How to replace an ice maker in a side by side refrigerator?
To replace the ice maker in your Kenmore 25357389602 side-by-side refrigerator, we shut off power and the water supply, remove the ice bin, swap the ice maker assembly, then restore water and power and allow up to 24 hours for ice production to resume. See the owner's manual for model-specific access and fastener locations.
Before you start (safety and prep)
- Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off the breaker).
- Turn the water shutoff valve to the OFF position.
- Remove the ice container by lifting up and out; do not use the ice chute as a handle.
- Keep hands clear of the ice chute area; edges can be sharp.
- Have a towel ready for small water drips.
Replacement steps (typical side-by-side process)
- Remove the ice container from the top of the freezer compartment.
- Remove the ice maker mounting screws and gently pull the ice maker forward.
- Disconnect the ice maker wiring harness plug.
- Install the new ice maker: reconnect the harness, position the unit, and reinstall mounting screws.
- Reinstall the ice container; if it will not seat, realign the auger by turning it in 90-degree increments until it fits.
- Turn the water back ON and restore power.
Water line and fill checks (important after replacement)
If the ice maker is not filling, confirm these basics:
- Household water pressure is in the 30 to 100 psi range.
- The shutoff valve is fully open.
- The supply line was flushed until water ran clear before reconnecting.
- The compression nut and ferrule are seated correctly; tighten snugly, then about another half turn (do not overtighten).
Quick symptom-to-check table
| Symptom after install | Most common check | Related part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| No water entering ice maker | Water supply, pressure, inlet valve | Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly 242252702 |
| Ice clumps or dispenser jams | Empty and clean bin; loosen cubes | Refrigerator ice container 241860803 |
| Slow or no ice production | Allow cooling time; verify ice maker ON | (Check wire signal arm position) |
Why it matters
A correct install prevents leaks at the inlet connection, avoids dispenser jams from misaligned auger parts, and helps the ice maker reach normal output (typically 4 to 6 pounds per day once temperatures stabilize).
Last updated: February 2026
What is code 5Y EF on Kenmore refrigerator?
On Kenmore refrigerator model 25357389602, the 5Y EF (or SY EF) code points to a problem in the evaporator fan circuit. In most cases, the evaporator fan is not running correctly, so cold air is not being moved through the freezer and fresh food sections; this can lead to warm temperatures and poor cooling.
What to check first (quick, safe steps)
- Power-cycle the refrigerator: unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in.
- Make sure the freezer vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Listen for the evaporator fan: it normally runs when the compressor is running.
- Check for heavy frost on the freezer back wall (a defrost problem can stop airflow).
- Confirm both doors close fully and seal tightly.
Common causes and the most likely fixes
| Symptom you notice | Most likely cause | What usually fixes it |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer cold but fresh food warm | Airflow restriction or fan not moving air | Clear vents; inspect fan area for ice buildup |
| Loud buzzing, grinding, or squealing | Fan blade hitting ice or worn fan motor | Defrost ice; replace damaged fan blade |
| Frost buildup on freezer back panel | Defrost system issue | Check defrost components; clear ice so airflow returns |
| Door not sealing well | Warm air leaks in, causing frost and airflow issues | Clean/reshape gasket; replace if torn |
If you find a cracked or warped fan blade, replacing the Refrigerator evaporator fan blade 5308000010 is a common repair that restores proper airflow.
Why it matters
The evaporator fan is what distributes cold air. When the fan circuit has a fault, temperatures drift, the refrigerator can run longer than normal, and frost can build up, which makes cooling problems worse.
Where to find model-specific guidance
We recommend using the troubleshooting and component location details in the Owner's manual for model 25357389602 before disassembly.
Last updated: February 2026
Where is the model number on a Kenmore side by side refrigerator?
On Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator model 25357389602, the model number is printed on the serial plate located inside the refrigerator (fresh food) compartment. Open the refrigerator door and look along the interior walls near the top or side areas for the label.
How to find the serial plate quickly
- Open the refrigerator (not freezer) door
- Look inside the fresh food compartment first
- Check the upper side walls and near the top front frame
- Use a flashlight; the label can be easy to miss
- Write down both the model number and serial number for parts lookup
What the label typically shows
The serial plate usually includes both identifiers you need for ordering parts and checking specifications.
| Item on label | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Model number | Matching the correct parts list and diagrams |
| Serial number | Identifying production details for your unit |
| Purchase date (sometimes recorded by owner) | Maintenance and service history |
Cleaning tip (so the numbers stay readable)
We recommend wiping the serial plate with soap and water only. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives that can smear or remove the printed characters.
Why it matters
Using the exact model number (for example, 25357389602) prevents ordering the wrong Kenmore refrigerator parts such as a water filter, door gasket, or water inlet valve. For model-specific locations and diagrams, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
Why is my Kenmore side by side icemaker not working?
If the ice maker in your Kenmore 25357389602 side-by-side refrigerator isn’t making ice, the most common causes are the ice maker being switched OFF (wire signal arm up), the household water supply being closed or restricted, or the freezer not being cold enough. Use the troubleshooting steps in the owner's manual to pinpoint the issue.
Quick checks we recommend first
- Make sure the ice maker wire signal arm is down (ON).
- Confirm the household water shutoff valve is fully open.
- Check that the freezer door closes completely and seals well.
- Verify the freezer temperature is cold enough for ice production.
- Dispense water at the door (if equipped); slow or no water points to a supply or filter restriction.
What to do based on what you find
| What you notice | Most likely cause | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| No ice at all | Ice maker turned OFF | Put the wire signal arm down (ON) |
| Water dispenser is slow | Clogged filter or restricted supply | Replace the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WFCB and flush water for 3 minutes |
| Dispenser works but still no ice | Freezer too warm | Adjust freezer colder; allow 24 hours to stabilize |
| Water supply is weak at valve | Saddle valve clogged/restricted | Clean or replace the shutoff valve (avoid self-piercing saddle valves) |
Why the water filter and valve matter
Your ice maker needs steady water pressure and flow. The manual notes that a restricted shutoff valve or a clogged ice and water filter can stop ice production or reduce output. After replacing the filter, we flush the system for about 3 minutes to purge air and condition the water line.
Parts that commonly fix “no ice” symptoms
- Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter WFCB (restricted flow, slow dispensing)
- Refrigerator water inlet valve assembly 242252702 (no fill, weak fill)
- Refrigerator ice maker fill cup 241798231 (fill issues related to the ice maker fill path)
Last updated: February 2026





