GE Dryer Error Code 13: Door Switch Signal Stuck Closed (UltraFresh GFD/GFV Dryers)

What the code means

Error codes aren't the same across every GE dryer, so check your model number first (it's on the label inside the door opening). GE's Technical Service Guide for the UltraFresh dryer (publication 31-9349, January 2021, covering GFD55, GFD65, GFD85 and GFV55 models) lists fault code 13 as Door Switch Signal Stuck Closed. The trigger condition is that five cycles are run and the DOOR_STATE signal in the hardware door switch detection circuit has not gone open. In plain terms, the dryer expects to see the door open between loads, and after five cycles without that, it decides the door switch or its circuit is stuck reading 'closed.' GE's action is to check and replace the door switch, harness and/or main board if necessary. The same table has two close cousins: 8, Door Latch Stuck, set when the DOOR_LATCH signal hasn't gone open after five cycles (check the door switch and/or harness), and 14, Door Latch Pulsing Error, a malfunction of the door switch detection circuit. You can read stored codes yourself in Consumer Fault Code Mode: from idle with all lights off, hold the Start pad for 10 seconds until all lights come on, then press Start to step through them; the display blinks '--' at the end. Older GE dryers use different code lists, so if your model isn't in the UltraFresh range, check the tech sheet stored inside the dryer. For other GE dryer codes see our E1, E10 and E11 pages.

Likely causes

• A door switch that is stuck or welded closed, so the control never sees the door open (GE's first listed check)
• A damaged, pinched or shorted harness between the door switch and the main board (GE's listed check)
• A main board whose door-sensing circuit has failed (GE lists the board after the switch and harness)
• Less likely: something holding the switch plunger in, such as a misaligned door or debris around the switch, so it never releases

Safe DIY checks

1. Unplug the dryer (and shut off the gas on a gas model) before reaching inside or moving it.
2. Read the stored codes: from idle with all lights off, hold Start for 10 seconds until every light comes on, then press Start to step through them. Note whether 8 or 14 is logged too, since those point at the same door switch circuit.
3. Open the door fully and look at the door switch area on the front panel. Make sure nothing is jamming the switch and the door isn't sagging or rubbing.
4. Open and close the door normally between loads for a few cycles. If code 13 doesn't come back, keep an eye on it.
5. If you're comfortable with service menus: enter Service Mode from idle by holding the Start pad while turning the cycle knob 180 degrees, then releasing Start. Turn the knob to test 11 (Door Open/Close Test) and press Start. The display should show 'dc' with the door closed and 'do' with it open. If it shows 'dc' with the door open, the switch, its wiring or the board's sensing circuit is the problem.
6. Test 12 (Door Latch) should show 'LC' with the door open and 'LS' after you close the door and press Start. Test 13 in Service Mode clears all fault codes; the display shows '--' when cleared. Hold Start for 3 seconds, or press Power, to exit.
7. With the dryer unplugged, a stuck switch can be confirmed with a multimeter on continuity: it should change state as you press and release the plunger. GE's guide says the door switch is attached to the front panel and its connector is unplugged as you lift the front panel off (control panel and top cover come off first, then four 1/4-inch hex screws on top and four T15 Torx screws).

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

Related codes

• 11 GE Dryer 11
• 9 GE Dryer 9
• E1 GE Dryer E1
• E10 GE Dryer E10
• E11 GE Dryer E11

All GE codes →

Sources

1. GE Technical Service Guide, UltraFresh Dryer (31-9349, Jan 2021; GFD55/65/85, GFV55): fault code 13 Door Switch Signal Stuck Closed, codes 8 and 14, Consumer Fault Code Mode, Service Mode tests 11-13, front panel and door switch access (via AppliancePartsPros forum)
2. MyPros+: GE GFDS dryer error code list from the UltraFresh dryer service manual (13 door switch signal stuck closed)