Samsung Refrigerators2010–present

Error Code

The freezer defrost sensor isn't reading temperature correctly

Critical

Stop using immediately - risk of damage or safety issue

Also displayed as: LED blinks in self-diagnostic checklist position 5

What This Means

Defrost thermistor (502AT) disconnected at freezer evaporator; Wire harness damaged between sensor and Main PBA; Thermistor defective (open circuit or short); Main PBA defect

What actually causes this:

The defrost sensor wire came loose or the sensor failed

First Thing to Check

Check that the defrost cycle completes normally — ice should not accumulate excessively on freezer coils

Parts Involved

Freezer Defrost Thermistor 502ATWire HarnessMain PBA

How to Fix

  1. 1

    1. Measure voltage at MAIN PCB CN20 between pins 6 and 8 — must be 4.5V to 1.0V

  2. 2

    2. Check connector at defrost sensor in freezer evaporator compartment

  3. 3

    3. Disconnect CN20 and measure thermistor resistance directly (power off)

  4. 4

    4. At 77°F (25°C), should read 5.0 kΩ

  5. 5

    5. If resistance is normal, issue is on Main PBA

This Error Applies To

Samsung RF23R6 Series Refrigerators (2010) (2010–present)

Service manual exact match: RF23R6201AAService manual exact match: RF23R6201EDService manual exact match: RF23R6201AZService manual exact match: RF23R6301AAService manual exact match: RF23R6201BZ

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