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Error code reference

Thermador Refrigerator Error Code E06

Fridge evaporator sensor failure

Thermador codesThermador refrigerator codes

Fridge evaporator sensor failure — no failure message during normal operation; displayed only after auto diagnostic test if evaporator sensor fails.

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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 E06 means on a Thermador refrigerator

The E06 error code on a Thermador refrigerator indicates a failure in the fridge compartment evaporator temperature sensor. This sensor is a thermistor, a resistive component whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature, allowing the control board to monitor the evaporator coil's thermal state in real time. The refrigerator's control system uses this data to regulate defrost cycles and compressor operation. When the sensor falls outside its expected resistance range or produces no signal at all, the system logs the fault.

One important characteristic of this code is that it does not appear during normal refrigerator operation. The E06 code is only displayed after the unit runs its auto diagnostic test, which technicians or the unit itself initiates to check the status of all monitored components. This means a homeowner may never see E06 during everyday use, and the fault could exist passively while the refrigerator continues to operate in a degraded or compensated state without alerting the user.

The evaporator sensor is typically located near or clipped directly onto the evaporator coil inside the fridge section. Common failure modes include sensor wire damage from ice buildup during defrost cycles, connector corrosion, or the thermistor element itself drifting out of specification or opening entirely. Because this sensor informs defrost timing, an undetected failure can eventually lead to frost accumulation on the evaporator and reduced cooling performance over time.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E06

  1. 01

    Failed evaporator thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor element itself can open or drift out of its correct resistance range due to age or heat stress during defrost cycles. Testing the sensor's resistance with a multimeter and comparing it to the expected value for the current temperature will confirm this fault.

  2. 02

    Damaged sensor wiring or harness

    Part replacement

    The wire leads connecting the evaporator sensor to the control board can crack, fray, or become pinched, especially where they route near the evaporator coil. Visually inspect the harness for breaks and check for continuity along the wire run.

  3. 03

    Corroded or loose connector

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture inside the refrigerator compartment can cause the connector pins linking the sensor to the wiring harness to corrode or lose contact. Unplugging and inspecting the connector for oxidation or bent pins is a quick first check.

  4. 04

    Ice accumulation encasing the sensor

    Wiring / connection

    If the defrost system has been running improperly, ice can build up around the evaporator coil and physically encase the sensor, impairing its readings. A manual defrost to melt accumulated ice may temporarily restore sensor function and help isolate whether ice buildup is contributing.

  5. 05

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    In cases where the sensor and its wiring test within normal parameters, the control board's input circuit for the evaporator sensor may have failed. This is a less common cause and should only be suspected after the sensor and harness have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E06

What does E06 mean on a Thermador refrigerator?
E06 indicates that the fridge compartment evaporator temperature sensor has failed or is producing a signal outside the expected range. This code only appears during the refrigerator's auto diagnostic test, not during normal day-to-day operation. The evaporator sensor is a thermistor that the control board uses to monitor the cooling coil and manage defrost timing. A fault here can affect cooling efficiency if left unaddressed.
Can I fix the E06 error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform some steps, such as inspecting the sensor connector for corrosion, checking harness wires for visible damage, and manually defrosting the unit to rule out ice buildup. If the sensor itself has failed, replacing the evaporator thermistor is a moderately involved repair that requires accessing the evaporator coil behind the interior rear panel. If the control board is suspected, professional diagnosis is recommended before replacing that component.
Is my refrigerator safe to use when E06 is displayed?
Because E06 only appears during a diagnostic test rather than during normal operation, the refrigerator may still be cooling when the code is found. However, a failed evaporator sensor means the control board is operating without accurate coil temperature data, which can lead to improper defrost cycles and eventual frost buildup. It is advisable to address the fault promptly to prevent food safety issues from developing as cooling performance degrades.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the E06 code?
A power reset may clear the code temporarily from the display, but if the evaporator sensor has physically failed or its wiring is damaged, the fault will return the next time the auto diagnostic test runs. Resetting alone does not repair the underlying hardware problem. A permanent fix requires identifying and replacing the defective component.
How much does it cost to repair an E06 error on a Thermador refrigerator?
If only the evaporator thermistor needs replacement, parts and labor costs typically range from around $100 to $250 depending on the service provider and part availability. If the wiring harness requires repair or replacement, costs can range from $150 to $350. A control board replacement is the most expensive scenario and can range from $300 to $600 or more for parts and labor. Getting a diagnostic service call to confirm the root cause before committing to parts is generally worthwhile.

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