Samsung Refrigerator Error Code 44E: Ice Tray Motor Error
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What Error Code 44E Means
The 44E error code means the ice tray twist motor is not completing its rotation. This motor twists the ice tray to eject frozen cubes into the bucket. When the motor stalls, jams, or fails electronically, the control board throws 44E (or 44C on older models). Ice production stops until the motor issue is resolved.
Common Causes
Ice frozen around the tray
Excess water from a leaking fill valve or condensation froze solid around the ice tray. The motor cannot generate enough torque to twist through the ice block.
Burned-out tray motor
The DC motor that twists the ice tray has failed. Internal windings are open or shorted. The motor draws no current or draws excessive current and the board shuts it down.
Stripped motor gear
The plastic drive gear connecting the motor shaft to the ice tray has stripped teeth. The motor spins but the tray does not twist.
Control board not powering the motor
The main PCB is not sending the signal or voltage to the tray motor. A failed transistor or relay on the board breaks the motor circuit.
How to Fix It
- 1
Remove the ice bucket and inspect
Pull out the ice bucket. Look at the ice tray inside the maker. If the tray is encased in a solid block of ice, the motor is jammed by ice, not broken. If the tray looks clear, the motor or its gears are the problem.
- 2
Thaw the ice tray
Unplug the refrigerator. Use a hair dryer on low heat to melt ice around the tray. Hold the dryer 6-8 inches from the tray and keep it moving — do not focus heat on one spot. Collect meltwater with towels. This process takes 10-15 minutes for heavy buildup.
Unplug the refrigerator before using a hair dryer near any internal components.
- 3
Run a test cycle
Plug the refrigerator back in. Press and hold the ice maker test button for 10 seconds until you hear a chime. Watch the tray — it should twist within 1-2 minutes. If it twists and ejects ice, the blockage was the issue. If it does not move, proceed to the next step.
- 4
Check the motor and gear assembly
Unplug the fridge. Remove the ice maker from the freezer wall (2-3 Phillips screws). Disconnect the wire harness. Flip the ice maker over and remove the bottom cover plate (2-4 screws). Inspect the motor gear. If teeth are stripped or broken, the motor assembly needs replacement.
- 5
Test the motor electrically
Set your multimeter to ohms. Touch the probes to the motor terminals. A healthy tray motor reads between 50 and 200 ohms. An open-line reading (OL) confirms a burned-out motor.
- 6
Replace the ice maker assembly
Samsung does not sell the tray motor separately on most models — the entire ice maker assembly is the replacement part. Order by your refrigerator model number. Mount the new assembly, reconnect the harness, run a test cycle, and confirm the tray twists and ejects normally.
When to Call a Professional
If the ice maker assembly needs replacement or you suspect the main control board, contact TruePro. We diagnose the exact failure for $59, and that fee goes toward your repair. Our CA License #51112 backs all work, along with a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. Same-day service is often available in LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $60 – $150 |
| Professional repair | $200 – $400 |
Complete ice maker assemblies cost $60-$150. Professional repair includes labor at $90-$150/hr. Use code NEW15 for 15% off labor on your first TruePro service.
See full refrigerator repair cost breakdown →Samsung Refrigerator 44E — FAQ
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