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Kenmore Refrigerator C1 Error Code
Sealed refrigerant system failure on Kenmore refrigerators.
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C1 is the serious one. The control has detected a sealed refrigerant system failure, which Sears PartsDirect ties to a low refrigerant charge or a defective compressor.
Compatible models
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer refrigerators with a 111 model prefix, shown in the diagnostic mode described by Sears PartsDirect.
Also shown as
Don't mix it up with C on 106-prefix models, which is a temperature sensor fault.
Difficulty
Try the basic checks, but the usual fix is a technician's job.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore refrigerator codes.
How to fix Kenmore C1
Check the temperatures
Put a thermometer in each compartment. A freezer well above 0°F (-18°C) or a fresh-food side over 40°F (4°C) means the food is at risk.
Move perishables out
Shift meat, dairy and leftovers into coolers with ice, or a second freezer if you have one, while you wait for service.
Note the details for the technician
Write down the full model number and the codes from diagnostic mode, plus whether you can hear the compressor running.
When to call a technician
Book a refrigeration technician. Refrigerant has to be recovered and recharged by an EPA-certified technician, and the sealed system should never be opened at home.
Parts linked to C1
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 C1 code?
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer refrigerators with a 111 model prefix, shown in the diagnostic mode described by Sears PartsDirect.
Can I fix Kenmore C1 myself?
Only the basic checks. You can safely try the steps above, but C1 usually points to a part or fault that needs a technician.
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
- CCompartment temperature sensor failure
- 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
- 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.