Samsung Refrigerator 40E Error Code: Ice Maker Sensor Fault Fix

Quick Answer

Samsung 40E is specific to French door and 4-door Flex models with automatic ice makers - it does not appear on Samsung top-freezer or basic side-by-side models. On Samsung 4-door Flex models (RF23, RF28M series), 40E in the 40x range specifically points to the flex zone or ice maker compartment sensor, distinguishing it from freezer or fridge sensor codes in the 20s range. The 40E sensor is part of the ice maker assembly itself on most models, meaning the diagnosis often leads to either a standalone ice maker sensor replacement or the full ice maker assembly replacement if the sensor is not sold separately. Enter Samsung service mode (Energy Saver + Fridge for 8 seconds) to read the ice maker sensor value live before ordering parts - this step prevents ordering a full ice maker assembly when only the $15 sensor needs replacement.

SamsungRefrigeratorSeverity: mediumDifficulty: intermediate75% DIY Success

Time to Fix

30–75 min

Difficulty

intermediate

Parts Cost

$10 – $160

Tools Needed

Multimeter (ohm mode), Phillips screwdriver

What Does the 40E Code Mean?

The ice maker temperature sensor is faulty or out of range. On Samsung French door and 4-door Flex models, the ice maker has its own dedicated sensor that can fail independently from the main freezer sensor.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Ice maker temperature sensor internal failure40%

Ice maker sensor connector loose or corroded from moisture24%

Ice maker assembly failure requiring full assembly replacement22%

Ice room freeze-over damaging sensor wiring (often follows 33E pattern)14%

Symptoms You May Notice

40E displayed on Samsung refrigerator panel
Ice maker not producing ice
Ice production stopped or reduced
Ice maker running but not completing cycles
40E may appear alongside 33E if ice room is frozen

Can you reset a Samsung refrigerator to clear the 40E code?

Press any panel button to dismiss 40E. Cut breaker power for 5 minutes and restore. If 40E returns after sensor replacement, enter service mode to verify the new sensor is reading a plausible temperature.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter (ohm mode)Phillips screwdriverNut driver (1/4")FlashlightHair dryer (if ice room needs thawing)

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Enter service mode

Enter service mode: hold Energy Saver and Fridge buttons for 8 seconds. Navigate to the ice maker sensor reading. Note the displayed value - an 'Er' or extreme temperature reading confirms sensor fault.

Unplug the refrigerator

Disconnect the sensor connector

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Samsung Ice Maker Temperature SensorDA32-00006W · $10–$25	DA32-00006W	$10 – $25
Samsung Ice Maker AssemblyDA97-15217D · $80–$160	DA97-15217D	$80 – $160

Verify part fitment for your Samsung model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $85 (Parts) vs $2850 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Samsung 40E and 40C?

Both are ice maker temperature sensor codes but for different sensors. 40E points to the ice maker tray or ice room temperature sensor that monitors ice making cycle conditions. 40C points to the ice maker room ambient temperature sensor. On 4-door Flex models, 40x codes can also indicate flex zone sensor issues. Service mode tells you which sensor circuit is reporting the fault.

Will Samsung 40E prevent the entire refrigerator from working?

No. Samsung 40E typically only disables ice maker operation while the main refrigerator and freezer continue to cool normally. The ice maker sensor circuit is independent from the main temperature control circuit. The code is an alert for the ice maker section only.

Do I need to replace the full ice maker assembly for Samsung 40E?

Not always. The temperature sensor is sometimes available as a standalone part (DA32-00006W or similar). Check parts availability for your specific model - if the sensor is sold separately, a $15 sensor replacement is worth attempting before a $100+ full assembly replacement. Service mode sensor reading helps confirm whether the sensor alone or the full assembly is needed.

Related Samsung Refrigerator Error Codes

Code: HUBSamsung Refrigerator Error Codes: 39C, 33E, 40E and More Code: 33ESamsung Refrigerator 33E: Ice Maker Fan Motor Fault Code: 40CSamsung Refrigerator 40C: Ice Maker Room Temp Sensor Code: 39CSamsung Refrigerator 39C: Freezer Defrost Sensor Fault

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor Stall Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor Fault Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water Supply Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience 40E Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung refrigerators with this error code. Common model numbers include:

RF28R7351SR, RF23M8070SR, RF28K9070SR, RF28HMEDBSR, RF32FMQDBSR

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026