How to tell if a Kenmore refrigerator compressor is bad?
If your Kenmore Elite side-by-side refrigerator model 10657716701 runs a lot but won’t cool, clicks repeatedly, or the compressor is unusually hot, the compressor or its start components may be failing. We use the troubleshooting steps in the owner's manual to rule out power, control, and airflow issues first.
Quick signs that point to a compressor problem
- Refrigerator and freezer are both warm even though the unit is running
- You hear repeated clicking (start attempt, then stop)
- The compressor is very hot to the touch after trying to run (use caution)
- The unit runs “all the time” but temperatures do not recover
- You do not hear the normal hum/vibration you used to hear
Rule out common non-compressor causes first
The manual notes that this model can run longer than older units, especially with warm room temps, frequent door openings, or after adding a large food load. It also notes basic checks like verifying power and controls are on. Use these steps before condemning the compressor:
- Confirm the outlet works and the cord is firmly plugged in
- Check the house breaker or fuse
- Make sure temperature controls are turned on and set correctly
- If it’s a new install or was unplugged, allow 24 hours to cool completely
- Listen for normal operating sounds (fans and refrigerant movement can be normal)
What a technician tests to confirm a bad compressor
A compressor diagnosis is usually confirmed with electrical and sealed-system checks:
| Test or observation | What it helps confirm |
|---|---|
| Amp draw at startup and while running | Hard-start, locked rotor, or overload trip |
| Continuity/resistance checks | Internal winding failure |
| Start device/relay inspection | Start component failure that mimics a bad compressor |
| Temperature difference across condenser/evaporator | Whether refrigerant is being pumped |
Parts that are often involved in “no cool” complaints
If testing shows the compressor itself is the issue, the replacement for this model is the refrigerator compressor W10139460. For sealed-system work, technicians may also replace related components such as a filter drier, depending on the repair approach.
Why it matters
Replacing a compressor is a major repair. Doing the quick power, control, and 24-hour cool-down checks first prevents unnecessary parts replacement and helps you pinpoint whether the issue is truly the compressor or a simpler airflow or electrical problem.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore 10657716701 refrigerators?
Common problems on the Kenmore Elite 10657716701 side-by-side refrigerator usually show up as no cooling or warm temperatures, ice maker not making ice, water dispenser issues, or heavy frost buildup. We start by checking power and control settings, then focus on the ice and water system and the defrost system using the owner's manual.
Most common symptoms (and what they usually point to)
- Refrigerator will not run at all: power supply issue, controls turned off, or a failed control component
- Runs constantly or seems to run too much: warm room, frequent door openings, door not sealing, or airflow blocked
- Ice maker not making ice: water supply problem, clogged filter, or a failed ice maker
- Water dispenser weak or not dispensing: clogged filter, air in the line after a filter change, or a water inlet valve issue
- Frost buildup or warm freezer: defrost problem (heater or defrost thermostat) or airflow restriction
Quick checks we recommend first
- Confirm the outlet works (plug in a lamp) and the refrigerator is plugged into a grounded 3-prong outlet.
- Make sure the controls are turned on and allow 24 hours after installation or major changes for temperatures to stabilize.
- Verify proper air circulation; do not block vents with food packages.
- If water or ice is acting up, flush the system after a filter change and discard the first glass of water.
- Check door closing and sealing; a door that does not fully close can cause long run times and temperature swings.
Common problem areas and related parts
| Problem area | What you may notice | Parts that often apply |
|---|---|---|
| Water filtration | Slow water, odd taste, low ice output | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1, refrigerator water filter cap (black) WP2260518B |
| Ice production | No ice, small cubes, intermittent harvest | Refrigerator ice maker 2198597 |
| Defrost system | Frost on back wall, warm temps, fan noise changes | Refrigerator heater WP2323198, refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WPW10225581 |
| Air movement | Warm spots, poor cooling recovery | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP2315549 |
Why it matters
Catching the symptom pattern early helps prevent food spoilage and reduces strain on the compressor. Many “not cooling” complaints are caused by airflow, door sealing, or ice and water system restrictions that are faster to correct than major sealed-system repairs.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore 10657716701 refrigerator?
A Kenmore Elite 10657716701 side-by-side refrigerator typically lasts 12 to 15 years. Keeping airflow clear, cleaning the condenser area, and maintaining the water and ice system helps the sealed refrigeration system and fans run efficiently for the long haul.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most refrigerators fall into the 12 to 15 year range; the biggest lifespan drivers are heat management, door sealing, and how hard the unit has to work to hold temperature.
