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How to Fix a Samsung Fridge Ice Maker That Passes Test Mode but Doesn’t Make Ice Normally

Issue:
Your Samsung refrigerator's ice maker passes the test mode and makes ice during testing but fails to produce ice in daily use. The ice maker has no ON/OFF flag arm.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis & Repair

✅ Step 1: Check the LED Sensor

  1. Remove the ice bin.

  2. Using your phone’s camera, look toward the auger motor wall behind the ice bin.

  3. Locate the LED sensor (part of the auger motor assembly).

  4. While pointing your phone camera at it, look for a red light from the LED.

    • If you see the red light — the sensor is working.

    • If no light is visible — the LED or its control board is likely faulty and needs repair or replacement.

🧰 Step 2: Remove and Inspect the Auger Assembly

  1. Remove the auger assembly from the freezer cabinet.

  2. Unscrew the cover that protects the LED components.

  3. Carefully disconnect or release the wires inside the auger assembly to fully access the LED board.

🔧 Step 3: Repair the LED Assembly (if needed)

  1. Open the plastic housing of the LED sensor carefully.

  2. Inside, you’ll find a small PCB (printed circuit board).

  3. Inspect it for signs of water damage or corrosion.Refrigerator repair chicago lets fix appliance repair

  4. Locate the 220 Ohm 1W SMD resistor on the PCB.Samsung refrigerator ice maker repair chicago

  5. Test the resistor with a multimeter:

    • If it's faulty, replace it.

    • You can use a standard (non-SMD) 220 Ohm 1W resistor as a substitute.appliance repair chicgo and suburbs

  6. Check the continuity of PCB traces from the wires to the LED and resistor.

    • Repair any broken or corroded traces.

  7. If traces are severely damaged, the best fix is to solder the resistor directly to the LED terminals.

🔄 Step 4: Reassemble and Test

  1. Put the LED board and auger assembly back together.Oven dryer washer fridge repair chicago

  2. Reinstall the assembly in the freezer.Refrigerator repair chicago

  3. Use your phone camera again to verify that the LED is now glowing red.

  4. If the LED is working, your ice maker should resume normal operation.

Notes:

  • The LED sensor helps detect the presence of the ice bin and is critical for triggering the ice production cycle.

  • Even if the ice maker passes test mode, a malfunctioning LED assembly will prevent normal operation.

  • Typical repair time: 45-60 minutes with basic tools and a soldering iron.