Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code C (Freezer Display) — Freezer Thermistor Failure
What this means
When the letter C appears on the freezer side of a Whirlpool refrigerator display, it indicates the freezer compartment thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed. This sensor monitors the freezer temperature and communicates with the main control board to maintain the correct temperature. A failed freezer thermistor can cause the freezer to run too cold, not cold enough, or run the compressor continuously.
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsUnplug the refrigerator
Disconnect the refrigerator from power and wait 5 minutes before beginning work. Move frozen food to a cooler to keep it safe during the repair.
Frozen food will stay safe in a well-packed cooler with ice for several hours — you have plenty of time for this repair.
Locate the freezer thermistor
Open the freezer door and look for a small cover on the rear or side wall of the freezer compartment. The thermistor is behind this cover, usually clipped to the wall with a small mounting bracket and connected by a two-wire harness.
Remove the upper freezer shelf and any items near the thermistor cover to give yourself room to work.
Test the freezer thermistor
Disconnect the thermistor wire harness. Using a multimeter set to ohms, test the resistance across the two terminals. At 0°F (normal freezer temp), the thermistor should read approximately 88,000 ohms (88K). At room temperature (77°F), it should read approximately 16,600 ohms.
If you removed the sensor and let it warm to room temperature, test it at that temperature for a clearer reading.
Replace the freezer thermistor
If the reading is out of range, remove the old thermistor from its mounting clip and disconnect the wire harness. Install the new thermistor, secure it in the clip, reconnect the harness, and replace the cover. Plug the refrigerator back in.
The thermistor kit (W10316760) typically includes both the refrigerator and freezer sensors — you may want to replace both while you have access.
When to call a professional
If both thermistors have been replaced and the error persists, the main control board may not be reading the sensor correctly and should be professionally inspected.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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