Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Er R2

The Er R2 error code on a Kenmore refrigerator indicates that the main control board has detected either a short circuit or an open circuit condition in the R2 temperature sensor, which is positioned in the lower portion of the refrigerator compartment. This sensor is a thermistor, meaning its resistance changes predictably with temperature. The control board continuously monitors this resistance to track compartment temperature and regulate the cooling cycle. When the measured resistance falls outside the expected range, either too low (short) or infinitely high (open), the board flags the Er R2 fault.

This is designated a secondary error, meaning it is typically logged as a supporting fault alongside another primary error code rather than appearing in isolation. A short circuit condition occurs when the sensor circuit has near-zero resistance, often due to damaged wiring or a failed sensor element. An open circuit condition occurs when there is a complete break in the circuit, producing no readable resistance signal. Both conditions prevent the control board from obtaining accurate temperature data for the lower refrigerator zone, which can lead to improper cooling or erratic compressor behavior.

The first diagnostic step is to inspect the wiring harness connection between the main PCB and the R2 sensor for looseness, corrosion, or damage. After confirming a secure connection, the sensor's resistance should be measured with a multimeter and compared against the expected value for the current ambient temperature. A sensor with a short will read near 0 ohms, while an open sensor will read OL or infinite resistance. If the wiring is intact and the sensor reads out of specification, sensor replacement is the appropriate repair.