Ice Auger (AFTWR17X11705 / AUGER84) – What Part Fixes This Problem?
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Understanding the Problem
The ice auger is the spiral plastic or metal blade inside the ice bin that feeds ice from the storage bin to the dispenser chute. When the auger is damaged, stripped or jammed with fused ice, the dispenser will fail to deliver cubes or will make loud grinding/noise when you press the dispenser lever. In many cases the auger itself is the failed part, but the true cause can also be a bad auger motor, broken spline/adapter or a control/actuator issue. Diagnosing auger problems involves inspecting the ice bin, testing the auger motor and checking for obstructions or ice buildup. Replacing a broken auger (or its drive assembly) usually restores normal dispensing, but you should be careful to identify whether the auger, the auger motor/gearbox, or a bad coupling is the failed component before buying parts.
Common Symptoms
No ice dispensed, dispenser button activates but only a humming noise, loud grinding or scraping from the ice bin, ice jams or shredded ice from the dispenser.
Common Causes
- Ice jam or hardened ice blocking the auger
- Worn or stripped auger spline/coupling between auger and motor
- Failed auger motor or gearbox (motor hums but does not turn)
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
Remove the ice bin and try to turn the auger by hand—if it’s hard to turn, clear any ice jams and inspect the auger spline; if the motor hums but the auger won’t turn, the motor/gear or coupling is likely faulty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if the auger or the motor is bad?
First remove the ice bin and check for ice bridging or large chunks blocking the auger. Try to turn the auger manually; if it turns freely and the motor still hums without rotating it, suspect the motor/gear or the coupling. If the auger is physically cracked, missing blades or has a stripped spline, the auger itself must be replaced. You can also disconnect power and measure motor continuity with a multimeter—an open motor winding indicates a failed motor.
Can I replace the auger myself and how long will it take?
Yes—on most refrigerators replacing the auger or auger assembly is a straightforward DIY job requiring basic tools. Steps: unplug the fridge, remove the ice bin, remove the old auger (often slides out or unclips), install the new auger ensuring the spline engages, reassemble and test. Allow 20–45 minutes depending on access and whether you also replace the motor or gearbox. If you’re not comfortable working near electrical components or the dispenser switch, call a technician.
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