How to Replace the Front Control Panel on a Samsung Refrigerator

How to Replace the Front Control Panel on a Samsung Refrigerator

Many Samsung refrigerators come with an ice dispenser on the door, with a control panel above it for changing temperature and ice cube size. On some Samsung models, the control panel also lets you know when something has gone wrong, for example when the doors have not closed properly. If moisture finds its way into the control panel, it may give an incorrect temperature reading or no reading at all. If this happens, or if your refrigerator has stopped dispensing ice, you may need to remove the Samsung refrigerator control panel to figure out what is wrong. Fortunately, this is a straightforward process that does not involve taking off the entire refrigerator door.

Unplug the Power Cord

1. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to cut off power to the refrigerator.

Remove the Control Panel

2. Some Samsung refrigerators have control panels with screws and clips, some only have screws, and others only have clips. Bend down and look up into the ice-chute area. If you see screws, remove them with a screwdriver. If you see clips holding the control panel in place (you may have to carefully pry the panel off a little to check), use a putty knife to release them. Pull the panel away enough to display the wiring harness on the back of it. On some models, the control panel is glued to the door, which makes it harder to remove. Use a hairdryer on the edges of the panel for a few minutes to warm the glue. Hold the control panel in one hand and pull the wiring harness off with the other. This is a basic pin harness that should easily pull off the back of the panel.

Replace the Control Panel

3. After you have inspected the parts behind the control panel and replaced any defective parts, replace the Samsung refrigerator control panel by placing it in its original position on the door. Insert the clips and/or screws and use a screwdriver to secure them. Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet and check that the control panel is working as it should.

Tip

Before removing the control panel, try a few troubleshooting methods. If the control panel is not lit up, unplug the refrigerator for 30 seconds to reset it. If the control panel does not light up after plugging the refrigerator back in, there may be a connection problem. If the control panel buttons are not working, it may be in Child Lock mode. Press and hold the Child Lock button for three seconds, until you hear a chime. If your model does not have a Child Lock button, press the Fridge Temperature Key and the Power Fridge Key or Vacation Key at the same time for three seconds.

Warning

If your Samsung refrigerator is still under warranty, do not attempt to remove the front control panel, as this may void that warranty. Samsung provides a 12-month limited warranty on all parts and labor for refrigerators purchased in the United States.

Removing the display panel with the power on might result in accidental shock or damage to the display panel.

Only a qualified, authorized service technician should service your Samsung refrigerator.