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Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code IS E

Icing sensor error caused by short or open circuit in the icing sensor.

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Icing sensor error caused by short or open circuit in the icing sensor.

First step from the service manual

Check for loose connection in CON8 (Drawer) or CON4 (Swing), then check resistance between wires Red to Orange.

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

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What IS E means on a Kenmore refrigerator

The IS E error code on a Kenmore refrigerator indicates a fault in the icing sensor circuit. The icing sensor monitors frost or ice accumulation in specific areas of the refrigerator, such as the drawer or swing-door compartments, and feeds that data to the main control board. When the control board detects either a short circuit or an open circuit in the icing sensor wiring, it triggers the IS E code and halts normal sensor-dependent operations until the fault is resolved.

The first area to inspect is the wiring connector associated with the affected compartment type. Drawer-style models use connector CON8, while swing-door models use CON4. A loose, corroded, or damaged connector at either of these points is the most frequent cause of this error. After confirming the connectors are properly seated, the next diagnostic step is measuring resistance between the Red and Orange wires in the icing sensor circuit. An open circuit will show infinite or no resistance reading, while a short circuit will show near-zero resistance, both of which fall outside the normal operating range for the sensor.

If the wiring and connectors check out, the icing sensor itself may have failed internally. Sensors can fail due to moisture intrusion, physical damage, or age-related degradation. In some cases, the wiring harness between the connector and the sensor develops a break or insulation failure that produces the same out-of-range resistance reading. Identifying whether the fault is in the connector, the harness, or the sensor component itself will determine what needs to be replaced.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of IS E

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected wiring connector

    Wiring / connection

    A loose connection at CON8 (drawer models) or CON4 (swing models) is the most common trigger for this code. Reseating the connector firmly may clear the error immediately.

  2. 02

    Open circuit in the sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    A break in the wire between the connector and the icing sensor will produce an infinite resistance reading between the Red and Orange wires, indicating an open circuit. The damaged section of harness will need to be repaired or replaced.

  3. 03

    Short circuit in the sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    Insulation damage or pinched wiring can cause the Red and Orange wires to contact each other or a grounded surface, showing near-zero resistance. Inspect the harness routing for any pinch points or worn insulation.

  4. 04

    Failed icing sensor

    Part replacement

    The icing sensor itself can fail internally due to moisture exposure, physical damage, or age. If the wiring and connectors test normal but resistance readings are still out of range, the sensor component is likely defective.

  5. 05

    Corroded connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture inside the refrigerator compartment can cause oxidation on the CON8 or CON4 terminals, increasing resistance or breaking continuity entirely. Inspect the connector pins for discoloration, pitting, or corrosion buildup.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about IS E

What does IS E mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
IS E indicates an icing sensor error caused by either a short circuit or an open circuit in the icing sensor wiring. The control board cannot receive a valid signal from the sensor and flags the fault. The problem is most often traced to connector CON8 on drawer models or CON4 on swing-door models, though the sensor itself can also fail.
Can I fix the IS E error myself?
If the cause is a loose connector, you may be able to resolve it by locating CON8 or CON4 and firmly reseating the connection. Beyond that, you will need a multimeter to check resistance between the Red and Orange wires on the icing sensor circuit. If readings indicate an open or short circuit in the harness or sensor, replacing those components typically requires some technical comfort with appliance wiring.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the IS E code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying wiring fault or sensor failure is still present, the IS E error will return. The reset does not repair the circuit. A proper fix requires diagnosing and resolving the short or open circuit condition in the icing sensor wiring.
Is the IS E error code dangerous or an emergency?
The IS E code is not a safety emergency. It indicates a sensor monitoring fault, not a refrigerant leak or electrical hazard. Your refrigerator will likely continue cooling, but the icing sensor function will be impaired, which could affect frost management in the affected compartment. Addressing the fault promptly will prevent any secondary issues from developing.
How much does it cost to repair the IS E error on a Kenmore refrigerator?
If the fix is simply reseating a loose connector, there is no parts cost involved. Replacing a damaged wiring harness section or the icing sensor itself typically runs anywhere from $30 to $150 or more for parts depending on the specific model. Adding a professional technician for diagnosis and labor can bring the total repair cost to the $100 to $300 range.

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