A refrigerator door that will not close all the way can cause more than a minor inconvenience. Cold air escapes, warm air enters, and food can spoil faster while the appliance works harder and consumes more electricity.
One frequent cause is a worn or damaged door closure mechanism. This component pulls the door shut and keeps it sealed. When it no longer works properly, the door may stay slightly open, causing temperature fluctuations and inefficient cooling.
Replacing a faulty door closure is a straightforward, low-cost repair. With the right tools and a replacement part, you can have your LG or Kenmore refrigerator closing properly again in under an hour.
What You Need
Before starting the repair, gather the tools and parts so the job goes smoothly from beginning to end.
- Replacement Door Closure (Part # MJB62830601) – Made for LG and Kenmore refrigerators. Check your model’s manual to confirm the correct part number.
- Phillips Head Screwdriver – A medium-size screwdriver is suitable for removing the mounting screw.
- Optional Safety Gear – Gloves and safety glasses are recommended for extra protection.
Having these ready before you begin helps the repair go faster.
Safety Precautions
Appliance repair requires caution. Take the following steps before replacing the door closure:
- Unplug the Refrigerator – Disconnect the power cord or turn off the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock.
- Work Carefully – Be mindful of electrical and mechanical components when using tools.
- Prevent Accidents – Since the door will be open during the repair, watch for tripping hazards and mark the area to keep others away.
These steps help protect you and the appliance during the repair process.
How to Replace a Door Closure on LG/Kenmore Refrigerators
Follow these steps to remove the old door closure, install the new one, and complete the repair process.
Removing the Old Door Closure
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet or turn off the breaker.
- Open the right refrigerator door fully to access the closure mechanism at the bottom near the lower hinge.
- Locate the plastic door closure bracket and closure pin.
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw securing the bracket and pin.
- Carefully pull the door closure from the bracket, wiggling it free from the hinge pin if necessary.
- Inspect the hinge and surrounding area for cracks, loose parts, or damage.
- Clean away any dust or debris from the hinge, pin, and closure bracket.
- Discard the broken closure, keeping any reusable hardware.
Installing the New Door Closure
- Align the new door closure with the hinge pin and mounting bracket in the same position as the old one.
- The curved part of the closure should fit over the hinge pin.
- Insert the closure into the mounting bracket until it sits flush.
- Reinsert and tighten the Phillips screw to secure the closure, avoiding overtightening.
- Check that the closure moves freely on the hinge pin without friction.
- Open and close the refrigerator door several times to confirm smooth operation and correct alignment.
Completing the Repair
- Verify that the door latches properly when closed.
- Plug the refrigerator back in or turn the breaker on.
- Allow the refrigerator to run for 15–20 minutes to confirm proper cooling.
- Inspect the door gasket seal to confirm it is intact around the entire door.
- Wipe down the refrigerator surfaces to remove any dirt or debris from the repair.
- Confirm the door opens and closes smoothly without issues.
- Dispose of the old door closure properly.
- Return all tools and spare parts to their storage locations.
Tips to Keep a Refrigerator Door Closure in Good Condition
After installing a new closure, these practices can help it last longer:
- Keep the door hinges lubricated with a light food-safe lubricant
- Avoid overloading the door shelves with heavy items
- Clean the door gasket regularly to prevent dirt buildup
- Open the door gently instead of yanking it
- Check the door alignment during seasonal deep cleans
- Wipe away any spills or sticky residue near the hinge area
- Make sure children do not hang or lean on the refrigerator door
What’s Next?
A working refrigerator door closure makes a big difference in how well your appliance runs. With just a few basic tools and the right part, fixing it yourself can be quick and straightforward. Once it is in place, you save energy, protect your food, and keep your fridge running efficiently. Taking a little time to care for the hinges, keep the gasket clean, and avoid heavy loads on the door will help your new closure last. A smooth, tight seal means less wasted cold air and more reliable cooling for years to come.