Samsung Refrigerator 39E error code

The ice maker tried to harvest ice and failed several times in a row, so the fridge flagged an ice-maker function error. Ice production usually stops until the problem is fixed.

Also shown as: 39E, 39C

Last updated: October 6, 2026

Quick answer: Samsung refrigerator error code 39E: ice maker function failure. The most common cause is ice cubes jammed in the ice maker tray or ejector. Try this first — power-cycle the refrigerator. If that does not clear it, check for jammed ice in the tray.

What causes the 39E error?

  • Ice cubes jammed in the ice maker tray or ejector
  • Ice maker motor or ejector arm failure
  • Faulty ice maker sensor giving bad readings
  • Frozen water fill tube starving the tray
  • Loose or damaged ice maker wiring
  • Failed main control board

How to fix Samsung 39E — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Power-cycle the refrigerator
    Unplug the fridge for 2 to 5 minutes, then plug it back in. A jammed cycle can sometimes clear with a reset, and the ice maker will try a fresh harvest.
  2. Check for jammed ice in the tray
    Open the ice maker compartment and look for cubes stuck in the tray or around the ejector fingers. Remove any jammed ice by hand - do not force the ejector arm.
    Safety warning: Do not pry at the ejector mechanism with tools; it breaks easily.
  3. Make sure the ice bucket is seated properly
    A misaligned ice bucket can block the ejector and trigger 39E. Pull the bucket out, clear any spilled cubes underneath, and slide it back in until it locks.
  4. Confirm water is reaching the ice maker
    Check that the water valve behind the fridge is fully open and the line is not kinked. No water in the tray looks like a function failure to the control board.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • 39E returns after clearing jams and resetting
  • The ejector arm does not move during a harvest cycle
  • The ice maker motor or module needs replacement
  • Wiring or the main control board is at fault

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between 39E and 8E?

8E is the ice maker temperature sensor failing. 39E means the ice maker's harvesting mechanism itself failed repeatedly - the motor, ejector, or tray cycle.

Can I just turn the ice maker off to stop 39E?

Turning the ice maker off stops new harvest attempts, but the underlying fault is still there. Fix or replace the ice maker if you want the code gone for good.

How long should I wait for ice after clearing 39E?

Give it up to 24 hours. A healthy ice maker needs several hours to freeze its first batches after a reset.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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