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Error code reference

Samsung Refrigerator Error Code E5

Ambient Temp. Sensor Error

Samsung codesSamsung refrigerator codes

Ambient Temp. Sensor Error - wire cut, short-circuit, contact failure, or missing sensor. Can also be caused by a temperature reading > 150°F or < -58°F.

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What E5 means on a Samsung refrigerator

The E5 error code on a Samsung refrigerator indicates a fault in the ambient temperature sensor circuit. The ambient temperature sensor monitors the air temperature surrounding the refrigerator, typically in the vicinity of the compressor compartment or fresh food section, and feeds that data to the main control board. When the board detects a wire cut, short-circuit, contact failure, or missing sensor, it triggers E5 to alert that the temperature monitoring system is compromised.

The error can also be triggered by a genuine out-of-range temperature reading. If the sensor reports a value above 150°F or below -58°F, the control board interprets this as an implausible reading and flags E5. In practice, this means the fault could originate from either a wiring issue or an actually failed sensor thermistor that is returning resistance values outside the expected operating range.

Diagnosing E5 starts with a close inspection of the sensor wiring harness for visible damage, corrosion at the connector pins, or loose contact points. After confirming the wiring is intact, the sensor itself should be tested with a multimeter to verify its resistance output corresponds to the ambient temperature at the time of testing. A failed sensor or damaged wiring harness will typically need to be replaced to clear the fault and restore normal operation.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E5

  1. 01

    Faulty Ambient Temperature Sensor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself may have failed internally, causing it to report resistance values that correspond to temperatures above 150°F or below -58°F. Testing with a multimeter and comparing the resistance reading to the expected value at the current room temperature will confirm whether the sensor needs replacement.

  2. 02

    Loose or Corroded Wiring Connector

    Wiring / connection

    A connector pin that has backed out, corroded, or lost solid contact between the sensor and the control board will interrupt the signal and trigger E5. Inspect the connector at both the sensor end and the board end for corrosion, bent pins, or incomplete seating.

  3. 03

    Cut or Damaged Wiring Harness

    Part replacement

    Physical damage to the wire running between the ambient sensor and the control board, such as from rodent activity or pinching during a previous repair, will cause an open circuit the board reads as a wire cut fault. Visually trace the harness and use a multimeter to check for continuity.

  4. 04

    Missing or Disconnected Sensor

    Wiring / connection

    If the ambient temperature sensor was inadvertently disconnected during a prior service call or was never properly installed, the control board will detect the absence of a signal and throw E5. Confirm the sensor is physically present and fully plugged in.

  5. 05

    Failed Main Control Board

    Part replacement

    In rare cases where the sensor and wiring test correctly, the control board itself may have a damaged input circuit that is misreading or failing to read the sensor signal. This is the least common cause and should only be considered after all wiring and sensor checks pass.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E5

What does E5 mean on a Samsung refrigerator?
E5 indicates an ambient temperature sensor error. The control board has detected a wire cut, short-circuit, contact failure, missing sensor, or a temperature reading that falls outside the valid range of -58°F to 150°F. The refrigerator cannot reliably monitor ambient conditions until the fault is resolved.
Can I fix the E5 error myself?
In some cases, yes. If the issue is a disconnected or loose wiring connector, reseating it may clear the error without any parts. If the sensor itself has failed, replacing it is a straightforward repair that many DIYers can handle with basic tools and a multimeter. Damaged wiring harnesses are also repairable at home, though they require careful soldering or connector replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator while E5 is showing?
Operating the refrigerator with an active E5 error is risky because the control board cannot accurately account for ambient conditions, which may affect cooling performance and compressor cycling. Food safety could be compromised if the unit is not maintaining proper temperatures. It is best to resolve the fault promptly and monitor internal temperatures in the meantime.
How much does it cost to repair the E5 error on a Samsung refrigerator?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. A replacement ambient temperature sensor typically costs between $10 and $40 for the part. If professional labor is needed, total repair costs including diagnostics and installation generally range from $100 to $250. A main control board replacement, if required, can bring the total closer to $200 to $400 depending on the model.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the E5 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the E5 code from the display, but the error will return if the underlying sensor or wiring fault has not been corrected. Resetting the unit is useful as a first step to confirm the fault is persistent, but it is not a fix. The sensor circuit must be diagnosed and repaired to permanently resolve the error.

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