Ice Maker Dispenses Crushed Ice but No Cubes – What Part Fixes This?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your refrigerator dispenser only gives crushed ice and will not dispense full cubes, the issue is usually in the dispenser/auger/crusher assembly or the selector/switch that chooses cube vs. crushed. Many fridge models use a motor-driven auger to push ice through a crusher blade when crushed is selected; if the crusher mechanism is stuck or the cube-path is blocked, you'll only get crushed or partial ice. Other possible causes include a failed cubed-ice actuator/selector switch, a damaged or worn auger motor or coupler, ice jam inside the chute or crusher, or a faulty dispenser control board that isn’t switching the crusher on/off correctly. Water fill problems or an overfilled ice bin usually cause different symptoms (small or slushy ice) but can indirectly contribute by jamming mechanisms.
Common Symptoms
Fridge dispenses only crushed/ground ice or slushy bits; cubed setting produces nothing or only small pieces; loud grinding/clanking noises from the dispenser; auger motor runs but no cubes; dispenser sometimes stuck or jammed.
Common Causes
- Selector switch or push-button for cubed/crushed is faulty or not making contact
- Auger motor or motor coupling is worn, stripped, or seized
- Ice crusher assembly is jammed, worn, or broken and reroutes all ice through the crusher
- Ice chute or bin jam (melted/refrozen ice) blocking cube ejection
- Dispenser control board or relay failing to switch between cube and crushed modes
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm the faulty part, first remove the ice bin and manually inspect/rotate the auger. Then switch between crushed and cubed settings while listening for the auger/crusher motor and for a selector click. If the motor runs but cubes don't eject, the cubed path or selector is likely bad; if nothing runs, suspect the auger motor, switch, or control board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix a crushed-only dispenser myself?
Yes, many fixes are DIY-friendly: unplug the fridge, remove the ice bin, inspect for jams, test the selector switch by toggling it while listening for motor action, and try manually turning the auger. If the auger motor or switch is defective you can replace those parts with basic tools. If the control board is suspected or wiring is damaged, consider a trained technician.
Why does the dispenser make loud grinding noises when I choose cubed ice?
Loud grinding usually means the crusher or auger gears are damaged or jammed. The motor may be trying to turn a stuck auger or broken crusher blade. Clear jams and inspect gears; if teeth are stripped or blades damaged, replace the auger, coupler, or crusher assembly.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.