Call (323) 792-1970
Customer service:    323-792-1970
  • GE
  • Ge Dryer Error Code: 002 or 004
Schedule Appointment
GE Dryer Error Codes

Ge Dryer Error Code: 002 or 004

Error Code 002 – Abnormally High Thermistor Resistance

When your dryer displays Error Code 002, it’s signaling an issue with the thermistor circuit, specifically higher-than-expected resistance. This anomaly suggests that the dryer’s main control board believes the inlet temperatures are lower than they should be. There are two common culprits for this error:

1. Faulty Inlet Thermistor:

  • Internally damaged thermistors may exhibit resistance outside the normal range, reaching megaohms.
  • Problems like cracked housing, corroded wire leads, or broken internal components can trigger incorrect resistance values.

2. Wiring Harness Problems:

  • Loose wire connections, shorts, or incorrect routing can also result in abnormal resistance levels.
  • Intermittent shorts or continuity issues that change with movement or vibration may be present.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting:

  • Safely Accessing the Inlet Thermistor:
    • Disconnect the dryer’s power and ensure you follow lockout/tagout procedures for safety.
    • Carefully open the dryer to access the inlet thermistor, typically found along the rear ductwork.
  • Testing Resistance with a Multimeter:
    • After disconnecting power, detach the thermistor’s wiring harness plug (never test resistance through the control board).
    • Use a multimeter to measure resistance across the thermistor’s terminals, referring to factory specifications.
    • Compare your readings to expected values based on room temperature. A significantly high resistance over 1,000,000 ohms indicates a defective thermistor that should be replaced.
  • Inspecting the Thermistor Wiring:
    • If resistance readings are normal, shift your focus to the wiring harness:
    • Visually inspect the harness for damage, loose connectors, or poor wire connections.
    • Check for continuity through each wire segment to uncover any opens or high-resistance points.
    • Verify that wiring routing matches the factory wiring diagram precisely, as deviations can lead to intermittent continuity issues.
  • Final Repair and Validation:
    • If the thermistor is found to be defective, install a new OEM inlet thermistor (avoid attempting to repair the sensor).
    • Address any wiring repairs identified during the harness inspection, using heat shrink splices for secure connections.
    • Reconnect all wiring, restore power, and test operation through several complete cycles. Error Code 002 should no longer be displayed.
    • If the error persists, consider replacing the main control board as a last resort.

Error Code 004 – Abnormally Low Thermistor Resistance

Error Code 004 indicates that the main control board detects lower-than-expected resistance in the inlet thermistor circuit, believing that inlet temperatures are higher than they should be. Common causes for this error include:

1. Faulty Thermistor:

  • Internal shorts in the thermistor can result in significant resistance drops, with readings below 500 ohms at room temperature.
  • Damage to the physical housing or connector issues may also contribute to inaccurate resistance values.

2. Wiring Harness Problems:

  • Shorts between wires or to the ground can occasionally cause abnormal resistance drops.
  • Intermittent connections, incorrect routing, or loose plugs may also affect resistance levels.

The troubleshooting process for Error Code 004 mirrors that of Error Code 002:

  • Safely Access the Inlet Thermistor:
    • Always disconnect power and adhere to lockout procedures to ensure safety during troubleshooting.
    • Carefully open the dryer to access the inlet thermistor on the rear duct.
  • Use a Multimeter to Check Resistance:
    • With the power off, detach the thermistor’s wiring plug (never test resistance through the control board).
    • Verify resistance readings compared to expected values based on room temperature.
    • Unusually low resistance, below 500 ohms, indicates a damaged inlet thermistor that should be replaced.
  • Inspect Thermistor Wiring:
    • If resistance readings are normal, focus on the wiring harness:
    • Visually inspect for breaks, damage, loose connectors, or poor connections.
    • Check for continuity through each wire segment to uncover any unexpected shorts.
    • Verify that harness routing precisely matches the factory wiring diagram.
  • Complete Repairs and Retest Operation:
    • If the thermistor is found to be defective, install a new OEM inlet thermistor (avoid attempting to repair the existing sensor).
    • Address any wiring harness repairs identified during the inspection, using heat shrink splices for secure connections.
    • Reconnect wiring, restore power, and test operation through several complete cycles. The Error Code 004 should no longer be displayed.
    • If the error persists, consider replacing the main control board as a last resort.

Preventing Inlet Thermistor Issues

To minimize inlet thermistor problems, consider these tips:

  • Clean the lint filter thoroughly before each cycle to maximize airflow and cooling.
  • Ensure the dryer drum turns freely without friction or binding issues, preventing overheating.
  • Avoid overloading the drum, as it can lead to excessive internal heat buildup.
  • Allow proper clearance behind the dryer for ventilation and cooling airflow.
  • Handle the thermistor with care to avoid damaging wire leads or connectors.

Schedule Appointment