Communication error

Perform a hard reset by unplugging the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then plug back in — this clears transient communication faults between the main PCB and display board
Open the control panel housing (top of the unit or behind the fresh food door) and inspect the ribbon cable connecting the display board to the main control board
Check the main control board (located at the rear bottom) for visible burn marks, swollen capacitors, or corroded solder joints
Test voltage between the main board and display board communication pins — LG uses a serial data protocol requiring 5V DC reference
If both boards appear intact, the wire harness routing through the door hinge area may have fractured from repeated opening — inspect for damaged insulation
Pro Diagnostic Tip
On LG ThinQ-enabled models, Er CO frequently indicates the WiFi module is interfering with the inter-board serial bus. Disconnecting the WiFi module connector on the main board and restarting can confirm whether the ThinQ module is the culprit before ordering a $180+ main board.
Repair Difficulty
Professional OnlyEstimated Repair Cost
$250–$450
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
Refrigerant gauges ($200+), vacuum pump ($250), leak detector ($150), and EPA-certified recovery equipment. Our technician arrives with $15K+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
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Refrigerant (R-134a/R-600a) requires EPA certification to handle. Improper discharge is a federal violation and health hazard. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
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Error code Er CO is a high-severity issue that can cause further damage to your refrigerator if left unresolved. A licensed technician can diagnose and fix it the same day.
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LG error code Er CO indicates: Communication error. This is a high-severity issue affecting your refrigerator.
Perform a hard reset by unplugging the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then plug back in — this clears transient communication faults between the main PCB and display board Then, Open the control panel housing (top of the unit or behind the fresh food door) and inspect the ribbon cable connecting the display board to the main control board Then, Check the main control board (located at the rear bottom) for visible burn marks, swollen capacitors, or corroded solder joints There are 2 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. This repair typically requires professional tools and expertise.
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: Display panel is blank or unresponsive; Temperature controls do not respond to button presses; Unit runs but cannot be adjusted. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your refrigerator's display panel for error code Er CO.
Repair costs for LG Er CO typically range from $250 to $450 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.