Samsung Refrigerator Error Code COMP MOTOR RESTRICTION ERROR

This error code means the refrigerator's control system has detected that the compressor motor is constrained or locked and cannot spin normally. The inverter board monitors compressor operation and shuts it down when it detects a stall condition to prevent further electrical or mechanical damage. The underlying cause can be a seized compressor, a faulty inverter PCB, or an input voltage problem.

No, you should not continue using the refrigerator normally when this error is active. The compressor is not running, so the unit is not cooling, and food safety will be compromised within a few hours. Additionally, repeated failed start attempts by a locked compressor can cause further damage to the inverter PCB and compressor windings.

Repair costs vary significantly depending on the root cause. Inverter PCB replacement typically falls in the range of $150 to $400 including parts and labor. Compressor replacement is the most expensive scenario, often ranging from $400 to $700 or more depending on the model and local labor rates. If the fault is limited to a wiring issue or a correctable solder joint, the cost can be considerably lower.

Some causes, such as low input voltage or a loose wiring connector, can be identified and corrected by a knowledgeable DIYer with a multimeter and basic tools. However, inspecting and reworking solder joints on the inverter PCB requires soldering skills and appropriate equipment. A seized compressor or a failed inverter board will require replacement parts and, in the case of the compressor, EPA-certified refrigerant handling by a licensed technician.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error code and allow the compressor to attempt a restart, but if the underlying cause is still present, the error will return quickly. A reset alone does not fix a seized compressor, a damaged inverter board, or a wiring fault. Use a reset only as part of the diagnostic process, not as a permanent solution.