Follow these steps to fix a freezer door that no longer closes as it should. This simple repair can help restore your GE refrigerator’s proper function and keep your food cold.
Why the Cam Closure Matters
The cam closure is a small plastic piece located at the bottom of the freezer door. It works together with the lower hinge and the gasket to help the door seal shut. This part has two pins that fit into the bottom hinge. As the door swings shut, the pins engage with the hinge to pull the door tightly closed.
When the cam wears out, the door can become misaligned or may not seal properly. This lets warm air enter the freezer, which makes the appliance run longer to keep things cold. Over time, this can lead to poor performance and extra strain on other components.
Signs the Cam Closure Needs Replacing
You may need to replace the cam closure when you notice the following:
- The freezer door pops open after closing
- The door feels loose or does not stay in place
- Cold air seems to leak out of the freezer
- The gasket does not press firmly against the cabinet
- You hear scraping or clicking sounds as you open or shut the door
A worn cam closure can be replaced quickly using basic tools. Fixing it helps your freezer maintain its cold temperature and lowers energy use.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Before starting the repair, gather the tools and parts you need:
- 5/16 inch nut driver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Small flat-blade screwdriver
- T20 Torx screwdriver
- Duct tape
- New GE freezer door cam closure (check compatibility with your refrigerator model)
Unplug the refrigerator from the wall or switch off the power at the circuit breaker. Turn off the water supply line if needed, and keep a towel nearby in case water drips from any connections.
Safety Tips Before Starting
Take a few minutes to prepare your workspace and reduce any risk while doing the repair. Here are some helpful safety tips:
- Always unplug the appliance or turn off the circuit breaker before starting
- Shut off the water supply at the source
- Allow the freezer to cool down before touching interior parts
- Take your time and avoid rushing through each step
- Make sure your work area is well-lit and dry
- Keep pets and children out of the workspace
- Avoid touching wires or terminals with bare hands
- Use tools with non-conductive handles when working near electrical parts
- Keep the space free of clutter to avoid trips or slips
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or debris
- Use safety glasses if working in tight areas with dust or loose particles
- Handle all parts gently to avoid breaking plastic tabs or connectors
- Check your user manual for specific instructions for your refrigerator model
How to Replace the Freezer Door Cam Closure on a GE Refrigerator
Here are the steps to replace the cam closure so your freezer door can open and close properly again.
Remove the Toe Grill
- Locate the toe grill at the bottom of the freezer door
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the grill
- Pull the plastic grill straight out and set it aside
Disconnect the Water Line and Wiring
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the wiring harness plug
- Place a towel under the connection to catch any water
- Press the locking collar on the water line and pull the tubing off
Tape the Freezer Door and Remove Top Hinge
- Close both the refrigerator and freezer doors
- Apply strips of duct tape to hold the freezer door in place
- Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws from the top hinge
- Lift off the hinge and set it aside
Remove the Freezer Door
- Carefully peel back the duct tape while supporting the door
- Open the freezer door slightly
- Lift the door straight up to remove it from the bottom hinge
- Set the door aside on a flat surface
Replace the Cam Closure
- Use a T20 Torx bit to remove the two screws securing the old cam closure
- Take out the worn cam and discard it
- Line up the new cam and insert the pins into the hinge holes
- Tighten the two Torx screws to secure the new cam
Reinstall the Freezer Door
- Lift the freezer door and guide the water tubing and wiring harness through the bottom hinge
- Reapply duct tape to support the door during reinstallation
- Lower the door onto the bottom hinge pin
- Reattach the top hinge and install the two 5/16-inch screws loosely
Reconnect the Water Line and Wiring
- Open the doors
- Push the water line into the connector until it clicks
- Plug the wiring harness back into place
Reinstall the Toe Grill
- Slide the toe grill into its position under the freezer
- Tuck the water line and wiring inside the grill area
- Insert and tighten the two Phillips screws
Final Steps
- Remove all duct tape from the door
- Plug the refrigerator back in
- Turn on the water supply
- Check for leaks at the water connection
- Open and close the freezer door to test movement and sealing
The Bottom Line
A loose or leaky freezer door might seem like a small problem, but it can affect your GE refrigerator’s performance more than you might think. Fixing the cam closure is a simple way to help your appliance seal better and stay efficient. It only takes a few tools, some patience, and a bit of time to get things working right again. If your door feels off or you notice cold air leaking out, replacing the cam closure can make a big difference. Once it’s installed, your freezer should close properly, keep your food cold, and use less energy in the long run.