Code: CE🧊 Frigidaire Refrigerator

Frigidaire Refrigerator CE Error Code (SY CE, Er CE): Control Board Communication Error (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Based on 6 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Frigidaire's service data sheets (for example 242292100, an ice and water bottom-freezer sheet) define SY CE as a "UI to Main Control Board communication error; after a period in operation." The related SY CF code is the same communication failure on start up. The display usually shows SY in the freezer window and CE in the fresh food window. Frigidaire's owner support pages list SY CE (French-door models) and Er CE (four-door models) among the codes that "could indicate an authorized service is required," and give no owner fix beyond a reset. Sears PartsDirect describes SY CE or SY CF the same way: a communications failure between the electronic control board and the user interface.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Hard reset: unplug the refrigerator, wait 2 to 3 minutes (Frigidaire's guide) and plug it back in. If you can't reach the plug, switch off its breaker, remembering this cuts power to everything on that circuit.
  2. If your model has a CLEAR ALERTS button, press it after power returns, as Frigidaire's error code guide suggests.
  3. Watch the display for the next day. Keep the doors closed and check with a fridge thermometer that the fresh food side stays near 37°F and the freezer near 0°F.
  4. On French-door models, look at the top hinge area of the door with the display. If the wire bundle there looks pinched, crushed or cut, stop and book service rather than running the fridge.
  5. If SY CE or Er CE comes back after the reset, Frigidaire says to contact them (or your installer if it was installed within the past 30 days) to schedule service.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The code returns after a hard reset. Frigidaire lists SY CE and Er CE as codes that may need authorized service.
  • The fridge or freezer isn't holding temperature, or the display won't respond.
  • Wiring checks: Frigidaire's service sheet tells technicians to check for pin back-outs and pinched or damaged wires before replacing parts, and to work out whether the fault is the component, the main control board or the wiring.
  • The refrigerator is under warranty. Use the contact options on Frigidaire's owner support site to schedule service.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Refrigerator thermometer

Lets you confirm the fridge and freezer are still holding safe temperatures while you wait for the code to clear or for service.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_FRIDGE_THERMOMETER]
⚙

Frigidaire refrigerator main control board (exact part for your model number)

Only after the harness and connectors check out. Sears PartsDirect lists the control board as the first part to replace for SY CE.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_BOARD]
⚙

Frigidaire refrigerator user interface (display) board (exact part for your model number)

Only if SY CE continues after the main control board has been replaced, per Sears PartsDirect.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_FRIDGE_UI_BOARD]

Sources

  1. Frigidaire Service Data Sheet 242292100 (SY CE: UI to main control board communication error after a period in operation; SY CF on start up; wiring check notes), ManualOwl copy
  2. Frigidaire Service Data Sheet (SY CE / SY CF definitions), PartSelect copy
  3. Frigidaire: What do the alarms or error messages mean on my French-Door refrigerator? (SY CE may need authorized service)
  4. Frigidaire: What do the alarms or error messages mean on my Four-Door refrigerator? (Er CE may need authorized service)
  5. Frigidaire: Refrigerator Error Codes and Alarms Guide (reset by unplugging, CLEAR ALERTS, 2-3 minute hard reset, service contacts)
  6. Sears PartsDirect: Frigidaire refrigerator error codes (SY CE or SY CF: check harness, then control board, then user interface)

Last reviewed 2026-10-22. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.