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Error code reference

Norcold Refrigerator Error Code Flashing Temperature Setting

The thermistor has been sensed as inoperable; temperature is being controlled via the backup operating system…

Norcold codesNorcold refrigerator codes

The thermistor has been sensed as inoperable; temperature is being controlled via the backup operating system (BOS mode).

First step from the service manual

Check if the thermistor wire is plugged in. If yes, check thermistor wire assembly and connector for broken/dirty connections.

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

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What Flashing Temperature Setting means on a Norcold refrigerator

When a Norcold refrigerator displays a flashing temperature setting, the control board has detected that the thermistor is inoperable or not providing a valid signal. The thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor that feeds real-time cabinet temperature data to the control board, allowing it to regulate cooling cycles accurately. When this sensor fails or loses its connection, the board can no longer receive that input and flags the condition by flashing the temperature setting display.

In response to this fault, the refrigerator automatically switches to the Backup Operating System, commonly referred to as BOS mode. BOS mode allows the unit to continue cooling without thermistor input, using a fixed operating cycle rather than dynamic temperature regulation. While the refrigerator will still run in this state, temperature control will be less precise than normal, and food safety could be affected if BOS mode persists for an extended period.

The most common entry points for this fault are the thermistor wiring harness and its connector. A disconnected plug, a broken wire within the harness, or corroded and dirty connector pins can all interrupt the signal between the thermistor and the control board. Physical damage to the thermistor itself, such as a cracked sensor body or internal open circuit, is also a possibility. Diagnosis should start at the plug connection and work back through the harness before assuming the thermistor component itself has failed.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Flashing Temperature Setting

  1. 01

    Disconnected thermistor plug

    Wiring / connection

    The thermistor wire connector may have come loose from its socket on the control board or along the harness route. This is the first thing to check, as it requires no parts and is a quick fix.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged thermistor wire

    Part replacement

    A break or short in the thermistor wiring harness can interrupt the sensor signal even when both ends appear connected. Inspect the full length of the wire for pinching, chafing, or visible damage.

  3. 03

    Corroded or dirty connector pins

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture and debris inside the thermistor connector can cause high resistance or an open circuit at the contact points. Cleaning the pins with electrical contact cleaner may restore the connection without replacing any parts.

  4. 04

    Failed thermistor sensor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can develop an internal open circuit or shift out of its proper resistance range, causing the board to read it as inoperable. If wiring and connectors check out, the thermistor component should be tested and replaced if faulty.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all associated wiring test correctly, the control board's sensor input circuit may have failed. This is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all wiring and sensor checks are complete.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Flashing Temperature Setting

What does Flashing Temperature Setting mean on a Norcold refrigerator?
A flashing temperature setting on a Norcold refrigerator means the control board has detected that the thermistor, the cabinet temperature sensor, is not functioning or providing a valid signal. As a result, the unit has automatically switched to BOS mode, which is a backup operating system that keeps the refrigerator running without thermistor input. The fridge will continue to cool, but with less precise temperature regulation than normal. The fault needs to be diagnosed and repaired to restore full temperature control.
How do I fix the flashing temperature setting error on my Norcold refrigerator?
Start by checking whether the thermistor wire is fully plugged in at both ends. If it is connected, inspect the wire harness for any broken, pinched, or chafed sections, and examine the connector pins for corrosion or dirt that could be blocking the signal. Cleaning dirty pins with electrical contact cleaner or reseating a loose connector often resolves the fault. If wiring checks out, the thermistor sensor itself may need to be tested and replaced.
Is it safe to use my Norcold refrigerator while it is in BOS mode?
The refrigerator will continue to run in BOS mode, so it is not immediately non-functional. However, because BOS mode uses a fixed cycle rather than dynamic temperature sensing, cabinet temperatures may not be held as consistently as normal. For short-term use this is generally acceptable, but the fault should be repaired promptly to ensure food is kept at safe temperatures reliably.
Will resetting my Norcold refrigerator clear the flashing temperature setting error?
A reset alone will not permanently clear this error if the underlying thermistor fault still exists. The control board will detect the inoperable sensor again after the reset and return to BOS mode with the flashing display. The fault will only clear when the thermistor connection is restored or the faulty component is replaced.
How much does it cost to repair the flashing temperature setting error on a Norcold refrigerator?
If the issue is simply a loose or dirty connector, the repair can cost little to nothing beyond a can of electrical contact cleaner. Replacing a thermistor wiring harness or the thermistor sensor itself typically runs in the range of $20 to $80 in parts, depending on the specific model. If the control board is at fault, parts and labor costs can range from $150 to $400 or more. Starting with the simple wiring checks first can save significant repair costs.

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