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Error code reference

Electrolux Range Error Code C-31

PCB temp sensor opened

PCB temp sensor opened - NTC sensor on main PCB has open circuit.

First step from the service manual

Disconnect power, open back cover, remove PCB Main from holder, measure NTC sensor (located on back side of PCB) resistance: 10K at room temperature.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What C-31 means on a Electrolux range

The C-31 error code on an Electrolux range indicates that the NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature sensor mounted directly on the main PCB has developed an open circuit. The NTC sensor is a thermistor that the main board uses to monitor its own operating temperature. At room temperature, this sensor should measure approximately 10K ohms of resistance. An open circuit means the resistance has climbed to an unmeasurably high level, essentially breaking the circuit and causing the board to lose its temperature reference entirely.

The most common causes of this fault are physical damage to the sensor itself, a broken solder joint connecting the sensor to the PCB, or corrosion on the sensor leads or surrounding circuitry. Because the sensor is located on the back side of the PCB, it is somewhat protected during normal operation, but moisture intrusion, heat stress over time, or mechanical stress from handling can all degrade the connection or the component itself.

Diagnosis requires disconnecting power to the range, removing the back cover, extracting the main PCB from its holder, and using a multimeter to measure resistance across the NTC sensor on the board's back side. A reading far above 10K ohms at room temperature, or an open line reading (OL), confirms the sensor or its circuit has failed. Depending on whether the solder joint is the cause, a qualified technician may be able to reflow the joint, but in most cases the main PCB will require replacement.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of C-31

  1. 01

    Failed NTC thermistor on PCB

    Part replacement

    The NTC sensor itself has failed internally and now reads an open circuit instead of approximately 10K ohms at room temperature. This is the most likely root cause and is confirmed by measuring resistance directly across the sensor leads on the back of the main PCB.

  2. 02

    Broken or cracked solder joint

    Wiring / connection

    Thermal cycling over years of use can cause the solder joints holding the NTC sensor to the PCB to crack, interrupting continuity. Visually inspect the sensor's solder points on the back of the board under magnification for hairline fractures or lifted pads.

  3. 03

    Corrosion on sensor leads or PCB traces

    Part replacement

    Moisture intrusion into the back panel area can cause oxidation on the sensor leads or the copper traces connecting it to the circuit. Corrosion increases resistance and can eventually produce an open circuit condition.

  4. 04

    Physical damage to the PCB

    Part replacement

    Impact or stress during a previous repair or shipping can crack the PCB substrate near the sensor, severing the trace that carries the sensor signal. Inspect the board carefully around the sensor location for visible cracking or delamination.

  5. 05

    Connector or wiring fault between PCB sections

    Wiring / connection

    If the sensor signal travels through any internal connector before reaching the processor, a loose or corroded connector pin could produce an apparent open circuit reading without the sensor itself being faulty. Check all connectors on the main PCB for secure seating and clean contacts.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about C-31

What does C-31 mean on a Electrolux range?
C-31 indicates that the NTC temperature sensor located on the main PCB has an open circuit. This sensor normally measures approximately 10K ohms at room temperature and is used by the control board to monitor its own operating temperature. When the circuit is open, the board can no longer get a valid reading and triggers the C-31 fault. The range will not function normally until the sensor or board is repaired or replaced.
Can I fix the C-31 error myself without replacing the control board?
It is possible if the cause is a cracked solder joint rather than a failed sensor. After disconnecting power, removing the back cover, and taking the main PCB out of its holder, inspect the back side of the board for broken solder joints at the NTC sensor's connection points. A technician with soldering skills may be able to reflow the joint and restore continuity. However, if the sensor itself measures open or the PCB trace is damaged, board replacement is typically required.
Is it safe to continue using my Electrolux range while C-31 is displayed?
It is not recommended to operate the range while the C-31 fault is active. The NTC sensor on the main PCB exists to protect the board from overheating, and without a valid sensor reading the control board is operating without that protection. Continued use could risk further damage to the PCB or other components. Disconnect power and arrange for a diagnosis before resuming use.
Will resetting the range clear the C-31 error code?
A power reset, such as unplugging the range for a few minutes and restoring power, may temporarily clear the code from the display. However, if the NTC sensor has a true open circuit fault, the error will return once the board runs its diagnostic checks. A reset does not repair the underlying hardware problem, so professional diagnosis and repair are still required.
How much does it cost to repair a C-31 error on an Electrolux range?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If a solder joint reflow resolves the issue, labor costs alone may apply, typically in the range of $75 to $150 depending on the service provider. If the main PCB requires full replacement, parts and labor combined generally fall in the range of $200 to $500 or more, depending on the specific model and local labor rates. Getting a diagnostic quote before authorizing parts is advisable.

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