Kenmore · Refrigerator
Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code 27
Ice maker motor current too high
What this error means
Code 27 means the ice maker motor is drawing more current than expected—usually from a mechanical bind or failing motor bearings inside the gearbox.
How 27 is detected
When 27 appears on a Kenmore refrigerator, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Kenmore 106.51133210, Kenmore 106.62562101, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most 27 calls are resolved without parts: empty the bin and clear any cube fragments under the rake. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If 27 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Ice cube stuck under the ejector arm increasing load torque
- Worn gearbox bearings creating drag
- Motor armature short increasing amp draw
- Module incorrectly calibrated for a replaced ice maker
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Empty the bin and clear any cube fragments under the rake
- 2Manually turn the cam—grinding or hard spots indicate gearbox damage
- 3Run one harvest cycle from diagnostics and listen for motor strain
- 4Replace the ice maker assembly if current stays high with a clear mold
When to call a technician
Motor overcurrent can damage the module—stop using the ice maker until the gearbox is replaced.
Affected models
- Kenmore 106.51133210
- Kenmore 106.62562101
- Kenmore 106.74202410
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use refrigerators to prevent 27 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when 27 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Kenmore refrigerator—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for 27; Kenmore uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting 27; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.