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Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code R5

Defrost time lasted more than one hour and the defrost sensor never reached 10°C (50°F).

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What the R5 error code actually means

The R5 error means your refrigerator's control board has detected that the freezer fan motor has stopped spinning or is unable to spin properly. This fan is responsible for circulating cold air throughout the freezer and refrigerator compartments, so when it stops working, temperatures can rise and food may spoil. The problem could be something as simple as ice or debris blocking the fan blade, or it could point to a failed fan motor that needs to be replaced.

Diagnostic procedure

The full R5 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Check FUSE-M, DEF-SENSOR, Drain, Heater Drive Relay.
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Most common causes of R5

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Ice buildup jamming the fan blade
  2. 2Physical obstruction blocking the F-FAN
  3. 3Failed freezer fan motor
  4. 4Faulty wiring harness to the F-FAN motor

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Questions people ask about R5

What does error code R5 mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
R5 means the control board has detected that the freezer fan motor (F-FAN) is locked, meaning it is not spinning at the expected speed or is not spinning at all. This can be caused by a physical obstruction, ice buildup around the blade, or a failed motor. Start by checking whether anything is blocking the fan before assuming the motor has failed.
Can I still use my Kenmore refrigerator when it shows the R5 error code?
You can continue using it in the short term, but cooling performance will be significantly reduced without the F-FAN circulating air. Food safety becomes a concern relatively quickly, especially for the fresh food compartment, which depends heavily on airflow from the freezer. Address R5 as soon as possible and keep a close eye on internal temperatures in the meantime.
Will the R5 code clear itself after I remove the obstruction from the fan?
After removing the obstruction or defrosting the ice around the F-FAN, unplug the refrigerator for 30 to 60 seconds and then restore power to reset the control board. If the fan motor is now spinning freely and the wiring is intact, R5 should not return. If the code comes back after the reset, the motor itself is likely faulty and needs replacement.
How do I fix error code R5 on a Kenmore refrigerator?
Begin by unplugging the refrigerator and inspecting the freezer fan blade for ice accumulation or physical obstructions. If ice is present, manually defrost the freezer and allow it to dry before restarting. If the blade is clear, check the wiring harness connector at the F-FAN motor for damage or corrosion. If the motor itself does not spin freely by hand or shows no continuity across its terminals, replace the freezer fan motor.
How much does it cost to fix a Kenmore refrigerator R5 error?
If the cause is just an obstruction or ice buildup, the fix costs nothing. A replacement freezer fan motor typically runs between $20 and $60 for the part, and the repair is accessible to most DIYers since the motor is usually located behind an interior freezer panel held in place by a few screws. If a professional technician is needed, expect a service call fee plus labor, which commonly brings the total to $100 to $200 depending on your area.

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