GE Oven Error Code F3

F3 on a GE oven indicates a fault in the oven temperature sensor circuit, such as an open sensor, a broken or intermittent wiring harness, or a sensor lead shorted to ground at the Electronic Range Control. It can also be triggered when door lock switches 1 and 2 close at the same time, pointing to a door lock mechanism fault. The oven will typically stop heating until the fault is resolved.

No, you should not attempt to use the oven while F3 is active. The error means the control cannot reliably read the oven temperature, so it cannot regulate heat properly. Continuing to use the oven in this condition could result in overheating or unpredictable behavior.

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A replacement oven temperature sensor typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part alone, making it one of the more affordable fixes. If the ERC or door lock assembly needs replacement, parts and labor combined could range from $150 to $400 or more depending on the model and service rates in your area.

A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose F3 by testing the sensor circuit resistance at the ERC connector and visually inspecting the wiring harness and door lock assembly. If the sensor tests open or out of range, replacing the temperature sensor is a straightforward repair. However, if the fault is in the ERC itself or involves the door lock wiring, the repair may be more complex and could benefit from a trained technician.

Resetting the oven by cutting power at the circuit breaker for a few minutes may temporarily clear the F3 code, but the fault will return if the underlying problem is not repaired. An intermittent harness connection in particular may cause the code to appear and disappear. A reset alone is not a fix and should only be used as part of the diagnostic process.