KSCS23INSS01 KitchenAid Refrigerator damper assembly noises

[mike12345]

Model Number

KSCS23INSS01

Brand

KitchenAid

Age

More than 10 years

My old KItchenAid makes strange noises, 2 clicks from the freezer, then a grinding/clicking sound from the damper in the fridge. I pulled the damper and manually pushed it open, and the freezer clicks appear to be a signal for the damper stepper to close a little, then two more clicks and a little more closed, until it is finally fully closed.

At that point the clicks continue and the damper stays closed and it sounds like a gear inside the damper assembly is slipping repeatedly. Is the control board trying to zero the damper stepper motor and not getting feedback due to the stripped gear, so it just keeps trying? The clicks and gear grinding are constant. I ordered a damper assembly, but it was pricey and I don't want to replace the wrong part. An audio clip is attached. Thank you!

 

[Jake]

Yes, its the damper(aka air baffle) stripping out, the new damper should fix it.

Here's the damper for your model, in case others need it too:
Air-Baffle WP2220377


Let us know how it goes.

Jake

 

[mike12345]

The new damper hasn't arrived yet, but it appears to be able to maintain freezer and refrigerator temperature for the most part, but not always. However, the compressor is starting and stopping frequently (every few seconds sometimes) and the display sometimes goes haywire, for example reading 70 degrees in the fridge until I push the set button. I notice the condenser coils underneath are quite dirty, but I see no way to clean them. I tried to run diagnostics, but after the first two thermistor tests it exits out of test 3 and I can't go further. Maybe time for a new refrigerator?

 

[Jake]

Yes, It sounds like the control board is going out too, its been discontinued so KitchenAid designed a KIT to replace that discontinued board.

Here it is for your model: Cntrl-Elec W10823804

Or you can start refrigerator shopping.

Jake

 

[mike12345]

Ordered a new KitchenAid, almost identical. The old one lasted almost 20 years and still works, sort of. Thanks very much for the advice

 

[Jake]

Glad to help!

Jake