- Keep proper air circulation around the cabinet (especially near vents and the base grille).
- Clean dust from the condenser area regularly.
- Keep doors closed as much as possible; avoid overloading door bins.
- Replace the water filter on schedule to protect the dispenser and ice maker.
- Fix small issues early (warm temps, unusual noises, slow ice production).
Maintenance checklist for longer life
Use these as your baseline routine for model 10657716701:
| Task | How often | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Clean condenser area and base grille | Every 6 to 12 months | Reduces heat load and compressor run time |
| Check door seal for gaps and tearing | Every 3 to 6 months | Prevents warm air leaks and frost buildup |
| Flush water system after filter change | After each filter replacement | Helps water taste and flow; reduces air in lines |
| Confirm freezer and fresh food temps | Monthly | Prevents overwork and food spoilage |
Water filter note (model-specific)
Your manual lists a replacement base grille water filter (part #9030). On this model, that corresponds to the replacement filter option we list as genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Why it matters
A refrigerator that runs hotter than it should (poor ventilation, dirty condenser, leaky gasket) cycles longer and stresses key components like the compressor, evaporator fan motor, and defrost system. Simple upkeep reduces wear and helps you reach the normal 12 to 15 year service life.
For model-specific care and operating guidance, follow the maintenance and use sections in the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What model is my Kenmore 10657716701 refrigerator?
Your refrigerator’s model is Kenmore ELITE 10657716701 when the model tag shows 10657716701. On this style of side-by-side refrigerator, the model and serial label is typically inside the fresh food section or freezer section on an interior wall, sometimes behind drawers or near the lower kickplate. For model-specific label locations and diagrams, use the owner's manual.
Where to look for the model number label
Check these common spots on Kenmore side-by-side refrigerators:
- Inside the refrigerator compartment on a side wall (often near the crisper area)
- Inside the freezer compartment on an interior side wall
- On the frame just inside the door opening (hinge-side area)
- Behind or near the lower toe grille (kickplate) area
- Behind the lower crisper drawer area (look on the wall or frame)
How to confirm you have the right model
Use the model number exactly as printed on the tag. A single missing digit can change the parts list.
| What to match | What it should look like | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 10657716701 | Ensures correct parts diagrams and fit |
| Brand line | Kenmore Elite | Helps confirm the product family |
| Serial number | Letters and numbers | Useful for age and production run |
Why it matters
Parts like a refrigerator water filter, ice maker, door gasket, or control board can vary by production run. Matching the full model number on the tag helps us point you to the correct replacement parts for your Kenmore Elite side-by-side refrigerator.
Quick tip when ordering parts
When you shop parts for this model, keep the model tag info handy and compare it to the part listing before ordering.
- Water filter options for this model include part IDs like genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1
- Ice production parts can include assemblies like refrigerator ice maker 2198597
- Water delivery issues can involve items like refrigerator water inlet valve WPW10159839
Last updated: February 2026
What is the cubic foot of my Kenmore refrigerator model 10657716701?
The total cubic-foot capacity for Kenmore Elite model 10657716701 is listed in the product specifications section of the 10657716701 owner's manual. That capacity number is the combined fresh-food and freezer volume used to compare refrigerator size.
Where to find the exact cubic feet in the manual
Look for headings such as Product data sheet, Specifications, or Capacity.
- Check the first pages and the back pages where spec tables are commonly printed
- Search the PDF for: capacity, cu. ft., cubic, volume, or product data sheet
- If the manual lists separate volumes, add refrigerator and freezer to get the total
- Use the model number 10657716701 on the rating label to confirm you are matching the correct unit
If you need a working estimate for planning
Most Kenmore Elite side-by-side refrigerators in this design class are typically about 21 to 26 cu. ft. total, depending on ice maker, dispenser, and interior layout.
| What you are doing | What to use | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Comparing replacement size | Total cu. ft. | Standard sizing metric |
| Planning freezer storage | Freezer cu. ft. | Determines usable frozen space |
| Power outage planning | Freezer cu. ft. | Dry ice guidance is based on freezer volume |
Why it matters
Cubic feet helps you compare overall refrigerator size, but day-to-day usable space depends on shelving, door bins, and whether an ice maker is installed. If you are also replacing the filter, match by model and filter type, such as the refrigerator water filter EDR3RXD1.
Last updated: February 2026





