Kenmore · Refrigerator
Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code 31
Harvest motor failed range check
What this error means
Code 31 means the harvest motor current or speed fell outside the calibrated range during the eject stroke. The module detected abnormal motor performance compared to factory limits.
How 31 is detected
Kenmore refrigerator models lock the door or lid before energizing fill, heat, or high-speed spin. 31 means the latch switch never sent a "locked" signal to the main control, or the lock motor did not complete its travel. On Kenmore 106.51133210, Kenmore 106.62562101, and similar variants, clothing caught in the gasket, a misaligned strike, or a failed latch assembly are the most common mechanical causes—not the board itself.
Inspect the door gasket perimeter and strike alignment before replacing the latch. Partial ice jam allowing only half rotation of the cam is reported frequently on this code. After correcting mechanical issues, clear all ice from the mold and ejector path before retesting. If the latch clicks but 31 persists, the door lock switch or wiring harness to the control board likely needs testing with a multimeter.
Do not force the door open during an active cycle; wait for the lock to release when the board de-energizes the lock motor—usually two to three minutes after canceling power on most Kenmore units.
Common causes
- Partial ice jam allowing only half rotation of the cam
- Worn motor brushes or gearbox slip
- Incorrect ice maker installed for the module firmware
- Loose motor connector intermittent during harvest
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Clear all ice from the mold and ejector path before retesting
- 2Reseat the motor plug at the ice maker head
- 3Run a forced harvest from diagnostics and count full cam rotation
- 4Replace the ice maker if the motor stutters or stops mid-harvest
When to call a technician
Module firmware mismatches require a matched ice maker part number—verify against the tech sheet before ordering.
Affected models
- Kenmore 106.51133210
- Kenmore 106.62562101
- Kenmore 106.74202410
Prevention & maintenance
- Wipe the door gasket weekly and avoid overloading items against the seal—31 often starts as a slow leak or latch misalignment.
- Record when 31 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 31; Kenmore uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting 31; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.