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Frigidaire refrigerator SY CE code: control board communication error

Urgency
Medium
Who can fix it
Moderate DIY
Time
About 20 min
Repair cost
$200–$500

The display board lost contact with the main control board after the refrigerator had been running for a while. The usual cause is a loose or damaged wire harness, often in the door hinge, or a failing board.

Likely causes

Listed from most to least common.

  1. Loose connector on the main control board or display board
  2. Wires pinched or worn in the top door hinge
  3. Power surge or brief outage
  4. Failing user interface (display) board
  5. Failing main control board

How to fix the SY CE code

Unplug the refrigerator or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.

  1. Step 1: Reset the refrigerator

    Unplug it or switch off the breaker for 5 minutes, then restore power.

  2. Step 2: Check the hinge area

    Look at the wires where they pass through the top hinge of the door with the display. Note any pinched or worn spots for the technician. Do not open covers with power on.

  3. Step 3: Watch for 24 hours

    Check that both sections are cooling. A one-time code after a storm is often nothing to worry about.

You'll need: Flashlight.

Parts that may need replacing

Check your model number on the label inside the door or on the back before ordering.

When to call a technician

If SY CE keeps coming back after a reset, a technician should test the wiring and boards before replacing anything. Frigidaire's own service sheets say to rule out wiring first.

A typical repair for this code costs $200–$500 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.

Models this applies to

  • Gallery and Professional French door refrigerators
  • Side-by-side refrigerators
  • Bottom-freezer refrigerators

Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Frigidaire support.

Common questions

›What is the difference between SY CE and SY CF?

Both mean the display and main board cannot talk. SY CF shows up right at power-up. SY CE shows up after the refrigerator has been running for a while.

›Will my refrigerator keep cooling with SY CE?

Often it does, because the main board still runs the compressor. Check the temperature with a thermometer to be sure.

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