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Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Icemaker sensor malfunction

Icemaking sensor open or short-circuited wire on icemaker water supply control panel.

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Icemaking sensor open or short-circuited wire on icemaker water supply control panel.

First step from the service manual

Make sure that the wire on each sensor is connected. Error indicators can only be checked in TEST mode.

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

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What Icemaker sensor malfunction means on a Kenmore refrigerator

The Kenmore refrigerator icemaker sensor malfunction code indicates that the control system has detected either an open circuit or a short circuit in the wiring associated with the icemaker's temperature sensor. This sensor monitors conditions on the icemaker water supply control panel and provides feedback to the main control board to regulate the ice-making cycle. When the circuit is broken (open) or unintentionally completed through an unintended path (short), the board cannot receive valid data from the sensor and triggers this error.

The most common root causes involve physical connection problems rather than outright component failure. A connector that has vibrated loose, a wire that has been pinched or chafed against a cabinet edge, or a terminal that has corroded over time can all produce the same open or short circuit condition. Because the sensor and its wiring run through areas that are exposed to moisture and temperature cycling, corrosion and insulation degradation are realistic long-term failure modes.

Important to note: this error code can only be observed and diagnosed while the refrigerator is in TEST mode. Standard operation will not display the fault in a way that is easy to capture or clear. Before replacing any components, the first step is to physically inspect and reseat every wire connector associated with the icemaker sensor circuit. If reseating connectors does not resolve the fault, the sensor itself or the wiring harness between the sensor and the control panel should be tested for continuity and resistance to confirm which component has failed.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Icemaker sensor malfunction

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected sensor wire connector

    Wiring / connection

    Vibration during normal operation can cause the sensor's wire connector to back out of its terminal on the icemaker control panel. Inspect each connector in the icemaker sensor circuit and firmly reseat any that feel loose or show signs of partial disconnection.

  2. 02

    Damaged or chafed wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring running to the icemaker sensor can be pinched against a freezer shelf bracket, door hinge area, or cabinet edge over time, cutting through the insulation and causing a short or open circuit. Look for visible wear, cuts, or melted insulation along the harness route.

  3. 03

    Corroded wire terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture in the freezer compartment can cause oxidation on the sensor connector terminals, increasing resistance to the point where the control board reads the circuit as open. Check terminals for green or white corrosion deposits and clean or replace affected connectors.

  4. 04

    Failed icemaker temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    If wiring and connectors test normal for continuity, the sensor itself may have an internal open or short. A sensor that has failed internally will produce an out-of-range resistance reading and will need to be replaced.

  5. 05

    Fault in the icemaker water supply control panel

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all associated wiring check out correctly, the control panel board that reads the sensor signal may have a defect causing it to misinterpret a normal signal as an open or short circuit. This is the least common cause and is typically diagnosed after all other components are ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Icemaker sensor malfunction

What does Icemaker sensor malfunction mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
This error means the control board has detected that the icemaker's temperature sensor circuit is either open (broken connection) or short-circuited somewhere between the sensor and the icemaker water supply control panel. The fault prevents the system from receiving valid sensor data, which disrupts normal ice production. The error can only be confirmed and viewed while the refrigerator is in TEST mode.
How do I fix an icemaker sensor malfunction on my Kenmore refrigerator?
Start by entering TEST mode and confirming the error is active, then power down the refrigerator and inspect every wire connector on the icemaker sensor circuit. Firmly reseat any loose connectors and look for chafed, pinched, or corroded wiring along the harness route. If connections appear sound, the sensor itself or the wiring harness may need to be tested for continuity and replaced if found defective.
Will resetting my Kenmore refrigerator clear the icemaker sensor malfunction code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the displayed fault, but the code will return if the underlying wiring or sensor problem has not been corrected. Because this error reflects an actual circuit condition (open or short), the fault will persist until the defective connection, wire, or sensor is physically repaired or replaced. Always diagnose the root cause before relying on a reset.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator when this error code is showing?
The refrigerator's cooling and food preservation functions are generally not immediately compromised by this fault, but the icemaker will not operate correctly while the sensor circuit is malfunctioning. You can continue storing food safely, but ice production should be considered unreliable until the issue is repaired. Leaving a short circuit unaddressed for an extended period could cause further damage to the wiring harness or control panel.
How much does it cost to repair an icemaker sensor malfunction on a Kenmore refrigerator?
If the repair only requires reseating a loose connector, there is no parts cost and minimal labor time. Replacing a failed icemaker sensor typically costs between $20 and $75 for the part, plus labor if a technician is hired. If the wiring harness or the icemaker control panel board needs replacement, total repair costs can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on parts availability and local labor rates.

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