mypros+
Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Icemaker Unit

Faulty icemaker unit, motor or Hall IC; lead wire short circuit; faulty motor driver

Kenmore codesKenmore refrigerator codes

Faulty icemaker unit, motor or Hall IC; lead wire short circuit; faulty motor driver. Secondary error indicated by Section C LED turning OFF.

First step from the service manual

Remove Cover PCB and check for any loose connection in CON8.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for Icemaker Unit.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What Icemaker Unit means on a Kenmore refrigerator

The Kenmore refrigerator Icemaker Unit error indicates a fault within the icemaker assembly or its associated control circuitry. This error is triggered when the control board detects abnormal operation related to the icemaker motor, the Hall effect IC (integrated circuit) responsible for monitoring motor rotation, or the motor driver circuit that regulates power delivery to the icemaker. The Hall IC is a sensor that detects the magnetic pulses generated by the rotating motor; if it fails to receive the expected pulse signals, the system interprets this as a motor or sensor fault and logs the error. A secondary indicator for this fault is the Section C LED turning OFF on the diagnostic display, which can help technicians confirm the error source during active diagnostics.

The fault can stem from several distinct failure points. A short circuit in the lead wire harness connecting the icemaker to the main control board is a common culprit, as wiring in the freezer compartment is subject to repeated thermal cycling and physical stress from ice buildup. Loose or corroded connections at connector CON8 on the Cover PCB are also frequently responsible, since vibration and moisture can degrade contact integrity over time. Internal motor failure within the icemaker unit itself, or a burned or damaged motor driver component on the control board, can produce the same fault signal.

Diagnosis begins by removing the Cover PCB and inspecting CON8 for loose pins, corrosion, or damaged wiring. If the connector appears intact and secure, further testing of the icemaker motor windings and the Hall IC signal output is required. If the motor driver on the control board is damaged, board replacement rather than component-level repair is typically the practical solution.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Icemaker Unit

  1. 01

    Loose or corroded connection at CON8

    Wiring / connection

    The connector CON8 on the Cover PCB can develop loose pins or corrosion over time due to moisture and vibration. Inspecting and reseating this connector is the recommended first diagnostic step.

  2. 02

    Lead wire short circuit

    Part replacement

    The wiring harness running to the icemaker can develop a short circuit due to thermal stress, ice buildup pressing on the wires, or chafing against cabinet edges. Visual inspection of the full wire run from the icemaker to the control board should be performed.

  3. 03

    Faulty Hall effect IC

    Part replacement

    The Hall IC monitors icemaker motor rotation by detecting magnetic pulses. If this sensor fails, the control board cannot confirm motor movement and triggers the error. Replacement of the icemaker unit or sensor is required.

  4. 04

    Failed icemaker motor

    Part replacement

    The icemaker motor physically drives the ice-making cycle. A burned-out or seized motor will prevent the Hall IC from detecting rotation, producing the same fault. The motor or full icemaker assembly typically needs replacement.

  5. 05

    Faulty motor driver on control board

    Part replacement

    The motor driver circuit on the main or Cover PCB regulates power delivery to the icemaker motor. If this component is damaged, the motor will not receive proper power signals. Board replacement is generally required in this scenario.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Icemaker Unit

What does Icemaker Unit mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
This error indicates a detected fault in the icemaker assembly, its drive motor, the Hall effect IC sensor, the connecting wiring, or the motor driver circuit on the control board. The control board is not receiving the expected signals confirming normal icemaker motor operation. A secondary sign of this fault is the Section C LED turning OFF during diagnostics. Diagnosis starts with checking connector CON8 on the Cover PCB for loose or corroded connections.
Can I fix the Kenmore refrigerator Icemaker Unit error myself?
Some causes are DIY-accessible, such as reseating a loose connection at CON8 on the Cover PCB or inspecting the wiring harness for visible damage. However, diagnosing a failed Hall IC, a faulty motor, or a damaged motor driver circuit requires component-level testing and comfort working with refrigerator electronics. If basic connection checks do not clear the fault, professional service is recommended.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator when this error is showing?
The refrigerator's cooling and food preservation functions are generally not directly affected by an icemaker error, so keeping food cold should continue normally. However, ice production will be disrupted or stopped entirely while the fault is active. It is best to address the error promptly to avoid any secondary issues from a wiring short in the freezer compartment.
How much does it cost to repair the Kenmore refrigerator Icemaker Unit error?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Wiring harness replacement typically ranges from $50 to $150 in parts, while a replacement icemaker assembly can cost between $80 and $250 depending on the model. If the control board motor driver is at fault, board replacement can range from $150 to $400 or more. Labor charges from a technician will add to these estimates.
Will resetting my Kenmore refrigerator clear the Icemaker Unit error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but if an underlying fault is present, such as a failed motor, a damaged Hall IC, or a short in the wiring, the error will return once the system runs its diagnostics again. Resetting the unit is a reasonable first step, but it is not a substitute for physically inspecting CON8 and the icemaker wiring as outlined in the diagnostic procedure.

Related Kenmore refrigerator codes

All Kenmore refrigerator codes
View all 146 Kenmore refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass