Kenmore Elite Service Manual

The Kenmore Elite Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for authorized service technicians to diagnose, repair, and maintain Kenmore Elite appliances. This manual covers safety procedures, technical specifications, disassembly/assembly instructions, troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams, and parts lists for various Kenmore Elite models including refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, and ranges. Below are key sections for safety, technical data, diagnostics, repair procedures, and parts information.

Safety Precautions

Essential safety guidelines for technicians before servicing any Kenmore Elite appliance.

Hazard	Precaution
Electrical Shock	Disconnect power before servicing. Use insulated tools.
Moving Parts	Ensure all moving parts are stopped and disconnected from power.
Sharp Edges	Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling panels or components.
Refrigerant	Follow EPA guidelines for handling and recovery. Use proper gauges.
Gas Appliances	Check for gas leaks with soap solution. Ensure proper ventilation.
Heavy Components	Use proper lifting techniques or assistance for heavy parts.
Chemical Exposure	Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling cleaning agents or lubricants.
High Temperatures	Allow heating elements or surfaces to cool before touching.
Battery Handling	Disconnect control board batteries before servicing electronic components.
Test Equipment	Use calibrated multimeters and gauges for accurate readings.

Model Identification

Locate model and serial numbers to ensure correct service procedures and parts.

1. Refrigerators: Model tag inside fresh food compartment or on side panel.
2. Washers/Dryers: Model tag on door frame or rear panel near power cord.
3. Dishwashers: Model tag on door edge or under the tub.
4. Ranges/Ovens: Model tag inside storage drawer or on back panel.

WARNING! Always verify model number before ordering parts. Incorrect parts may cause malfunction or safety hazards.

Technical Specifications

Detailed technical data for Kenmore Elite appliance categories.

• Refrigerators: Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz; Refrigerant Type: R-134a or R-600a; Defrost System: Adaptive or timed.
• Washers: Voltage: 120V AC; Water Pressure: 20-120 psi; Spin Speed: Up to 1300 RPM.
• Dryers: Voltage: 240V (electric) or 120V (gas); BTU Rating: 18,000-22,000 (gas models).
• Dishwashers: Voltage: 120V AC; Water Consumption: 2-6 gallons per cycle; Pump Motor: 1/2 HP.
• Ranges: Voltage: 240V (electric) or 120V (gas); Oven Capacity: 5.0-6.2 cu. ft.; Burner Output: 9,000-18,000 BTU.
• Common Components: Control Boards: Microprocessor-based; Sensors: Thermistor, pressure, moisture; Motors: 1/3 to 1/2 HP.

Diagnostic Mode & Error Codes

Accessing diagnostic modes and interpreting error codes for troubleshooting.

Entering Diagnostic Mode: Typically involves pressing specific button sequences (e.g., Cancel + Start + Power) or using service remote.

Common Error Codes: F1/E1: Temperature sensor failure; F2/E2: Defrost system error; F3/E3: Communication error with control board; F4/E4: Door switch malfunction; F5/E5: Motor control fault; F6/E6: Water supply issue; F7/E7: Drain problem; F8/E8: Overheating; F9/E9: Memory error; F0/E0: General system fault.

Clearing Codes: After repair, clear codes by unplugging unit for 1 minute or using reset sequence in diagnostic menu.

Disassembly Procedures

Step-by-step instructions for accessing internal components.

1. Unplug appliance and secure work area.
2. Remove external panels: Use appropriate screwdrivers (Torx, Phillips, hex).
3. Document screw locations and cable connections with photos or notes.
4. Disconnect wiring harnesses carefully by releasing locking tabs.
5. Remove components in reverse order of assembly (refer to exploded diagrams).

Tip: Organize screws and small parts in labeled containers to prevent loss.

Component Testing

Testing procedures for common components using multimeter.

