Ice Auger (AFTWR17X11705 / AUGER84) Not Turning — What Part Fixes This?
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Understanding the Problem
When the ice auger in a refrigerator door (the screw-shaped component that moves ice from the bin to the dispenser) stops turning, the dispenser will fail to deliver ice even though the bin is full. The auger can become jammed with fused ice, its motor can fail, the coupling between motor and auger can strip, or internal gears can break. Symptoms may include buzzing or grinding noises, the auger making partial turns, or the motor running without moving the auger. Diagnosing the root cause requires a few visual and simple electrical checks: remove the ice bin and inspect for ice jams, manually rotate the auger to check for free movement, listen for motor hum when operating the dispenser, and verify the motor receives power. In many cases the repair is a replacement of the auger assembly (in this case referenced by AFTWR17X11705 / AUGER84) or the small drive components that connect the motor to the auger.
Common Symptoms
Ice dispenser motor hums or buzzes but no ice dispenses; grinding or clicking noises; dispenser motor runs without turning the auger; ice present in bin but won’t move; intermittent dispensing or error codes related to dispenser.
Common Causes
- Ice jam or frozen/fused ice blocking the auger
- Failed auger motor or burned-out motor windings
- Stripped or broken auger-to-motor coupling/gearbox
- Damaged auger shaft or worn internal gears (physical wear or broken teeth)
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm the auger is the issue: remove the ice bin, manually rotate the auger — it should turn smoothly without tight spots. If the auger turns freely but the motor hums when dispensing, the motor or coupling is likely bad. Always disconnect power before removing the bin or testing electrical components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the auger assembly (AFTWR17X11705 / AUGER84) myself?
Yes — many ice auger replacements are DIY-friendly if you’re comfortable removing the ice bin, disconnecting a few fasteners and electrical connectors, and reversing the steps to reassemble. Always unplug the refrigerator or switch off the breaker first. If the auger is behind a molded cover or integrated into a dispenser door, you may need basic tools (screwdriver, nut driver) and about 20–60 minutes. If you’re not comfortable working near wiring or plastic components, hire a technician.
How much does it cost to repair a jammed or broken ice auger?
Parts: the auger assembly (AFTWR17X11705 / AUGER84) typically ranges from an inexpensive aftermarket price up to a manufacturer OEM price depending on source. Expect parts to range from about $30–$150. Labor: a service call and labor for a technician is commonly $80–$200 depending on region and complexity. If repair is simple (clearing jam or replacing coupling) costs will be at the low end; full assembly/motor replacement is at the higher end.
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