Kenmore · Refrigerator
Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code 32
Harvest thermistor out of calibrated range
What this error means
Code 32 means the harvest thermistor reading during the eject phase was outside the expected resistance band. The module uses this sensor to confirm the mold released ice before returning to freeze.
How 32 is detected
When 32 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 32 calls are resolved without parts: run service test 58 and record thermistor values during freeze and harvest. 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 32 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
- Drifted harvest thermistor reading high or low vs calibration
- Wire fracture in the thermistor harness at the door hinge
- Ice shield blocking the sensor from the mold surface
- Module EEPROM calibration lost after a power surge
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Run Service Test 58 and record thermistor values during freeze and harvest
- 2Inspect the harness where it exits the freezer door for wire chafing
- 3Compare live readings to the resistance table on the tech sheet
- 4Replace the ice maker if the harvest thermistor is out of spec at known temperatures
When to call a technician
If the sensor tests good in isolation, the receiver module may need recalibration or replacement.
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 32 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when 32 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 32; Kenmore uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting 32; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.