GE Washer E4B Error – Motor and Inverter Test Guide

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What Does the GE Washer E4B Error Code Mean?

The E4B error code on a GE washer typically indicates a problem with the washer’s motor control system. This can include:

• A faulty main control board
• A failed motor
• A defective inverter board
• Wiring issues between parts

Proper troubleshooting involves checking each part to determine which one has failed.

Tools You’ll Need

Before beginning, gather the following tools:

• Multimeter
• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Pliers

Safety First

Always disconnect the power before working on your washer.

Unplug the appliance or switch off the breaker supplying power to the washer. The only time the washer should be powered during this process is when testing live voltage with a multimeter. If you’re not comfortable performing live electrical testing, skip that step.

Access the Washer Parts

Start by removing the bottom access panel on the front of the washer.

1. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting screws.
2. Remove the panel and set it aside.

Behind this panel you’ll find wiring connections that lead to the inverter.

Test Voltage from the Main Control

The first step is checking whether the main control board is sending power to the inverter.

1. Set your washer to a spin cycle.
2. Set your multimeter to AC voltage (V~).
3. Carefully plug the washer back in.
4. Using the three-wire connector, test from the blue wire to the red wire.

You should measure approximately 120 volts AC.

Test Results

• No voltage present: The main control board has failed and will need replacement.
• Voltage present: Continue troubleshooting the motor and inverter.

Once finished, cancel the cycle, wait for the door to unlock, and unplug the washer again.

Remove the Inverter

Next, access the inverter for further testing.

1. Remove the wires from the retainers on the washer base.
2. Remove the screws securing the inverter.
3. Slide the inverter toward the back and lift it out.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver to release the inverter cover.
5. Disconnect the motor harness from the inverter.

Test the Motor Windings

To verify the motor is functioning correctly, test the motor windings using the multimeter.

Set your multimeter to resistance (ohms).

Test the following wire pairs:

• Blue wire to white wire
• Blue wire to red wire
• White wire to red wire

Each reading should be around 6 ohms.

Next, test the two remaining wires, which should measure approximately 118 ohms.

Motor Test Results

• If any reading shows open (no continuity) or is more than 0.5 ohms outside the expected range, the motor has failed.
• If all readings fall within the expected range, the motor is likely working properly.

Diagnosing the Inverter

If both the main control board and motor test correctly, the inverter board becomes the most likely cause of the E4B error.

This diagnosis is made through the process of elimination after verifying that the other parts are functioning correctly.

Replacing the Inverter

If the inverter has failed, it will need to be replaced.

1. Disconnect the remaining wiring connections.
2. Remove the inverter from the washer.
3. Connect the wires to the replacement inverter.
4. Reinstall the inverter cover.
5. Slide the inverter back into place on the base.
6. Secure it with the mounting screws.

Reassemble the Washer

Once the inverter is installed:

1. Reinstall the bottom access panel.
2. Secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
3. Plug the washer back in.

Test the Washer

Run a cycle to confirm the washer operates normally and the E4B error code no longer appears. If the repair was successful, the washer should now spin and operate as expected.

Final Thoughts

The GE washer E4B error code usually indicates a problem within the washer’s motor control system. By testing the main control board, motor windings, and inverter, you can narrow down the faulty part and complete the repair.

With the right tools and careful troubleshooting, this repair is manageable for DIY homeowners and can save the cost of a service call.

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