Refrigerator thermistor

So.. we've been noting our refrigerator running on the warmer side. Keep adjusting the thermistor (measures temp and controls refer cycling) but no difference. Once home decided to check it, thermistor failing isn't uncommon. Just measure resistance at its plug on control board, then dunk thermistor in ice water and check again. Figured that'd be easy enough before ordering a new one-just cause...

Noted thermistor clip is about and inch from the top, also noted black (shrink wrap) is showing on cable. Never seen that before. Anyway pulled the plastic clip off the fins to remove thermistor and the thermistor fell out.


It wasn't attached to the clip, just trapped behind. hmm
Placing thermistor clip up in fins with the thermistors shrink wrap showing (and length of cable inside) places thermistor less than halfway up ....

Other than inside the clip where it belongs (above it just setting there, once inserted into clip its very snug), replacing all the way to top. Did have to pull few inches of cable inside of refer to allow thermistor to reach?
Didn't even bother to measure resistance. Because of the short length of cable inside I can only assume at some point from outside snagged pulled cable in. Doesn't explain not being attached to clip, could be its always been loose, cable just working itself out. Who knows but does explain moving the thermistor never seemed to do much. Doh!
Just an FYI- thermistor is supposed to be attached to clip-