008 GE dryer error: A troubleshooting guide

Is your GE dryer displaying an 008 error code? This usually indicates an issue with the door switch getting stuck closed.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE dryer while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Let’s dive in!

What causes the 008 error code?

On GE dryers, error code 008 signifies that the door switch is stuck closed after 5 consecutive drying cycles.

The door switch is a dual-position switch with the normally open terminal completing the motor and door signal circuit. It signals to the control board that the door is closed and the dryer can start running.

If the control board doesn’t sense the door switch opening properly over 5 cycles, it will throw the 008 error code.

Your door switch may be stuck if:

• The door switch has gone bad
• There’s damage to the door switch wiring
• The control board has failed (very rare and would most likely be causing other problems)

Keep safety first

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

Read more: Dryer Settings: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding, Using, and Maintaining Your Appliance

How to troubleshoot the 008 error

Step 1 – Check the door switch

If the door can close correctly and you’re still seeing a 008 error, you’ll need to check the door switch, which is located behind the front panel of the dryer.

1. Turn off the dryer and disconnect it from the power outlet.
2. Remove the front panel to access the door switch.
3. Inspect the switch. Make sure the switch lever moves smoothly when operated by hand.
4. Use a multimeter to check the switch for continuity (has a sideways WiFi symbol).

With the door open, you should get continuity across the COM and NC (normally closed) switch terminals and the meter should beep. When the door is manually closed, you should no longer get continuity.

Then test the door switch from the COM to the NO (normally open) switch terminals. There should be continuity when the door is closed but no continuity when the door is open.

If the switch doesn’t show continuity at the proper time, then the switch contact is stuck.

5. Make sure the door switch wires are intact and secure. Check for any damage to the wires or connectors.

If you find any damage, replace the affected part(s).

Read more: How To Use A Multimeter To Check Appliance Parts

Step 2 – Look at the door switch wiring

If the door switch tests good, the next step is to check the wiring between the switch and the control board.

1. Make sure that the wires are properly connected to both the door switch and control board.
2. Carefully inspect the wiring for damage. Look for any bare or shorted wires that could be grounding out the circuit. If you find any damage, replace the wiring.
3. Door switch wires are often routed through the front panel top. Make sure the wires aren’t pinched or chafed here.
4. Check the wire terminals for any corrosion or burned contacts. Replace the terminals if needed.

Step 3 – Replace the control board

If you’ve checked the door seal, switch and wiring and they all appear to be functioning, the most likely cause of the 008 error code is a failed control board.

Here’s how to replace it:

1. Unplug the dryer from the power supply.
2. Find the control board, which is usually mounted in the control panel area behind the front or top panel. Refer to your dryer’s service manual for the exact location.
3. Take pictures or make notes of the wiring to the board.
4. Carefully disconnect all wire harnesses, ribbon cables, and ground wires connected to the control board.
5. Remove any screws or fasteners securing the old control board, then lift it out.
6. Install the new control board and reconnect all wiring harnesses and cables exactly as the old one was connected, referring to your pictures/notes as you go.
7. Reassemble the dryer.
8. Restore power to the dryer.
9. Start a test cycle to see if the new control board resolves the error code.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this information helped you get your dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our thousands of free videos and troubleshooting guides. If you need replacement parts or some extra help, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, order parts, read our DIY blog, and more. We can also help you troubleshoot common dryer problems here.

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