mypros+
Error code reference

Thermador Refrigerator Error Code E01

Fridge compartment sensor break or short circuit.

Thermador codesThermador refrigerator codes

Fridge compartment sensor break or short circuit.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for E01.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What E01 means on a Thermador refrigerator

The E01 error code on a Thermador refrigerator indicates a fault detected in the fridge compartment temperature sensor, also known as an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor. This sensor is responsible for continuously monitoring the internal air temperature of the fresh food compartment and sending resistance-based signals to the control board so it can regulate the compressor and evaporator fan cycles. When the control board detects that the sensor's signal is outside of the expected resistance range, either due to an open circuit (break) or a shorted circuit condition, it triggers the E01 fault.

A sensor break typically means the thermistor or its wiring has lost electrical continuity, causing the resistance reading to spike toward infinity. A short circuit means the sensor circuit has collapsed to near-zero resistance, usually due to a wiring fault or a failed sensor element. Both conditions give the control board an invalid temperature reading, which prevents the refrigerator from maintaining safe and accurate temperature control in the fresh food section.

Common causes include a physically damaged sensor, corroded or disconnected wiring harness connectors, or a sensor that has simply failed due to age. The wiring routing between the sensor and the main control board should also be inspected, as pinched or chafed wires in the cabinet liner can cause intermittent or permanent circuit faults. Resolving E01 generally requires testing the sensor's resistance and inspecting connector integrity before replacing components.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E01

  1. 01

    Failed fridge compartment thermistor

    Part replacement

    The NTC thermistor sensor itself has failed, either going open circuit or shorting internally. A multimeter test of the sensor's resistance will show a reading far outside the expected range for the ambient temperature.

  2. 02

    Disconnected or loose wiring connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector linking the temperature sensor to the main control board harness may have come loose or unseated. Inspect the connector at both the sensor end and the control board end for proper seating and signs of corrosion.

  3. 03

    Damaged or chafed wiring harness

    Part replacement

    Wires routed through the cabinet liner can become pinched, chafed, or broken over time, causing an open or short in the sensor circuit. Visually trace the harness from the sensor to the control board looking for damage.

  4. 04

    Corroded sensor or connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture inside the refrigerator compartment can cause corrosion at the sensor terminals or connector pins, increasing resistance or causing intermittent contact. Clean or replace corroded connectors and inspect the sensor probe for visible corrosion.

  5. 05

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all wiring test within normal specifications, the control board's sensor input circuit may have failed and is misreading the sensor signal. This is the least common cause and should only be suspected after sensor and wiring are confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E01

What does E01 mean on a Thermador refrigerator?
E01 on a Thermador refrigerator indicates a break or short circuit in the fridge compartment temperature sensor circuit. The control board cannot get a valid resistance signal from the thermistor responsible for monitoring fresh food section temperatures. This fault prevents accurate temperature regulation and should be diagnosed promptly to avoid food spoilage.
Can I fix the E01 error code myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform basic diagnostics such as checking for disconnected or corroded wiring connectors and testing the sensor's resistance with a multimeter. If the sensor itself has failed, replacing the thermistor is a relatively straightforward repair. However, if the wiring harness is damaged inside the cabinet liner or the control board needs replacement, professional service is recommended.
Is my refrigerator safe to use while showing the E01 code?
An E01 error means the refrigerator is not receiving a valid temperature reading for the fresh food compartment, which means it may not be cooling correctly or consistently. It is advisable not to rely on the refrigerator for food safety until the fault is resolved. Perishable foods should be moved to another refrigerator or cooler as a precaution.
How much does it cost to repair the E01 error on a Thermador refrigerator?
If only the thermistor sensor needs replacement, parts typically cost in the range of $20 to $80, and a technician's labor for this repair generally falls between $100 and $200 depending on your location. If the wiring harness or control board is also involved, total repair costs could range from $200 to $500 or more. Getting a diagnostic visit quote before authorizing parts is a good approach.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the E01 error code?
Performing a reset by unplugging the refrigerator for several minutes may temporarily clear the E01 code, but if the underlying sensor fault is still present the code will return once the appliance powers back on and runs self-diagnostics. A reset alone does not fix a failed sensor or damaged wiring. The root cause must be identified and corrected for the error to clear permanently.

Related Thermador refrigerator codes

All Thermador refrigerator codes
View all 49 Thermador refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass