Home › Kenmore › Refrigerators › C
Kenmore Refrigerator C Error Code
Compartment temperature sensor failure on Kenmore refrigerators.
KenmoreAll Kenmore refrigerator codes
A C means a temperature sensor (thermistor) problem, and the display it shows on tells you which one. On the refrigerator display it's the fresh-food sensor; on the freezer display, the freezer sensor.
Compatible models
Kenmore refrigerators with a 106 model prefix, per Sears PartsDirect.
Also shown as
CF on the same freezer display is a communication fault, a different problem. On 111 Trio models a sealed-system failure reads C1, a far more serious code.
Difficulty
Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore refrigerator codes.
How to fix Kenmore C
Note which display shows the C
Write down whether it's on the refrigerator or freezer side. That decides which sensor you're dealing with.
Reseat the sensor harness
Unplug the refrigerator first. Sears PartsDirect starts by reconnecting a loose thermistor harness and replacing the harness if it's damaged.
Replace the thermistor
A harness in good shape leaves the sensor as the next part. Order the one for the right compartment using your full model number.
When to call a technician
A new sensor, a sound harness and the C still on the display point to the control; have a technician check it.
Parts linked to C
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the C code?
Kenmore refrigerators with a 106 model prefix, per Sears PartsDirect.
Can I fix Kenmore C myself?
Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear C, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.
Other Kenmore refrigerator codes
- Er FFFreezer evaporator fan fault
- Er IFIce compartment fan has failed
- Er CFCondenser fan motor problem
- Er COBoards aren't communicating
- Er FS / Er rSFreezer or refrigerator temperature sensor fault
- F dH / r dHDefrost didn't warm the coil enough
- F dS / r dSDefrost sensor fault
- Er IS / Er ItIce maker sensor or ice maker fault
- Er gFWater flow meter error
- dAir damper is stuck
- CFControl board and user interface lost contact
- OP / SHSensor circuit reads open or shorted
- SY EFFreezer fan circuit has failed
- SY CE / SY CFControl board and door interface out of contact
- C1Sealed refrigerant system failure
- F3 / r3Defrost heater failure
- dr / dFDoor open over an hour or bad door switch
- ESDispenser failure, often a stuck button
- d2Forced defrost is running
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.