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Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code i2

Icemaker room sensor is read as open or shorted.

Kenmore codesKenmore refrigerator codes

Icemaker room sensor is read as open or shorted.

First step from the service manual

Check the wiring connections in each part and at Main PCB.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What i2 means on a Kenmore refrigerator

The i2 error code on a Kenmore refrigerator indicates that the icemaker room (compartment) temperature sensor is reading as either open or shorted. This sensor is a thermistor, a resistive component whose resistance changes predictably with temperature. When the Main PCB receives a signal that falls outside the expected resistance range, either infinitely high (open circuit) or near zero (short circuit), it cannot determine a valid temperature reading for the icemaker compartment and triggers the i2 fault code.

An open condition typically results from a broken wire, a corroded or disconnected terminal, or a failed thermistor where the internal element has fractured. A shorted condition usually points to damaged wiring insulation where two conductors are in contact, moisture intrusion at a connector, or a thermistor that has internally failed to near-zero resistance. Both conditions prevent the control board from regulating icemaker compartment temperature correctly, which can result in ice production problems or the icemaker shutting down entirely.

The first diagnostic step is to inspect all wiring connectors between the icemaker room sensor and the Main PCB. Connectors should be fully seated, free of corrosion, and undamaged. If the connectors check out, the thermistor itself should be tested with a multimeter to confirm its resistance is within the expected range for its current temperature. If wiring and connectors are intact and the thermistor reads open or shorted, sensor replacement is indicated.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of i2

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected wiring connector

    Wiring / connection

    A connector between the icemaker room sensor and the Main PCB may have worked loose or pulled apart, creating an open circuit. Inspect all connectors along the sensor wiring harness for secure seating and physical damage.

  2. 02

    Failed icemaker room thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself may have internally failed, causing it to read open or shorted regardless of temperature. Testing with a multimeter will show a resistance reading that is either infinite or near zero rather than the expected value for the compartment temperature.

  3. 03

    Corroded or damaged connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture in the icemaker compartment can corrode connector pins over time, increasing resistance to the point of an open reading or creating shorts between terminals. Look for green or white oxidation buildup on the connector pins.

  4. 04

    Damaged wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the sensor and the Main PCB may have chafed, pinched, or broken insulation, leading to a short or open in the circuit. Inspect the full length of the harness for visible damage, especially near any sharp edges or moving components.

  5. 05

    Faulty Main PCB

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring test within normal parameters, the Main PCB input circuit for the icemaker room sensor may have failed. This is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all wiring and the sensor have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about i2

What does i2 mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
The i2 code means the icemaker room temperature sensor is reading as open or shorted at the Main PCB. The control board cannot get a valid temperature signal from that sensor, so it flags the fault. This typically points to a wiring connection problem or a failed thermistor in the icemaker compartment.
How do I fix the i2 error code on my Kenmore refrigerator?
Start by checking all wiring connectors between the icemaker room sensor and the Main PCB, ensuring they are fully seated and free of corrosion or damage. If the connectors are secure, test the thermistor with a multimeter to determine if it is reading open or shorted. A faulty thermistor will need to be replaced, and if the sensor and wiring both test correctly, the Main PCB should be evaluated.
Will resetting my Kenmore refrigerator clear the i2 error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the i2 code from the display, but if the underlying sensor or wiring fault is still present, the code will return. Clearing the code without addressing the root cause does not restore proper icemaker temperature monitoring. A proper repair to the sensor or wiring is required for the code to stay cleared.
Is the i2 error code on a Kenmore refrigerator a safety concern?
The i2 code is not an immediate safety hazard, but it does mean the refrigerator cannot monitor or control the icemaker compartment temperature properly. This can result in ice production stopping or the icemaker behaving erratically. It is best to address the fault promptly to avoid prolonged issues with ice production or potential food safety concerns if compartment temperatures are affected.
How much does it cost to repair the i2 error code on a Kenmore refrigerator?
If only a connector needs reseating or cleaning, the cost can be minimal, covering just a service call fee in the range of $75 to $150. If the icemaker room thermistor requires replacement, parts typically cost in the $15 to $50 range plus labor. A Main PCB replacement, if needed, is significantly more expensive, generally ranging from $150 to $400 or more depending on the model and labor rates in your area.

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