Samsung RF18A5101SR/AA-00 Ice Maker & Ice Tray – Diagnosis and Parts
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
The Samsung RF18A5101SR family-hub style refrigerator uses an integrated ice maker and removable ice tray/mold. Common service calls for this model include no ice production, ice stuck in the tray, small or hollow cubes, intermittent filling, and water leaks under the tray. These symptoms usually trace back to one or more components: the ice maker module (which controls harvest and fill), the ice tray/mold itself, the water inlet valve, or the fill/harness and sensors. Diagnosing the problem correctly avoids unnecessary parts replacement. For example, a frozen/icy or warped ice tray can keep cubes from ejecting even when the motor works. Low water pressure or a restricted/old water filter will cause small or hollow cubes. Electrical faults in the ice maker control or a failed harvest heater/thermistor can cause no harvest or bent ejector arms. Start with simple checks—filter, water pressure, audible fill cycles—then move to component tests and replacements if needed.
Common Symptoms
No ice production, ice maker fills but won’t harvest, ice stuck in tray, small or hollow ice cubes, water leaking under ice compartment, clicking or humming noises at harvest/fill times.
Common Causes
- Failed ice maker assembly (motor/harvest heater/controls)
- Clogged/restricted water supply or faulty water inlet valve
- Warped/damaged ice tray/ice mold or blocked ejector arms
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: listen for the fill sound after a harvest cycle. If you don’t hear water fill, test the water inlet valve for continuity and check water pressure and the filter. If it fills but cubes don’t eject, inspect the ice mold for warping and test the ice maker motor and heater for continuity.
Frequently Asked Questions
My ice maker isn't making any ice. Should I replace the ice maker or the tray?
Start with simple checks: ensure the water filter isn't clogged and the water supply valve is open. If you hear the ice maker attempt to cycle but cubes are small or hollow, check the water inlet valve and water pressure. If the tray is warped or cubes are frozen to the mold, replace the ice tray first. If the tray looks fine and you get no fill or no motor/harvest action, the ice maker assembly is the more likely culprit.
How can I test the ice maker before buying parts?
Listen for the fill cycle after a harvest (usually a distinct water fill sound). Remove the ice tray and manually actuate the ejector arm to see if the motor runs. Check for continuity on the ice maker motor, heater, and thermistor with a multimeter per service manual values. Test the water inlet valve for continuity and verify water pressure at the supply. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical tests, replace inexpensive items first (filter, tray) and consult a technician for the ice maker 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.