Refrigerator stopped working

[Jose&Kristen]

We have the Norcold n7x and it’s indicating that “Communications between the user interface (controls) and the main control board assembly (power board) have been lost.”
According to the manual it is supposed to return to the last known setting, but nothing. According to the manual it is supposed to be resolved by resetting the unit, but no joy there either.

Can this be fixed, or should I start looking for a new refrigerator?

[norty1]

Is it in warranty? I would do some more research before casting it aside.

[RedHorse1]

I agree with Nort, more research. I would suspect the control board or the main board has a fault.

Parts list: https://www.thetford.com/wp-content/...5_20180223.pdf

Owners :https://norcold.com/wp-content/uploa...B_20180604.pdf

Service: https://www.manualslib.com/products/...x-9059300.html

[Jose&Kristen]

Originally Posted by norty1

Is it in warranty? I would do some more research before casting it aside.

According to their website, it's a 2-year warranty, and we picked up the camper exactly 2 years and 2 weeks ago. However, the original refrigerator was replaced under warranty in Sept of 2018. So it should be, but it's possible they could interpret as being just out of warranty. And if they do, I might buy the extended warranty.

Either way, I'm still wondering if it can be fixed, or if it needs to be replaced. And I wonder about the viability of a DIY replacement, if it comes to that.

[RedHorse1]

Short answer is yes, it most likely can be fixed. YouTube has several trouble shooting vids on these things. Most issues are around the electronics.
It’s possible a connector has come loose but I think one of the boards has failed. Looking into warranty would be the cheapest route (if they cover this at all). Next most cost-effective would be replacing the boards yourself.
The main board is easy to access and the control board will require a little disassembly.
A mobile RV tech or RV shop could probably fix it if you aren’t comfortable digging in yourself.

[Jose&Kristen]

I called Norcold, and they recommended a new Power Control board, which was about $110. Took about 30 minutes to replace.
We took our first trip since the replacement, and it’s working!

[JFlightRisk]

Originally Posted by Jose&Kristen

I called Norcold, and they recommended a new Power Control board, which was about $110. Took about 30 minutes to replace.
We took our first trip since the replacement, and it’s working!