Component	Test Procedure	Expected Values
Thermistor	Measure resistance at room temp (approx. 70°F/21°C)	10k ohms ±5% (varies with model)
Heating Element	Check continuity across terminals	10-50 ohms (no open circuit)
Door Switch	Test continuity when pressed/released	Closed when pressed, open when released
Water Valve	Check coil resistance	500-1500 ohms (varies by valve type)
Motor Windings	Measure resistance between terminals	1-30 ohms (balanced between phases)
Control Board Fuses	Check continuity	Continuity (0 ohms) if good

Note: Always disconnect power before testing. Refer to specific model wiring diagram for exact values.

Common Repairs

Frequently performed repairs with estimated times and required tools.

1. Refrigerator Not Cooling: Replace evaporator fan motor (30 min), clean condenser coils (15 min), test and replace start relay (20 min).
2. Washer Not Spinning: Replace drive belt (45 min), test and replace motor coupler (60 min), replace lid switch (20 min).
3. Dryer Not Heating: Replace heating element (40 min), test and replace thermal fuse (30 min), clean vent system (60 min).
4. Dishwasher Not Draining: Clean drain pump filter (20 min), replace drain pump (45 min), check drain hose for clogs (15 min).
5. Oven Not Heating: Replace bake/broil element (30 min each), test and replace igniter (gas) (45 min), calibrate temperature sensor (20 min).

WARNING! Use genuine Kenmore Elite parts for repairs. Aftermarket parts may void warranty and cause performance issues.

Wiring Diagrams

Reference wiring diagrams for electrical troubleshooting.

Diagrams include: Power supply circuits, control board connections, sensor networks, motor circuits, display/UI connections, safety interlock circuits.

Reading Diagrams: - Solid lines: Wire connections - Dashed lines: Mechanical linkages - Numbers: Wire gauge and color codes - Symbols: Standard electrical symbols (resistor, capacitor, switch, etc.)

Note: Always verify diagram matches model number. Diagrams are model-specific.

Parts Lists & Ordering

Exploded views with part numbers and ordering information.

• Refrigerator Parts: Door gaskets, ice maker assemblies, compressor, evaporator coils, temperature controls.
• Washer Parts: Tub bearings, suspension springs, water pumps, timers, control boards.
• Dryer Parts: Drum rollers, belts, heating elements, thermostats, blower wheels.
• Dishwasher Parts: Spray arms, door latches, float switches, diverter motors, racks.
• Range Parts: Burner grates, oven sensors, control knobs, igniters, door hinges.

Ordering: Use 10-digit part numbers from diagrams. Contact authorized parts distributor or Sears Parts Direct.

Reassembly & Testing

Proper reassembly and post-repair testing procedures.

1. Reinstall components in reverse order of removal.
2. Ensure all connections are secure and properly seated.
3. Replace all panels and fasteners.
4. Plug in appliance and restore power/water/gas connections.
5. Run diagnostic test cycle or normal operation cycle.
6. Verify proper operation and no error codes.
7. Test all functions: temperatures, cycles, timers, safety features.
8. Complete service documentation with repair details and parts used.

CAUTION! Do not power on appliance until fully reassembled. Test for leaks (water/gas) before finalizing repair.

Troubleshooting Flowcharts

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common symptoms.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Appliance not powering on	No power supply, tripped breaker, faulty power cord, control board failure	Check outlet, reset breaker, test power cord, replace control board if needed
Unusual noises	Worn bearings, loose components, foreign objects, unbalanced load	Inspect and replace worn parts, tighten fasteners, remove obstructions, balance load
Error codes displayed	Sensor failure, component malfunction, wiring issues	Enter diagnostic mode, test referenced components, check wiring harnesses
Inconsistent performance	Dirty filters, calibration needed, worn parts, software glitch	Clean filters, recalibrate sensors, replace worn components, reset control board
Leaks (water/gas)	Damaged seals, cracked hoses, loose connections, worn valves	Replace seals/hoses, tighten connections, test valves, pressure test system

Advanced Troubleshooting: For persistent issues, contact Kenmore Elite Technical Support with model number, serial number, and detailed symptom description.

Service Support: 1-800-469-4668; www.kenmore.com/service