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Caloric Refrigerator control panel not working

Having a refrigerator control panel not working is usually a problem with the user control and display board. Start by pressing the buttons: if you’re seeing fridge buttons not working or the refrigerator display not working, with some buttons responding while others do not or the display blank despite power, the user control and display board or the display board itself is likely at fault. If the whole dispenser system is dead, the dispenser control board could be to blame, but if only one dispenser function fails, test that component before replacing the board. Also check for loose or damaged wire harness connectors between the panel and control board and inspect the dispenser front panel assembly on models where controls are built into the dispenser. Don’t forget basic refrigerator control board troubleshooting: confirm the fridge is plugged into a live outlet, check fuses or the circuit breaker, and avoid GFI outlets that can trip. If you need a replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact control board, display assembly, wire harness, or dispenser front panel for your refrigerator.

01 - Caloric Refrigerator User Control and Display Board

To determine if the user control and display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the user control and display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display is not working, check the power to the user control and display board. If the user control and display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
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02 - Caloric Refrigerator Dispenser Control Board

The dispenser control board governs most of the functions of the dispenser system. If only one dispenser part is not working, it is probable that an individual part has failed. In this case, test each of the dispenser components before testing the control board. If the entire dispenser system is not working, the control board is more likely to be at fault.
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03 - Caloric Refrigerator Display Board

To determine if the display board is defective, try pressing the buttons on the control panel. If some of the buttons work, but others do not work, the display board might need to be replaced. Additionally, if the display board is not working, check for power to the display board. If the display board has power, but it isn’t working, replace it.
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04 - Disconnected or Damaged Wire Harness

The wires from the control panel to the control board may be loose or have become disconnected. Make sure the wire harness connectors are tight. A damaged wire harness will need to be replaced.
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05 - Caloric Refrigerator Dispenser Front Panel

On some refrigerator models the user controls are part of the ice and water dispensers front panel. If none of the control panel buttons are working, it's probable the main control board is malfunctioning. However, if some of the buttons on the control panel are still functioning, it's more likely the unit's user control and display is faulty. If this component is sold as part of the dispenser front panel, the entire assembly can be replaced.
Highly Likely

06 - Incoming Power Problem

Ensure power cord is fully inserted into a regular electrical outlet and the outlet is supplying power. Check fuses or circuit breaker if needed. It is best to keep the refrigerator on it's own dedicated circuit and not to use a ground fault receptacle which can interrupt power to large appliances.
Highly Likely

07 - Caloric Refrigerator Main Control Board

The main control board might be defective. However, the control board is rarely at fault for this problem. Before replacing the control board, first check all of the dispenser components. If none of the dispenser components are defective, consider replacing the main control board.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Some buttons on my refrigerator control panel work but others don't. Is the control board bad?
My fridge dispenser is not working. How do I know if I need the dispenser control board or another part?
How do I check for incoming power to the control or display board?
Can I replace the dispenser front panel or user control and display board myself?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?