A loose or cracked Samsung freezer handle cover can make opening and closing the door frustrating. Over time, wear and tear often cause the locking tabs to break or the cover itself to split. Luckily, replacing it is a straightforward project you can do at home, saving both time and money.
This guide walks you through the process of replacing the DA67-02291A freezer handle cover on your Samsung refrigerator.
What the Freezer Handle Cover Does
The freezer handle cover is a removable trim piece that sits behind the handle on your Samsung freezer door. It conceals the mounting screws and gives the door a smooth, finished look.
When the cover becomes cracked or the tabs break, it no longer stays in place. Swapping it out with a new part restores both function and appearance.
Common Signs the Cover Needs Replacement
Knowing when it is time to replace the freezer handle cover can save you from frustration later. Look for these indicators:
- Cracks running along the length or corners of the cover
- Handle cover that wiggles or feels loose even after tightening the screws
- Broken or missing locking tabs
- Difficulty opening or closing the freezer door smoothly
- Scratches, chips, or discoloration that affect the appearance
- Cover that will not snap back into place after removal
- Rattling or shifting noises when pulling the handle
Benefits of Replacing the Freezer Handle Cover
Replacing the DA67-02291A cover offers more than just cosmetic improvement. Benefits include:
- Restored stability when opening and closing the freezer
- Longer lifespan for the handle and mounting screws
- Better protection for the mounting area from wear
- Improved look of the freezer door without visible damage
- Easier cleaning since the new cover fits tightly
- Reduced the chance of further damage caused by a loose or broken cover
- Increased satisfaction from a smooth, solid-feeling handle
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Gather these items before starting:
- 2.5 mm Allen wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Replacement Samsung DA67-02291A freezer handle cover
Safety Guidelines
Keep these precautions in mind before beginning the repair:
- Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the breaker to prevent electrical shock.
- Allow the appliance to cool down if it was recently used.
- Work carefully and take your time to avoid injury.
- Set up in a well-lit space free from clutter. Keep children and pets away.
- Never handle appliance parts with wet hands. Make sure the area is dry.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- Use safety glasses or a dust mask if working in dusty conditions.
- Check your user manual for any model-specific safety instructions.
How to Replace the Freezer Handle Cover on a Samsung Refrigerator
Follow these steps to remove the damaged cover and install the new replacement part properly.
Step 1. Access the Handle
- Open the freezer door fully to access the handle cover.
- Locate the handle mounting panel situated directly behind the movable handle.
Step 2. Remove the Door Handle
- On the end opposite the hinge, lift the handle slightly to expose the set screw.
- Use a 2.5 mm Allen wrench to loosen (but not remove) the set screw.
- Pull firmly on the handle to slide it off the left and right mounting studs.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the round mounting stud.
- Set all handle hardware aside in a safe spot.
Step 3. Remove the Old Handle Cover
- Locate the two locking tabs on either side of the freezer handle cover.
- Lift upwards on the front lip of the cover near the tabs to release them.
- Pull the cover straight forward to detach the rear alignment tabs.
- Remove the screws holding the black and white spacers with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Carefully take out both spacers.
- Look inside the door opening for the spring mechanism and press it back with a flathead screwdriver.
- Remove the old freezer handle cover completely.
Step 4. Transfer Parts from the Old Cover
- Remove the hinge pin from the old cover.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw plate from the old cover.
- Clean any grease, dust, or grime from the hinge pin and screw plate.
Step 5. Install the Replacement Cover
- Insert the screw plate into the backside of the new cover.
- Insert the mounting stud through the front and tighten it with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Apply a small drop of super glue on either side of the stud to secure it.
- Press the hinge pin into the slot until it locks into place.
- Optionally apply white lithium grease to the hinge pin ends for smooth movement.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to press back the spring mechanism in the door.
- Slide the new cover into position and release the spring to lock it.
Step 6. Reassemble the Door
- Reinsert the black and white spacers into their correct positions.
- Secure the spacers with their screws.
- Align the rear tabs of the cover with the slots and press until it clicks into place.
- Align the handle with the left mounting stud, lift, and press it into position.
- Place the handle on the right mounting stud and tighten the set screw with the Allen wrench.
- Open and close the freezer door several times to confirm smooth operation.
Next Steps
If your current cover is cracked, loose, or just worn down, swapping it out with the DA67-02291A part will bring back that smooth and solid feel every time you open the freezer. Once you’ve put the new cover in place and reassembled the door, you’ll not only restore function but also improve the look of your refrigerator. Taking care of this simple fix now saves future frustration and keeps your appliance working the way it should.