A plain-language snapshot of SY CE for Kenmore Refrigerator — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Lena Hart Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeSY CE
ApplianceRefrigerator
Quick answer
SY CE reports a communications failure between the electronic control board and user interface on Kenmore French-door models beginning 253.7031.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so SY CE may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What thiscode means
Communication failed between the electronic control board and the user interface.
SY CE on a Kenmore French-door refrigerator with a model number beginning 253.7031 means the electronic control board and the user interface are not communicating.
What the manual says
The manual lists SY CE together with SY CF under one condition and one set of steps. Unplug the refrigerator, then check the wire harness connections between the user interface and the electronic control board. If those connections are sound, it replaces the electronic control board, and if the problem continues, the user interface.
What is for a technician
Deciding between the board and the interface, and replacing either one, is not owner work. Keep the refrigerator unplugged while anyone handles the harness.
Related Kenmore refrigerator codes
SY CF: the sibling code with the identical communication fault.
SY EF: an evaporator fan circuit failure on the same refrigerator.
Kenmore refrigerator service in Los Angeles
If SY CE returns after the harness check, our Los Angeles technicians can work through the board and the interface. Call (310) 554-8899 or go to refrigerator service, with the code and your 253.7031 model number ready.
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Get started
Seeing this code onyour Kenmore appliance?
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