LG refrigerator indicates a failure in the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor, also known as the cold storage room sensor. This sensor is a thermistor that continuously monitors the internal temperature of the fresh food section and sends resistance-based readings to the main control board. When the control board detects an abnormal signal from this sensor, it logs the rS fault and may suspend normal cooling operations to prevent potential food safety issues or compressor damage.

Diagnosis begins by measuring the voltage at POINT C and POINT D on the sensor circuit. A reading of 0V at these test points indicates a short circuit condition, meaning the sensor or its wiring harness has developed a low-resistance fault path to ground. A reading of 5V indicates an open circuit condition, where the signal path has been completely broken due to a disconnected connector, broken wire, or failed thermistor. Normal operation would produce a voltage somewhere between these two extremes, corresponding to the thermistor's temperature-dependent resistance.

Common physical causes include a thermistor that has drifted out of spec or failed internally, damaged wiring between the sensor and control board, corroded or loose connector pins at the harness junction, or in some cases ice buildup around the sensor that can mechanically stress and eventually break the sensor lead wires. Identifying whether the fault is a short or open circuit using the voltage test narrows the diagnosis significantly before any parts are ordered.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of rS

  1. 01

    Failed refrigerator compartment thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself has failed internally, producing either no signal or a shorted signal to the control board. A 5V reading at the test points confirms an open circuit thermistor that needs replacement.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    The wire harness running from the thermistor to the control board may have a break or cut, resulting in an open circuit. Inspect the full length of the wiring for visible damage, kinks, or pinch points.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded connector pins

    Wiring / connection

    Connector terminals at the sensor harness junction can loosen or corrode over time, causing intermittent or complete loss of signal. Check and reseat all connectors related to the refrigerator compartment sensor circuit.

  4. 04

    Short circuit in sensor harness

    Part replacement

    Chafed or pinched wiring can create an unintended low-resistance path to ground, resulting in a 0V reading at POINT C and POINT D. Visually inspect the harness routing for areas where insulation may have worn through.

  5. 05

    Ice accumulation around the sensor

    Wiring / connection

    Excessive frost or ice buildup in the fresh food compartment can physically stress the sensor leads over time, eventually breaking the connection. A manual defrost cycle should be performed before re-testing the circuit.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about rS

What does rS mean on a LG refrigerator?
The rS code on an LG refrigerator indicates that the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor has experienced a short circuit or open circuit failure. The control board detected an abnormal voltage at the sensor test points, either 0V for a short or 5V for an open. This prevents the refrigerator from accurately monitoring the temperature inside the fresh food section. The fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired to restore normal operation.
Can I fix the rS error code myself?
Some causes of the rS code are DIY-friendly, such as reseating a loose connector or performing a manual defrost to clear ice from around the sensor. If the wiring or thermistor itself has failed, replacing the sensor requires basic electrical knowledge and comfort working inside the refrigerator cabinet. Testing the voltage at POINT C and POINT D with a multimeter will help confirm whether you are dealing with a short or open circuit before purchasing parts.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator while the rS code is showing?
It is not advisable to rely on the refrigerator for extended food storage while the rS code is active, since the control board cannot accurately read or regulate the fresh food compartment temperature. Food safety could be compromised if temperatures rise above safe levels without the refrigerator detecting it. Address the fault as soon as possible, and in the meantime use a standalone thermometer inside the compartment to monitor conditions.
How much does it cost to repair the rS error code on an LG refrigerator?
If only the thermistor needs replacement, parts typically range from around $15 to $50 depending on the specific model, and a DIY repair keeps costs low. If a technician is needed, the total cost including labor generally falls in the $100 to $250 range. More extensive wiring repairs or control board issues would push costs higher. Getting a firm diagnostic first helps avoid paying for parts that are not the root cause.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear the rS error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the rS code from the display, but it will return if the underlying sensor fault has not been corrected. The control board will re-detect the short or open circuit condition the next time it polls the sensor. A reset can be useful to confirm whether a fault is intermittent or consistent, but it is not a permanent fix. The sensor circuit must be tested and the root cause repaired for the code to stay cleared.

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