Refrigerator Temperature Off or Compressor Running Non-Stop? W11438736 Thermistor – Fix Temp Problems Fast
Erratic temperatures, food freezing in the fridge section, or a compressor that never shuts off are the clearest signs of a failed thermistor. In most Whirlpool-platform top-freezer and bottom-freezer refrigerators, this is caused by a drifted or open-circuit NTC thermistor. When it fails, the control board receives incorrect resistance readings and loses the ability to regulate compressor cycles, fan speed, and defrost timing. ⚡ Common failure point in WRT, MRT, and ART series refrigerators. Part W11438736 is the genuine OEM replacement — direct-fit, no modifications required — that restores accurate temperature sensing and normal operation immediately.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ Refrigerator powers on and compressor runs (or runs continuously)
- ✔ Door seals are intact and condenser coils are not heavily frosted
- ✔ Power supply and outlet confirmed OK
- ✔ Main control board shows no unrelated fault codes
- ✔ ONLY problem is incorrect compartment temperature, continuous compressor run, or temp-related fault code
Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Refrigerator or freezer running too warm — food spoiling or ice cream melting
- Fridge section freezing food unexpectedly
- Compressor running continuously without cycling off
- Compressor not running at all despite power
- Excessive frost buildup in the freezer compartment
- Temperature sensor fault code on the control panel display
✔ If these symptoms match, the W11438736 thermistor is the most likely failed component in the system.
✔ In most cases, replacing this thermistor restores accurate temperature control and normal compressor cycling immediately.
📦 Part Details
- Part Number: W11438736 (OEM) / W10838965CM (XPart)
- Type: NTC thermistor (temperature sensor) — resistance drops as temperature rises; reads ~5,000–6,000 Ω at 21°C / 70°F
- Replaces: OEM direct-fit thermistor assembly — supersedes W10556397, W10838965, W11108173 (no modification required)
- Brands: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Kenmore
While the evaporator cover is off, inspect the wire harness connector for corrosion or moisture damage — a corroded connector causes the same fault symptoms even with a new thermistor installed. A 5-minute inspection now prevents a repeat service call.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: MODERATE — 45–75 minutes. Unplug the refrigerator before beginning any disassembly. Locate the thermistor clipped to the evaporator cover or inserted into a grommet in the air duct inside the freezer or fresh food compartment — remove the evaporator cover (2–4 screws) to access it. Disconnect the wire harness, note the lead routing, remove the old thermistor from its clip or grommet, and seat the new W11438736 firmly before reconnecting. Plug in and allow 2–4 hours for temperatures to stabilize before evaluating performance.
💡 Pro Tip
At room temperature (~21°C / 70°F), a healthy W11438736 reads approximately 5,000–6,000 ohms across its two leads. An open circuit (OL) or a reading far outside this range confirms thermistor failure. This 2-minute test rules out the main control board as the root cause and ensures you're replacing the right component.
🔗 Model Hub Pages
Find part compatibility guides and repair resources for your specific model: WRT108FZDB00, WRT138FZDB00, WRT148FZDB00, WRT318FZDB00, WRT318FMDB00, WRT519SZDB00, WRT549SZDB00, WRT348FMEB00, MRT118FFFE01, MRT118FFFH01, MRT118FFFM01, MRT118FFFZ01, MRT318FZDE00, MRT519SZDE00, MRT519SFFH00, ART308FFDB00, ART318FFDB02, ART348FFFB00, 5GT118FFEW00, 5MT519SFEG00, IK8FXNGFDM00.
✓ Model-Specific Repair Pages
✅Compatibility & Cross Reference
Not sure about your model number? Call 1-877-899-7278 and we’ll help you confirm. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used for compatibility reference only.
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