LG Refrigerator Error Er CL — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Er CL means the compressor in your LG refrigerator has locked up — it is no longer running. The compressor is the heart of the cooling system. It pumps refrigerant through the coils to make both the freezer and fridge cold. Without a working compressor, neither section can cool. This is a serious error and your refrigerator will stop cooling entirely. Food safety is at risk — act quickly.

Affected Models

LRMVS3006S
LFXS26973S
LRFXS2503S
LRMDC2306S
LSXS26366S
LG refrigerators manufactured 2015 and later with Linear or Inverter compressors

Common Causes

The compressor motor has seized due to age, overheating, or mechanical failure
The start relay that helps the compressor start up has failed, preventing it from running
The compressor overload protector has tripped due to a voltage surge or prolonged overheating
Refrigerant has leaked from the sealed system, causing the compressor to run dry and overheat
A faulty main control board is not sending the correct start signal to the compressor

How to Fix It

Unplug the refrigerator immediately. Move all perishable food to a cooler with ice.

Without a working compressor, the fridge and freezer will warm up quickly. A full freezer takes about 24 to 48 hours to fully thaw — a fridge section warms in 4 to 8 hours.
Check LG's website and your model number for any active recalls, class action settlements, or extended warranty programs related to compressor failures.

LG reached a class action settlement covering many refrigerators with Linear Compressor failures. Models from roughly 2014 to 2019 may qualify. Visit lg.com/us/support and enter your model number.
With the fridge unplugged, locate the start relay on the side of the compressor at the bottom back of the refrigerator. Shake it gently — if it rattles, it has failed.

The start relay is a small cube-shaped part that plugs into the compressor. A rattling or burned-smell relay is confirmed dead. This is a cheap part and worth replacing before assuming the compressor itself is gone.
If the start relay is fine, plug the refrigerator back in and listen near the bottom back. You should hear the compressor hum. If you hear a click and silence (the overload protector tripping), the compressor itself may have failed.

The typical failure pattern is: a click every 2 to 3 minutes as the overload protector trips and resets, with no sustained hum. This means the compressor is trying to start but cannot.
Call LG customer support or an LG-authorized repair center. Provide the Er CL code, your model number, and your purchase date. Ask specifically about warranty coverage and the compressor settlement program.

LG's number is 1-800-243-0000. An authorized technician is required for any compressor or sealed system repair — this work requires special refrigerant handling equipment.

When to Call a Professional

Er CL almost always requires professional service — compressor repairs are not DIY-friendly. Start relay replacement is the cheapest option ($20–$50 for the part, $100–$200 with labor) and should be checked first. Compressor replacement is expensive: $300–$700 for parts plus $200–$400 labor. Importantly: LG offered a settlement and extended warranty on many models with Linear Compressor failures. Check your eligibility at lg.com/us/support before paying for repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a class action settlement for LG refrigerator compressor failures?

Yes — LG reached a settlement covering many owners whose refrigerators experienced compressor failures. The settlement covers certain models manufactured between 2014 and 2019. Visit lg.com/us/support and enter your model number to check if your fridge qualifies. If you paid for a compressor repair on a covered model, you may be entitled to reimbursement. The settlement deadline has passed for some models, but LG extended warranty coverage on others — it is always worth checking.

Is it worth repairing an LG refrigerator compressor?

It depends on three things: the age of the fridge, your warranty status, and the exact repair cost. If the repair is covered under warranty or the settlement, always proceed. If the fridge is under 7 years old and out of warranty, a start relay replacement ($100–$200) is usually worth doing. Full compressor replacement ($500–$1,100 all-in) is harder to justify on a refrigerator over 7 to 8 years old. Get a technician's diagnosis first — many Er CL cases are start relay failures, not full compressor failures.

How long does food stay safe after Er CL appears?

According to USDA food safety guidelines, refrigerator food is at risk after 4 hours above 40°F (4°C). Freezer food can stay safe for 24 to 48 hours if the freezer door stays closed and the freezer was fully packed. Meat, dairy, eggs, and leftovers are the highest priority to move or use first. When in doubt, throw it out — the cost of food poisoning is far greater than the cost of discarded groceries.