Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code E4 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E4 error on a Whirlpool refrigerator means the freezer compartment thermistor has a fault. The thermistor measures the temperature inside the freezer and reports it to the control board. If it fails, the freezer may not cool correctly or the compressor may run constantly. Replacing the thermistor usually resolves the error.

Affected Models

WRF535SWHZ
WRS325SDHZ
WRF767SDHZ
WRT318FZDW
Most Whirlpool French door and side-by-side models

Common Causes

The freezer thermistor has failed electrically and is reading out of range
The wiring connector at the thermistor or control board has come loose or corroded
Ice has built up around the thermistor probe, preventing accurate temperature readings
The thermistor has been physically damaged due to a heavy item in the freezer
The main control board has failed and is misinterpreting the thermistor signal

How to Fix It

Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. Check if E4 has cleared.

A temporary power reset can clear a false reading caused by a momentary sensor spike.
Locate the freezer thermistor. It is usually a small plastic probe clipped to the evaporator coil or mounted on the freezer wall behind the back panel.

Consult your model's parts diagram or service manual to find the exact thermistor location.
Inspect the thermistor for physical damage and check its wire connector. Make sure the connector is fully seated and no pins are bent or corroded.

Corrosion on the connector pins can cause intermittent E4 errors that come and go with temperature changes.
Test the thermistor with a multimeter. Disconnect it from the wiring harness and measure its resistance. At 32°F (0°C) the resistance should be approximately 16,600 ohms. At 59°F (15°C) it should read about 10,000 ohms.

An open circuit (infinite resistance) or short circuit (zero ohms) confirms a failed thermistor.
Replace the thermistor if it fails the resistance test. Plug in the refrigerator after installation and confirm E4 is gone.

Use the model number inside the refrigerator door to find the exact replacement thermistor part number.

When to Call a Professional

Thermistor replacement is a manageable DIY repair on most Whirlpool models. The part typically costs $15–$45. If a new thermistor does not clear E4, the main control board may be faulty. Control board replacement should be confirmed by a technician before purchasing the part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is E4 the same as E1 on a Whirlpool refrigerator?

They are similar but different. E1 usually refers to the refrigerator compartment thermistor. E4 specifically refers to the freezer compartment thermistor. Both sensors do the same job but monitor different areas. The same troubleshooting and repair process applies to both.

Can E4 cause my freezer to stop freezing?

Yes. If the freezer thermistor fails in a way that makes it report a temperature that is too cold, the control board will stop the compressor. This causes the freezer to warm up over time. Check freezer temperature with a separate thermometer — it should be 0°F (-18°C) or below.

How hard is it to replace a Whirlpool freezer thermistor?

It is a relatively easy repair. You typically need to remove the freezer back panel to access the thermistor. The sensor clips or snaps into place and connects with a small plug. Most homeowners can complete this repair in 30 to 60 minutes with basic tools.