Error Code 5E
Error code 5E signals that the fridge compartment defrost sensor is malfunctioning. This sensor tracks evaporator temperature on the fresh food side during defrost cycles. A failed sensor causes incomplete defrosting, frost buildup behind the rear panel of the fridge section, and reduced cooling. Newer Samsung displays show this as 5C.
Common Causes
Failed fridge defrost thermistor: The thermistor mounted on the fridge-side evaporator has an open or short circuit. Normal wear causes failure after 5-10 years of service.
Frost buildup insulating the sensor: A previous defrost problem allowed frost to build around the sensor. The ice layer prevents accurate temperature readings.
Wire break near the evaporator: The sensor wire runs through a cold zone where ice expansion and thermal cycling crack the insulation and snap the conductor.
Connector corrosion: Moisture from condensation corrodes the pins at the sensor connector, causing intermittent or complete signal loss.
DIY Troubleshooting
Power reset the unit: Unplug the refrigerator for 60 seconds. Plug it back in. Monitor for 10 minutes. If the 5E code does not reappear, the fault was a temporary communication error.
Remove the fridge rear panel: Take out all food and shelves from the fresh food compartment. Remove the rear panel by unscrewing the Phillips-head screws around its perimeter (usually 4-6 screws). Pull the panel forward carefully. Note any frost or ice behind the panel.
Manually defrost if ice is present: If the evaporator area behind the panel has frost buildup, leave the fridge unplugged with the door open for 3-4 hours. Place towels on each shelf to absorb water. A room-temperature fan aimed into the compartment speeds up defrosting without risking component damage.
Test the fridge defrost sensor: Locate the defrost sensor clipped to the fridge evaporator tubing. Disconnect its two-wire plug. Set a multimeter to the 20k-ohm range. At room temperature (77 degrees F), expect a reading around 5 kOhms. OL or 0 ohms confirms the sensor is bad. Order the correct Samsung replacement part for your model (check the data plate inside the fridge door).
Replace the sensor and test: Unclip the bad sensor. Connect the new sensor to the harness and clip it onto the same evaporator tube. Reinstall the rear panel with all screws. Replace shelves and food. Plug in the fridge. Run a forced defrost by pressing Energy Saver and Fridge simultaneously for 8 seconds (model-dependent). Confirm the defrost cycle completes and the 5E code stays off.
Professional Repair
Call a technician if the code returns after sensor replacement, if you see damage to the evaporator coils, or if the defrost heater is not producing heat. TruePro's $59 diagnostic fee is credited toward your repair. All work carries a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. Service covers LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County with same-day appointments often available. Call 877-378-3111. Use code NEW15 for 15% off labor as a first-time customer.
Need help with this error code?
Talk to a pro who's seen this code hundreds of times via video chat. Get a diagnosis, parts list, and fix-vs-replace advice in 15 minutes — online.
FAQ
What does Samsung error code 5E mean?
Error code 5E signals that the fridge compartment defrost sensor is malfunctioning. This sensor tracks evaporator temperature on the fresh food side during defrost cycles. A failed sensor causes incomplete defrosting, frost buildup behind the rear panel of the fridge section, and reduced cooling. Newer Samsung displays show this as 5C.
Can I fix error code 5E myself?
1. Power reset the unit: Unplug the refrigerator for 60 seconds. Plug it back in. Monitor for 10 minutes. If the 5E code does not reappear, the fault was a temporary communication error. 2. Remove the fridge rear panel: Take out all food and shelves from the fresh food compartment. Remove the rear panel by unscrewing the Phillips-head screws around its perimeter (usually 4-6 screws). Pull the panel forward carefully. Note any frost or ice behind the panel. 3. Manually defrost if ice is present: If the evaporator area behind the panel has frost buildup, leave the fridge unplugged with the door open for 3-4 hours. Place towels on each shelf to absorb water. A room-temperature fan aimed into the compartment speeds up defrosting without risking component damage. 4. Test the fridge defrost sensor: Locate the defrost sensor clipped to the fridge evaporator tubing. Disconnect its two-wire plug. Set a multimeter to the 20k-ohm range. At room temperature (77 degrees F), expect a reading around 5 kOhms. OL or 0 ohms confirms the sensor is bad. Order the correct Samsung replacement part for your model (check the data plate inside the fridge door). 5. Replace the sensor and test: Unclip the bad sensor. Connect the new sensor to the harness and clip it onto the same evaporator tube. Reinstall the rear panel with all screws. Replace shelves and food. Plug in the fridge. Run a forced defrost by pressing Energy Saver and Fridge simultaneously for 8 seconds (model-dependent). Confirm the defrost cycle completes and the 5E code stays off.
How much does it cost to fix error 5E?
Typical repair costs: DIY: $15 - $45 | Pro: $175 - $350. Free diagnostic with approved repair.
Estimated Cost
DIY: $15 - $45 | Pro: $175 - $350
Free diagnostic with approved repair
Need Help With This Error?
Our technicians fix this error regularly. Same-day service available.
Call (877) 378-3111Virtual Diagnosis — $49