009 error on a GE dryer: What it means and how to fix it

Hearing your GE dryer suddenly stop tumbling and seeing a 009 error code appear can be frustrating. But don’t worry. This motor-related error is something you can diagnose and fix without the need for an expensive service call.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE dryer while you’re troubleshooting the 009 error, 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.

Important: The error code information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Read more: 9 ways you can maintain your dryer to prevent common problems

What does the 009 error code mean?

On GE dryers, the 009 error code usually signifies an issue with the drum motor’s centrifugal switch. The purpose of this switch is to monitor the speed of the motor rotor. Once the motor is in operation, the rotational force triggers the activation of the switch.

The control board oversees the voltage across the terminals of the centrifugal switch. It anticipates a voltage route change once the motor starts up, followed by a voltage route change when the motor stops.

If the control board doesn’t detect the expected voltage changes from the centrifugal switch over a few consecutive cycles, it will log and display error code 009.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• 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 eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work.
• 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 see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

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

How to troubleshoot the 009 error code

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the 009 error on your GE dryer.

Step 1: Check motor function

Initiate a timed dry cycle and listen and feel for the drum to see if it turns.

If the drum isn’t turning, disconnect the dryer from the power outlet. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (Ω) and use the probes to check the motor windings. Check the meter reading and refer to the technical sheet for your specific model. You should detect resistance across all windings.

If any windings are open, the motor will need to be replaced.

If the windings are good, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Inspect the centrifugal switch

1. Disconnect the dryer from power.
2. Access and inspect the centrifugal switch mounted on the motor shaft. Make sure the switch activates properly when engaged by hand. There should be an audible click as the switch toggles.
3. Check that the switch moves freely on the shaft without any obstructions.
4. Set a multimeter to continuity mode. Use the meter probes to test the electrical contacts for continuity when the switch is manually engaged. It should have continuity and the meter should make a beeping sound.

If the centrifugal switch operation is impaired, doesn’t have continuity when engaged, or its contacts are damaged, replace the switch.

If the switch is good, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Check the centrifugal switch wiring

If the centrifugal switch checks out OK, you’ll need to check the switch wiring.

• Check that all the wires leading from the centrifugal switch to the motor winding terminals are intact. Make sure the wires from the switch to the control board are connected correctly.
• Carefully inspect the wires for any damage, such as chafing or burned insulation. Make sure wires aren’t grounded out against any parts.
• Check the wire terminals for corrosion and clean them if needed.
• Repair or replace any damaged switch wiring.

If the wiring looks good, continue troubleshooting.

Step 4: Replace the control board

If the wires and motor are good, the last possibility is a faulty motor relay on the control board.

If the contacts that read voltage from the centrifugal switch are bad, then this prevents the voltage changes from registering with the control circuitry.

You’ll need to replace the control board. When you install the new board, make sure to transfer any configurable settings over from the old board.

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

More information

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

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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