freezer won't start-tries to kick in but nothing happens.

There is such a thing as a hard start capacitor, for cases where...you guess it...it is hard to start. There are different types of start mechanisms, can't say if a hard start would fit in your application, but its worth a try. You should probably check for continuity between the compressor contacts. And open winding would condemn your machine.

My fridge was warranted for 5 years and went out last month with exactly the same symptoms as yours at 5 1/2 years.

You have a device on your compressor called a start/overheat relay. It is broken and needs replacing. I got one on Ebay for $22 including shipping. I also bought a couple of generic start kits for $10 each.

The repairman will likely want about $500 to repair the fridge. You can pick up a new side by side at Fry's for $600.

Hi,

Model#?

Low voltage, bad start relay, bad compressor can cause the compressor to try to start but shut off on the built in safety overload.

A run capacitor?

jeff. Appliance Repair Aid

Sounds like either a hard start kit will do it, or maybe the compressor is beyond repair.

Hi Jeff: the model number isffu12c2aw0. Do not know what type capacitor it is listed on the manual (it piggibacks on the controller which connects to the complressor terminals. Thank you.

Appliance Repair Aid wrote:

Well, my kenmore/whirlpool book side by side used start overheat relay combo.

"Refrigerator Compressor

The above was what I thought was the problem. That is expensive.

Turns out that it was the overheat sensor broken which prevented the start relay from operating. That is cheap.

Mine doesn't use a capacitor at all.