KitchenAid KSSC42MFS05 built-in refrigerator Parts

KitchenAid “Superba” is a product line, not one single refrigerator size; capacity depends on the exact model. For your KitchenAid built-in side-by-side refrigerator model KSSC42MFS05, most units in this 42-inch built-in class are typically around 20 to 25 cubic feet total capacity.

How to get the exact cubic feet for KSSC42MFS05

We recommend confirming capacity using the model’s rating label information (often inside the fresh food compartment) or the published spec sheet for KSSC42MFS05.

• Check the model and serial tag inside the refrigerator section
• Look for a “total capacity” or “cu. ft.” listing
• If you only find compartment volumes, add fresh food + freezer
• Compare your cabinet opening size (built-in 42-inch) to typical capacity ranges
• Use the model number KSSC42MFS05 when searching specs or ordering parts

Typical capacity ranges (why “Superba” varies)

Different KitchenAid Superba refrigerators include freestanding and built-in designs, and those vary widely in interior volume.

Refrigerator type	Typical total capacity	Notes
Built-in 42-inch side-by-side (like KSSC42MFS05)	20 to 25 cu. ft.	More insulation and built-in fit reduce interior volume vs. freestanding
Freestanding side-by-side	23 to 29 cu. ft.	Usually deeper cabinet, more interior space
Counter-depth freestanding	20 to 24 cu. ft.	Shallower depth, less interior space

Why it matters

Knowing the correct cubic feet helps when comparing replacement options, planning food storage, and troubleshooting cooling complaints (overloading a smaller-capacity built-in can restrict airflow and cause warm spots).

Parts that affect usable space and performance

If you are trying to restore storage space or performance (ice production, door sealing, airflow), these model-matched parts can help:

• Refrigerator door gasket 2188318A (helps prevent warm air leaks)
• Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP4389155 (keeps air moving through the compartments)
• Ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943 (restores ice production)

You can order replacement parts for KSSC42MFS05 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

For your KitchenAid built-in refrigerator model KSSC42MFS05, the model number is the full letter and number code on the appliance identification label. Read it exactly as printed (including any leading letters) because it determines the correct parts list, diagrams, and compatible replacements you can order from Sears PartsDirect.

Where to find the model number on a built-in KitchenAid refrigerator

On most KitchenAid built-in side-by-side refrigerators, the model and serial label is typically located in one of these spots:

• Inside the fresh food compartment on a side wall near the top
• On the ceiling of the fresh food compartment near the light housing
• Along the door frame (hinge side) when the door is open
• Behind the toe grille or lower front kickplate area (less common)

How to read the model number correctly

Use these tips so you do not end up with the wrong KitchenAid refrigerator parts:

• Copy the model number character-for-character (example: KSSC42MFS05)
• Watch for common mix-ups: 0 (zero) vs O (letter O), 1 vs I
• Include the full suffix (the last digits/letters) because it can change the parts used
• Use the model number (not the serial number) when searching parts

Why the exact model number matters

KitchenAid built-in refrigerators often have multiple revisions that look identical but use different components. The exact model number ensures you get the right fit for common repairs like:

• Ice maker issues (for example, ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943)
• Door not closing or air leaks (door gasket selection varies by door and revision)
• Cooling and airflow problems (fan parts and controls can differ)

Quick reference: model number vs serial number

Label item	What it tells us	When you use it
Model number	Design and parts compatibility	Ordering parts, looking up diagrams
Serial number	Production sequence/date info	Service history, warranty paperwork

Last updated: February 2026

To estimate the age of your KitchenAid built-in refrigerator model KSSC42MFS05, we use the serial number date code plus the year digits in the serial. On many units, the first three digits show the day of the year it was built, and the last two digits show the year.

How to decode the build date from the serial number

Use this quick checklist to pull a manufacture date from the serial number format commonly used on KitchenAid refrigerators:

• Find the serial number on the rating label inside the refrigerator compartment.
• Look at the total length of the serial number (9 digits vs. 10 digits).
• Identify the date code character:
  • 9-digit serial: the 2nd character is the date code.
  • 10-digit serial: the 3rd character is the date code.
• Use the day-of-year and year digits (when present):
  • First 3 digits = day of the year (001 to 365).
  • Last 2 digits = year (for example, 07 = 2007).

Example: turning “day-of-year” into a calendar date

If the first three digits are 032, that means the 32nd day of the year.

