If your Frigidaire refrigerator stops dispensing ice, the problem might be with the auger motor. This small motor turns the auger inside the ice bin, helping move ice from the bucket to the dispenser chute. When the motor fails, the auger can no longer turn, and ice remains stuck in the bin. Replacing the auger motor can restore your dispenser’s function and keep your refrigerator working as it should.
Follow the guide below to replace the auger motor safely and correctly.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you begin, collect the tools and supplies you need for the repair:
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Mallet
- Insulated work gloves
- Clean towels to catch water
- Safety glasses or a dust mask if needed
Safety Guidelines Before You Start
Always follow basic safety precautions when working on appliances. These steps help protect both you and your appliance:
- Turn off and unplug the refrigerator, or switch off the power at the circuit breaker.
- Shut off the water supply connected to the refrigerator.
- If the fridge was recently running, give it time to cool down before starting work.
- Place towels under the ice bin or anywhere moisture might drip during the process.
- Keep your workspace clean and free from clutter. Children and pets should stay away from the area.
- Use gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges inside the appliance.
- Avoid touching any exposed wires with your bare hands. Use insulated tools if necessary.
- Work in a space with good lighting so you can see all the parts clearly.
- Use safety glasses or a dust mask if there is a lot of dust or debris that might cause irritation.
Refer to your refrigerator’s user manual for any specific warnings or part-handling tips related to your model.
Signs You May Need to Replace the Auger Motor
A damaged or worn-out auger motor can lead to several issues with ice dispensing. Common signs that the motor needs replacement include:
- The dispenser does not release ice even when the bin is full
- You hear the motor trying to run, but the ice does not move
- The auger blade does not turn when the dispenser is activated
- Ice clogs the chute or gets stuck inside the bin
- A loud grinding or clicking noise comes from the freezer
- The auger motor fails a continuity test during troubleshooting
How to Replace the Auger Motor in Your Frigidaire Refrigerator
Follow these steps to replace the auger motor and get your ice dispenser working properly again.
Access the Auger Motor
- Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it from the power source
- Open the freezer door
- Slide out the ice bin and set it aside
- Locate the two 1/4-inch screws at the bottom of the auger housing
- Remove the screws using a nut driver or compatible tool
- Lift the auger housing off the rails
- Place the auger housing on a towel-covered flat surface
Remove the Old Auger Motor
- Tap the auger drive blade gently with a mallet to remove it
- Locate the four Phillips head screws securing the auger motor
- Remove the four screws with a Phillips screwdriver
- Disconnect the wiring harness from the auger motor
- Take the old auger motor out of the housing
Install the New Auger Motor
- Insert the new auger motor into the housing
- Reconnect the wiring harness to the new motor
- Secure the motor with the four Phillips screws
Reassemble the Unit
- Reattach the auger drive blade by tapping it back into place with a mallet
- Hang the auger housing back onto the freezer rails
- Reinstall the two 1/4-inch screws to hold the housing in place
- Slide the ice bin back into position
- Close the freezer door
- Plug the refrigerator back in or switch the circuit breaker back on
Next Steps
Once you’ve followed the steps and put in the new motor, your dispenser should be back to pushing out ice like it used to. This type of repair doesn’t take much time, but it makes a big difference in how your freezer works day to day. If your ice stopped moving even though everything else seemed fine, a new auger motor may have been the missing piece. Keep your tools ready, follow safety practices, and you’ll have your ice back without needing to call for service.