Kenmore Temperature Sensor (Thermistor) – What Part Fixes This Problem?
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Understanding the Problem
The Kenmore refrigerator temperature sensor (often called a thermistor) tells the control board the air or evaporator temperature so the fridge can run cooling and defrost cycles correctly. When it fails the fridge may run too cold or warm, over-freeze items, display incorrect temperature, show error codes, run constantly, or have poor defrost performance. 1. Identify symptoms and locate the sensor - Symptoms include incorrect temperature readings, freezer or fridge too warm or too cold, intermittent cooling, or an error code (often E1, FF, or "sensor" depending on model). The thermistor is typically located behind the evaporator cover in the freezer, on the back wall of the fresh-food section, or clipped into an air duct between compartments. 2. Get the model number and correct replacement part - Write down your Kenmore model number from the tag (inside the fridge or on the door jamb). Order the exact thermistor specified for your model — sensors are not universal. If you can’t get the exact part immediately, note that many Kenmore units use NTC thermistors (~10K nominal at 25°C), but verify in the parts listing for your model. 3. Visual inspection and wiring check - Unplug the refrigerator or disconnect power. Remove the interior panels to access the sensor. Inspect the sensor and wiring harness for breaks, crushed wires, corrosion, or loose connectors. If wires are damaged, repair or replace harness/connectors before replacing the sensor. 4. Test the thermistor with a multimeter (how to diagnose) - Set your digital multimeter to the resistance (Ω) scale. Disconnect the sensor from the harness. Measure resistance across the two sensor leads at room temperature. Typical NTC thermistors used in many refrigerators read around ~10 kΩ at 25°C, but values vary by model — consult the service manual or parts listing for expected values. - Check for a reasonable change with temperature: warm the sensor slightly (cup of warm water briefly) and watch resistance fall (NTC) or cool it with ice — resistance should rise accordingly. No change, open circuit (infinite Ω), or short (near 0 Ω) indicates a bad sensor. 5. Check voltage at control board (if resistance checks OK) - With power restored and careful hands-off test, measure the DC voltage the control board supplies to the sensor harness per your model's wiring diagram. Incorrect voltage or no signal can indicate a bad control board or harness issue rather than the sensor. 6. Replace the sensor (step-by-step repair) - Unplug the refrigerator. Remove bins/shelves blocking access. Remove screws/panels to reach the sensor. Carefully unclip or unscrew the sensor from its mounting. Disconnect the two-pin connector (press tab to release). Install the new sensor by reversing removal: connect harness, secure sensor, reassemble panels and shelves. Restore power and allow the refrigerator to stabilize (several hours) to confirm correct operation. 7. Confirm repair and calibrate - After replacement, monitor temperature for 24–48 hours. If the control panel displays a calibration option, follow model instructions to recalibrate. If temperatures remain abnormal, test defrost components and the main control board. Safety note: Always disconnect power before opening electrical panels or handling wiring. If you’re uncomfortable working around refrigerant or electrical components, hire a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Incorrect temperature display, fridge/freezer too warm or too cold, constant compressor running, frequent defrost issues, or an error code indicating temperature-sensor failure.
Common Causes
- Failed thermistor (open or shorted)
- Damaged wiring or connector (break, corrosion, or loose plug)
- Faulty control board or sensor circuit providing incorrect voltage
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 ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Confirm a bad thermistor by measuring its resistance while changing temperature: resistance should change smoothly as you heat or cool the sensor. No change or open/short indicates a failed sensor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the thermistor is the problem or the control board?
Start by measuring the thermistor's resistance off the harness — it should change with temperature. If the sensor reads OK and its resistance changes appropriately, next test the control board's sensor voltage at the harness with the sensor connected (follow wiring diagram). No/incorrect voltage or no signal from the board points to the control board or harness. Replace the sensor only after verifying its resistance behavior; if the sensor passes and the board shows no proper sensor input/voltage, the board or harness is likely at fault.
Can I run the refrigerator with a bad temperature sensor temporarily?
Running with a failed sensor is not recommended. The control board relies on the sensor for proper cycling; without it the fridge may run constantly, fail to cool, over-freeze items, or skip defrost cycles — which can damage food and the appliance. If you must, keep the temperature monitored manually and arrange a replacement as soon as possible.
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