The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Refrigerator control panel not working are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
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Refrigerator Light Not Working? Refrigerator TroubleshootingTo determine if the user control and display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the user control and display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display is not working, check the power to the user control and display board. If the user control and display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
The dispenser control board governs most of the functions of the dispenser system. If only one dispenser part is not working, it is probable that an individual part has failed. In this case, test each of the dispenser components before testing the control board. If the entire dispenser system is not working, the control board is more likely to be at fault.
To determine if the display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display board is not working, check for power to the display board. If the display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
The wires from the control panel to the control board may be loose or have become disconnected. Make sure the wire harness connectors are tight. A damaged wire harness will need to be replaced.
On some refrigerator models the user controls are part of the ice and water dispensers front panel. If none of the control panel buttons are working, it's probable the main control board is malfunctioning. However, if some of the buttons on the control panel are still functioning, it's more likely the unit's user control and display is faulty. If this component is sold as part of the dispenser front panel, the entire assembly can be replaced.
Ensure plug is tightly pushed into electrical outlet and outlet is supplying power. Check fuses or circuit breaker if needed. It is best to have the refrigerator on a separate dedicated circuit. If the refrigerator is connected to a ground fault receptacle it may need to be plugged into a regular receptacle. Using a ground fault receptacle for a refrigerator is not recommended.
The main control board might be defective. However, the control board is rarely at fault for this problem. Before replacing the control board, first check all of the dispenser components. If none of the dispenser components are defective, consider replacing the main control board.
The control board might be defective. However, the control board is rarely at fault for this problem. Before replacing the control board, first check all of the dispenser components. If none of the dispenser components are defective, consider replacing the control board.
Most refrigerator control panels located on the door have a "Child Lock" feature which prevents unwanted use of the controls. When activated, the control panel buttons will not work. On most models, pressing the "Child Lock" button for 3 to 4 seconds will lock and unlock this function. See the owner’s manual for more detailed instructions.
