Probably clogged capillary tube, this is the metering device that convert high pressure liquid into a gas.  Most fridge need to cut open the tube to replace it as it is welded on. Then ofc need to refill the gas after weld back new tube. But most ppl don’t bother to repair old fridge as it’s almost same price to buy new one.

Ya. But it’s a tube. Expansion valve is normally for car aircon. Same function

Capillary tube is the cheapest and simplest possible design and refrigerators are built to last lifetime in relatively clean conditions. It is also bulkier and long in size while the expansion valve in car is compact to fit engine bay and built to withstand heat and dirty conditions.