Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement?

The most frequently replaced parts for LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement

Q: What does LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement mean?

Compressor clicks or hums but won't start, fridge won't cool, or you hear repeated clicking. Replacing the PTC start relay and overload protector fixes it.

Q: How do I fix LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

LG Refrigerator Compressor Start Relay & Overload Replacement — What This Part Does

The PTC start relay is the solid-state device that applies power to the compressor’s start winding for a fraction of a second during startup. It uses a positive temperature coefficient thermistor that briefly conducts current, then heats up and limits current flow once the compressor motor is running. The overload protector sits in the same assembly and opens the circuit if the compressor draws too much current or overheats, protecting the motor from damage.

These components fail from repeated hard-start cycles, heat stress, or simple age. A bad PTC relay can go open-circuit or develop too much resistance to pass startup current. A failed overload protector may trip prematurely or stick open. Either failure prevents the compressor from running, so your refrigerator stops cooling.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Compressor clicks but won’t start You hear a click every few minutes from the back of the fridge, but the compressor never runs and the cabinet stays warm.
Compressor hums briefly then stops The compressor hums for a second or two, clicks off, and repeats the cycle without ever fully starting.
Refrigerator won’t cool at all Both fresh food and freezer compartments are warming up because the compressor is not running.
Repeated clicking from rear panel You hear rhythmic clicking every 30 seconds to a few minutes as the start relay tries and fails to energize the compressor.
Visible burn marks or melting on start device The plastic housing of the relay or overload shows charring, melting, or burn damage when you inspect the compressor compartment.
No continuity through PTC relay terminals Testing the relay between R and S terminals with a multimeter shows no continuity or extremely high resistance instead of the normal 3 to 12 ohms at room temperature.

How to Replace It

Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet and pull the unit away from the wall so you can access the rear.
Remove the rear lower access panel by unscrewing the sheet-metal screws holding it in place (panel covers the compressor compartment).
Locate the compressor (black cylindrical component) and identify the start device assembly plugged onto the three pins on the side of the compressor.
Pull the wire connectors off the start relay and overload assembly, then pull the entire start device straight off the compressor pins (you may need to wiggle it gently).
Inspect the old relay for burn marks, melting, or cracks, and if you have a multimeter, check for continuity between the R and S terminals (should read 3 to 12 ohms at room temperature).
Compare your old part to the new relay and overload assembly to confirm pin layout and wire terminals match.
Verify wire positions against your refrigerator’s wiring diagram (usually glued inside the compressor compartment or on the back wall) to avoid short circuits during reinstallation.
Push the new start relay and overload assembly firmly onto the compressor pins until it seats completely, then reconnect the wire terminals to the correct positions.
Reinstall the rear access panel, plug the refrigerator back in, and listen for the compressor to start and run continuously within a minute or two.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
LG compressor start relay and overload protector assembly	Amazon \| Common LG part numbers include EBG32952202 (replaces 6748C-0002C, 4469212), EBG60663207 (replaces EBG60663219, 2667139), and EBG60663230. Find your exact part number on the model and serial plate inside the fresh-food compartment or on the left interior wall, then search that model number on the LG parts site or cross-reference it with a parts supplier.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If you replace a known-good start relay and overload assembly and the compressor still won’t start, the compressor itself may have internal damage or the sealed refrigerant system may have a fault. Compressor replacement or sealed-system work requires refrigerant recovery, vacuum equipment, and an EPA Section 608 license, so call a refrigeration technician. Also call a pro if you’re not comfortable working with live electrical terminals or if your model has a hard-to-reach compressor compartment that requires disassembly beyond a simple rear panel.