Is This the Part You Need?
If your Whirlpool refrigerator is running warm, cycling erratically, displaying temperature error codes, or the compressor and fans are behaving inconsistently, the electronic control box is a primary suspect. Part W11496870 is the current OEM control box, superseding legacy numbers W11130827, W11199714, W11221334, W11253271, and W11396157. It installs directly with no modifications and restores precise temperature management across all refrigerator zones.
Symptoms This Part Fixes
- Refrigerator not cooling or running warmer than set temperature
- Freezer section too warm or not freezing properly
- Temperature fluctuating or cycling erratically
- Error codes or fault codes on the display panel
- Compressor not running or running continuously
- Evaporator or condenser fan not operating correctly
- Ice maker not producing ice (temperature-related)
- Refrigerator completely dead — no response, no display
Part Details
- OEM Part Number: W11496870
- Supersedes: W11130827, W11199714, W11221334, W11253271, W11396157
- Part Type: Refrigerator Electronic Control Box / Main Control Board Assembly
- Compatible Brands: Whirlpool (verify by model number)
- Fit: Direct OEM replacement — no modification required
- Repair Difficulty: Intermediate (3/5)
Installation Notes
- Skill Level: Intermediate — access panel removal required
- Disconnect power at the wall outlet or breaker before starting — control boards carry live voltage
- The control box is typically located at the rear of the refrigerator or behind an interior access panel — consult your model's service diagram to confirm location
- Photograph all wire harness connections before disconnecting — label connectors if needed
- Reconnect all harnesses firmly and verify each connector is fully seated before reassembly
- Restore power and allow the refrigerator 24 hours to stabilize temperature before evaluating performance
- If error codes persist after installation, perform a hard reset: disconnect power for 5 minutes, then restore
Compatible Models
Add compatible model numbers here. Contact us to confirm your model.
💡 Pro Tip — Check the Thermistor Before Condemning the Control Box:
A faulty temperature thermistor (sensor) sends bad readings to the control box and causes the exact same symptoms — erratic cycling, wrong temperatures, and error codes. Before replacing the control box, test the thermistor resistance with a multimeter (typically 5k–50k ohms depending on temperature). If the thermistor is out of spec, replace it first — it's a fraction of the cost. If the thermistor checks out, the control box is the next logical step.
A faulty temperature thermistor (sensor) sends bad readings to the control box and causes the exact same symptoms — erratic cycling, wrong temperatures, and error codes. Before replacing the control box, test the thermistor resistance with a multimeter (typically 5k–50k ohms depending on temperature). If the thermistor is out of spec, replace it first — it's a fraction of the cost. If the thermistor checks out, the control box is the next logical step.
✅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.
Buy Online Pick Up In-Store
Address
101 Trillium Dr
Kitchener, Ontario N2E 1W8
Kitchener, Ontario N2E 1W8
Phone
Hours
Mon–Fri 9 AM–5 PM • Sat 9 AM–1 PM
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