Day-of-year	Non-leap year date	What it tells you
001	Jan 1	Built on the first day of the year
032	Feb 1	Built on the 32nd day of the year
365	Dec 31	Built on the last day of the year

Why it matters

Knowing the manufacture date helps us match the right KitchenAid KSSC42MFS05 parts and troubleshoot age-related issues like cooling performance, ice maker failures, and defrost problems.

Parts that commonly come up when age-related issues start

If your refrigerator is older and you are chasing symptoms (warm temps, no ice, frost buildup), these model-compatible parts are common starting points:

• Ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943
• Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP4389155
• Refrigerator defrost heater WP2000631
• Refrigerator cold control thermostat WP1113466

If you are ready to order, we list replacement parts for KSSC42MFS05 on this model page, and you can also search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

KitchenAid refrigerators typically last 14 to 17 years on average. For a built-in model like KitchenAid KSSC42MFS05, lifespan depends most on condenser airflow, door seal condition, and steady temperatures; good maintenance helps you reach the upper end of that range.

Typical lifespan and what affects it

A refrigerator’s life is mostly determined by how hard the sealed system and fans have to work.

• Dirty condenser coils raise compressor run time and heat
• Worn door gaskets let warm air in and create frost and long run cycles
• A weak evaporator fan reduces cooling and can cause warm spots
• Ice maker and water system leaks can create corrosion and icing issues
• Frequent power interruptions can stress controls and motors

Quick maintenance checklist (high impact)

These steps help a built-in side-by-side run efficiently and reduce wear.

• Vacuum condenser area regularly (more often with pets)
• Keep doors closing tightly; clean and inspect gasket surfaces
• Avoid overpacking; keep air vents clear in both compartments
• Set stable temps (typical targets: 37°F fresh food, 0°F freezer)
• Address unusual noises early (fan rubbing, clicking, buzzing)

Parts that commonly relate to “end-of-life” symptoms

If your KSSC42MFS05 is warming, noisy, or frosting up, these model-matched parts are often involved.

Symptom	Common area	Example part for this model
Warm fridge/freezer, poor airflow	Evaporator fan system	Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP4389155
Door not sealing, frost buildup	Door seal	Refrigerator door gasket 2188318A or refrigerator door gasket 2188320A
No ice or intermittent ice	Ice maker system	Ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943

Why it matters

Knowing the typical 14 to 17 year lifespan helps you decide whether to repair or refresh key components. Replacing a failed fan motor or door gasket can restore performance and reduce compressor strain, which is the biggest factor in long-term reliability.

For model-specific replacement parts and diagrams, use the parts list for KSSC42MFS05 on this page, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026

For KitchenAid refrigerators like model KSSC42MFS05, the most common service issues are ice maker problems and cooling/temperature complaints caused by airflow or defrost trouble. We typically see symptoms tied to the ice maker assembly, evaporator fan operation, or frost buildup that restricts circulation.

Most common symptoms customers notice

• Ice maker stops making ice, makes small cubes, or overflows
• Refrigerator section warms up while freezer seems OK
• Loud humming, buzzing, or rattling from the freezer area
• Frost buildup on the back wall of the freezer
• Water leaking inside the fresh food section or under the unit

What usually causes those problems

Many “common problems” trace back to a few systems: ice production, airflow, and defrost.

Problem area	What you notice	Parts that often relate on KSSC42MFS05
Ice maker system	No ice, slow ice, odd cube size	Ice maker assembly - refrigerator ice maker by whirlpool 4317943, refrigerator ice maker thermostat WP627985
Air circulation (evaporator fan)	Warm fridge, noisy freezer, uneven temps	Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WP4389155, refrigerator evaporator fan blade WP2169142
Defrost system	Frost blanket on evaporator, weak cooling	Refrigerator defrost bi-metal WP4387499, refrigerator heater WP2000631, defrost timer WP2183400

Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts

1. Confirm temperatures: freezer near 0°F; refrigerator near 37°F.
2. Listen for the evaporator fan: it should run when the compressor is running (door switch closed).
3. Look for frost patterns: heavy frost on the freezer back panel points to a defrost issue.
4. Check door sealing: gaps or a torn gasket can cause moisture, frost, and temperature swings.
5. Verify ice maker basics: shutoff arm position, bin alignment, and no ice jams.

Why it matters

On a built-in side-by-side like the KitchenAid KSSC42MFS05, small airflow or defrost problems quickly turn into bigger cooling complaints, and ice maker issues often get blamed on “no water” when the real cause is temperature stability.

Parts and DIY help

• If you are troubleshooting fan noise or warm temperatures, use our guide: how to fix your evaporator cooling fan.
• To order model-matched replacement parts, use the parts list for KSSC42MFS05 on this page, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.

Last updated: February 2026