Fridge
E6
The E6 error code on an AEG fridge signals a problem with the internal temperature sensor (NTC sensor), meaning your fridge cannot accurately monitor or regulate its own temperature. This is a moderate fault — your fridge may still cool, but food safety is at risk if left unresolved.
What does this error mean?
E6 indicates that the fridge compartment’s NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor has sent a reading that is outside the expected range — either an open circuit (no signal) or a short circuit (constant signal). The fridge’s control board cannot trust the temperature data it’s receiving, so it raises the alert. In some AEG models, this can also point to a wiring fault between the sensor and the PCB rather than a failed sensor itself.
Est. repair cost
DIY sensor replacement: £15–£35 for the part. Professional repair: £80–£160 all-in.
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the fridge: switch it off at the wall, wait 10 minutes, then switch it back on. If E6 clears and stays clear for 24 hours, the fault was a temporary glitch.
Check for excessive ice build-up inside the fridge compartment, particularly near the back wall. If you see heavy icing, manually defrost by leaving the fridge off with the door open for several hours, then restart. This can restore a sensor that was frozen in place.
Inspect the sensor wiring (visible when you remove the rear interior panel — usually held by 2–4 Phillips screws). Look for any pinched, chewed, or visibly broken wires. Do not open any sealed electrical components; panel removal is safe.
Check that the sensor connector is firmly seated on the PCB. If it has come loose, press it firmly back into place, power the fridge back on, and monitor for 24 hours.
If comfortable doing so, test the NTC sensor with a multimeter: at room temperature (~20°C) a healthy AEG NTC sensor typically reads around 5,000–10,000 ohms. A reading of zero or infinite resistance confirms a dead sensor.
Order a replacement NTC sensor for your specific AEG model number (found on the rating plate inside the door). Sensors typically clip or screw in and plug directly into the wiring loom — a straightforward DIY swap.
📞 When to call a professional
If replacing the NTC sensor does not clear the E6 code, the fault likely lies with the main control board (PCB), which requires a qualified appliance engineer to diagnose and replace safely. Call a professional if you are uncomfortable removing the rear interior panel, or if you find burnt connectors or melted wiring — tell the engineer you have an AEG E6 error code with a suspected NTC sensor or PCB fault.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E6 fault typically costs £80–£160 including parts and labour, depending on whether it’s a sensor or PCB replacement. If your AEG fridge is under 8 years old, repair is almost always the better value. Beyond 8–10 years, weigh repair costs against a new mid-range fridge (£300–£600), particularly if the PCB needs replacing.