If your Frigidaire refrigerator is having trouble dispensing ice, the auger might be the cause. The auger is the part inside the ice bin that rotates to push ice toward the dispenser chute. Over time, it can wear out, get clogged with mineral buildup, or break. When this happens, you might hear unusual noises or find that no ice comes out even though the bin is full.
Replacing a faulty auger can help restore the function of your ice dispenser. Below is a guide to walk you through the process, along with the tools and precautions you’ll need before starting.
What You’ll Need
Before starting the repair, gather the following tools and materials:
- A replacement auger that fits your specific Frigidaire model
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Crescent wrench
- Soft towel or cloth
Having all the tools ready can help you complete the task smoothly.
Safety Tips Before You Begin
Working on any appliance requires care. Follow these safety steps to stay safe and avoid damage:
- Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the power at the circuit breaker to prevent an electric shock
- Shut off the water supply connected to the fridge
- Wait for the appliance to cool if it was recently in use
- Keep towels nearby to catch any water during the repair
- Work in a clean, well-lit space
- Clear the area of clutter and keep pets and children away
- Use dry hands when working with any appliance parts
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges
- Handle all parts carefully to avoid breakage or injury
- Refer to your user manual for model-specific instructions
Why the Auger Might Need Replacement
Several problems can affect the auger inside your ice dispenser. Common causes include:
- Normal wear from regular use
- Mineral buildup from hard water
- Physical damage from jammed ice
- Ice freezing around the auger, preventing movement
If any of these issues are present, replacing the auger can help your ice dispenser work properly again.
Signs Your Auger Needs Replacing
Watch for these signs that the auger may need to be replaced:
- Ice stays in the bin and does not dispense
- You hear the motor running, but no ice comes out
- Loud or unusual sounds when trying to dispense ice
- Ice is stuck in the chute
- The auger feels loose or out of place
These symptoms usually mean the auger is worn, broken, or blocked.
How to Replace the Auger in a Refrigerator Ice Bin
Here are the steps to remove the old auger and install a new one in your refrigerator’s ice bin. This process can help restore proper ice dispensing if the auger is worn or damaged.
Prepare the Refrigerator and Ice Bin
- Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet
- Remove the ice bin from the freezer compartment
- Discard any remaining ice in the bin
- Place the ice bin on a towel on a flat surface
Disassemble the Ice Bin
- Unscrew the 2 screws on the inside of the bin where the crusher assembly connects
- Lift the cover off the top of the ice bin
- Remove the screw on the bottom of the ice bin that holds the rod in place
- Pull the rod out from the back of the bin
- Remove the 2 screws at the bottom of the bin that hold the auger and crusher assembly
- Unscrew the 2 screws that secure the plastic crusher cover
Remove the Auger and Internal Parts
- Use pliers or a small screwdriver to remove the e-clip and washer on the front of the crusher cover
- Pull the crusher cover off
- Use a socket wrench or pliers to remove the nut on the front of the auger
- Carefully take off the crusher blades one at a time and lay them out in order
- Slide the auger out of the opening and off the metal plate
- Remove the drum and the drive blade from the auger
Install the New Auger
- Place the plastic cup on the back of the ice bin
- Slide the drive blade onto the new auger, then add the drum
- Insert the new auger into the bin and align the metal plate with its slot
- Secure the metal plate with the screw at the bottom of the bin
Reassemble the Crusher Assembly
- Reinstall the crusher blades in the reverse order they were removed
- Tighten the nut back onto the front of the auger
- Put the crusher cover back on and secure it with its screws
- Replace the washer and e-clip on the front of the crusher cover
Reassemble the Ice Bin
- Slide the rod back into the rear of the bin and screw it back into place
- Reattach the top cover of the bin and secure it with the 2 screws
Test the Ice Dispenser
- Fill the bin with the ice you set aside earlier
- Slide the bin back into its spot in the freezer
- Plug the refrigerator back in or turn the circuit breaker back on
- Test the ice dispenser to check if everything works properly
Also Read: Restore Ice Flow in Your Frigidaire Fridge with New Auger Motor
The Takeaway
If your Frigidaire refrigerator has been giving you trouble with ice dispensing, replacing the auger can be a smart fix. It’s a task you can handle on your own if you take your time and follow the steps carefully. Having the right tools ready and working in a clean space can make the job smoother.
Whether the auger was worn out, blocked, or broken, installing a new one can help get your ice maker working like it should. Once you’re done, remember to check the dispenser to make sure the repair did the trick. A working ice maker is just a few steps away when you know what to look for and how to put things back together.