Display shows tC or tF and the refrigerator may not cool correctly or may be in test mode.

Safety first: No internal disassembly is required for basic checks; unplug only if resetting the control board.

• Check user settings: On many GE models, tC indicates TurboCool is active. Verify in the user manual or on the control panel. If TurboCool is on, press the TurboCool button to turn it off.
• Exit test mode: If the display is unresponsive or shows unusual combinations (tC, 0, 1, etc.), the unit may be in diagnostic mode. Press and hold the appropriate buttons (often 1 and 5 or 3 and 5) for 3–5 seconds to exit, per your model's tech sheet.
• Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug back in to reset the control board.
• Monitor temperatures: Use a thermometer in both compartments. If temperatures remain off and tC/tF reappears, a thermistor or control board fault may be present and should be diagnosed by a technician.