The auger drive blade, also called the drive plate, connects the auger motor to the ice dispenser in your Frigidaire refrigerator. It helps rotate the auger so it can push ice forward and through the dispenser opening. If this blade becomes stripped or damaged, the motor may spin without moving the auger, which means no ice will come out of the dispenser.
If ice is no longer dispensing or the blade fails a test, it is time to replace it.
Signs the Auger Drive Blade Needs Replacement
The auger drive blade is a small part, but when it wears out, it can cause the ice system to stop working properly. These signs may help you confirm if the blade is the problem:
- Ice does not come out of the dispenser even though the bin is full
- You hear the auger motor running, but the ice does not move
- Grinding or clicking sounds come from the ice maker when you press the dispenser lever
- The blade looks stripped, cracked, or worn when inspected
- Ice builds up in the chute or bin because it is not being pushed out
- The dispenser works only some of the time or stops suddenly during use
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- 1/4 inch nut driver
Safety Reminders
Working on a refrigerator safely means following proper steps and handling parts with care. Keep these points in mind:
- Always unplug the refrigerator or turn off the circuit breaker before starting any repair to prevent electrical shock
- Turn off the water supply at the valve to avoid leaks when parts are removed
- Let the refrigerator cool completely if it was used recently
- Dry your hands completely and avoid working near water
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts or broken components
- Use safety glasses and a dust mask if there is dust or small debris present
- Take your time while working to avoid accidents or mistakes
- Work in a bright space so you can clearly see small parts and screws
- Keep the work area clean and remove anything that might be in the way. Keep children and pets away from your workspace
- Do not touch bare wires or electrical terminals. Use a non-metal tool or wear insulating gloves if you need to move any wires
- Check the refrigerator’s manual for model-specific guidance or diagrams that match your part
How to Replace the Auger Drive Blade
Follow these steps to take out the damaged auger drive blade and install a new one so your ice dispenser works properly again.
Access the Auger Motor
- Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it from the power outlet.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the fridge.
- Open the freezer door and remove the ice bin.
- Locate the two 1/4-inch screws at the bottom of the auger housing and remove them.
Remove the Auger Drive Blade
- Lift the auger housing off the rails.
- Set the auger housing on a towel-covered table or surface.
- Disconnect the wiring harness connected to the auger motor.
- Use a mallet to gently tap the auger drive blade until it comes off.
Install the New Auger Drive Blade
- Position the new auger drive blade on the auger shaft.
- Tap the new blade with the mallet until it fits tightly.
- Reconnect the wiring to the auger motor.
- Place the auger housing back onto the rails inside the freezer.
- Reinstall the two 1/4-inch screws at the base of the housing.
Final Steps and Testing
- Slide the ice bin back into place.
- Close the freezer door.
- Plug the refrigerator back into the outlet or turn the circuit breaker back on.
- Reconnect the water supply to the fridge.
- Wait a few hours for the fridge to make ice.
- Test the dispenser to check if ice is being dispensed properly.
When to Contact a Technician Instead
Although replacing the auger drive blade is a repair many homeowners can complete, there are situations where calling a technician may be the better choice. Consider professional help if:
- You do not feel confident working with electrical parts
- The auger motor does not respond at all, even with a working blade
- Wiring near the motor appears damaged or disconnected
- You cannot remove the ice bin or auger housing without force
- Screws or parts appear rusted or stripped during the process
- The replacement part does not match the original or does not fit correctly
- Other parts, like the motor or control board, also show signs of failure
In these cases, getting expert help can save time and prevent further problems.
Final Thoughts
Fixing your Frigidaire ice dispenser might come down to one small part: the auger drive blade. Changing it is a task many people can handle on their own. Watching for signs like a noisy auger or ice that won’t move helps you catch the problem early. Having the right tools and a clear space makes the work easier, and if you take your time, it can go smoothly.
If the repair doesn’t go as planned or something feels off, calling a technician is a good next step. Issues like wiring problems, stuck parts, or a motor that won’t run may need a closer look from someone trained.
Getting your ice maker working again brings relief and a bit of satisfaction. Whether you finish the repair yourself or ask for help, it’s a useful fix that helps keep your fridge running well.