What E01 means on your Bosch refrigerator
Error code E01 indicates that the main control board has lost communication with the fresh-food compartment temperature sensor (NTC thermistor). This sensor continuously reports the refrigerator’s internal temperature so the compressor and fan cycles can maintain your set point — typically 37°F (3°C). Without accurate readings, the board cannot regulate cooling and will display E01.
Symptoms
- E01 displayed on the temperature panel or control display
- The refrigerator may run continuously or not run at all
- Fresh-food compartment temperature drifts from the set point
- Food spoilage due to inconsistent cooling
Common causes
- Failed NTC sensor — the thermistor develops an open or short circuit, sending out-of-range readings to the board
- Disconnected sensor wire — the plug-in connector between the sensor and harness comes loose, often after defrost cycles when moisture accumulates
- Wiring damage — the wire running from the sensor through the cabinet wall to the board can be pinched by shelving hardware or damaged by ice buildup
- Power surge — a voltage spike can damage the sensor or the board’s input circuit
Troubleshooting steps you can try
- Power reset — unplug the refrigerator for 60 seconds. After a power outage or surge, the board may need a clean restart to re-establish sensor communication.
- Check the display — after the reset, set the temperature to your desired level and wait 24 hours. If E01 doesn’t return, it was a transient glitch.
- Monitor temperature — place a standalone thermometer inside the fresh-food compartment to check whether cooling is actually working despite the code.
When to call a technician
If E01 returns after a reset, the sensor or its wiring needs replacement. The fresh-food sensor is typically mounted near the top of the compartment behind a small cover. A technician will measure the sensor’s resistance (should be approximately 5k–15k ohms depending on temperature) and check for continuity in the wiring. This is usually a 30-minute repair. Running the refrigerator with a faulty sensor risks either overcooling (freezing food) or undercooling (spoilage). Codes may vary by model generation and series.
Need help? Schedule Bosch Refrigerator repair with a certified technician, or contact our team for a free diagnosis consultation.
