Refrigerator compartment too warm while freezer may be normal; FF error shows on Café refrigerator display or via SmartHQ app.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker before removing any panels. Avoid working near moving fan blades with power applied.

Step-by-step checks:

• 1. Verify actual temperature: Place an appliance thermometer in the fresh food section (center shelf). After 20–30 minutes, confirm if temperature is above 40°F (4°C). If normal, the code may be intermittent; clear by unplugging for 5 minutes and restoring power.
• 2. Check airflow: Ensure no large containers or boxes are blocking the rear wall vents in the fresh food compartment. Rearrange items to allow air circulation and leave at least 1–2 inches clearance from the back wall.
• 3. Inspect fresh food evaporator fan: Remove shelves as needed and locate the rear interior panel in the fresh food section. With power restored briefly and doors closed for 1–2 minutes, open the door and listen for the fan. If the fan does not run or is noisy, the fan motor may be failing.
• 4. Check air damper operation: On many Café models, a motorized damper at the top left or rear of the fresh food section controls cold air from the freezer. With the unit powered, you should feel cold air from the damper when the compressor is running. If no airflow is felt and the freezer is cold, the damper may be stuck closed.
• 5. Inspect thermistor connections: Locate the fresh food thermistor (usually clipped to the liner wall or behind a small cover). With power off, verify the harness is fully seated and not damaged. A loose or corroded connector can cause false warm readings.
• When to call a technician: If the fan motor does not run with proper voltage, the damper does not move, or the thermistor tests out of range with a multimeter, replacement of these parts or the main control board is recommended and may require a professional.