Thermador Refrigerator Error Code E01 — Fresh Food Compartment Sensor Fault
What this means
Error E01 on Thermador refrigerators indicates the fresh food compartment temperature sensor (thermistor) is sending a signal that is outside the expected range. The main control board continuously monitors this sensor to regulate compressor and fan operation. An open, shorted, or drifting sensor will trigger this code. Thermador built-in and column refrigerators use high-precision NTC thermistors. Causes include a failed thermistor, a loose wire harness connection, or a damaged cable (often in the door hinge area on French-door models).
Alternate codes: Er 01, Err 01
Step-by-step fix
3 stepsReset the refrigerator
Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the breaker for 5 minutes. Restore power. If E01 was caused by a temporary glitch (moisture on connector, brief electrical interference), the reset may clear it.
On Thermador column refrigerators, the control panel may show '---' for a few minutes after a power reset while sensors recalibrate.
Locate and test the fresh food thermistor
The fresh food sensor is typically clipped to the evaporator cover or mounted near the air inlet inside the fresh food compartment. It is a small cylindrical or disk-shaped component with two wires. Disconnect the wire harness and measure resistance with a multimeter. At approximately 37°F (3°C — normal fridge temperature), a good NTC thermistor reads about 16,000–17,000 ohms. At room temperature (72°F), it reads about 10,000–12,000 ohms.
NTC sensors decrease in resistance as temperature increases. A reading near zero or OL (infinity) confirms a shorted or open sensor.
Replace the fresh food thermistor
Unclip the sensor from its mount. Disconnect the wire connector. Install the new sensor in the same location and reconnect the harness. Restore power and wait 24 hours for the refrigerator to stabilize temperatures and confirm E01 does not return.
Thermador uses BSH-standard sensors — Bosch-branded replacement sensors are often compatible and may be easier to find.
When to call a professional
If the new sensor also triggers E01, there may be a wire break between the sensor and the main control board. On built-in models, the wiring can run through areas that are difficult to access without professional tools.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Fresh Food Temperature Sensor (NTC Thermistor)
Part #00617855 · $15–$35
If sensor reads open, shorted, or significantly out of range
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