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Error code reference

GE Range Error Code F3

Open oven temperature sensor circuit (over 2700 ohms) or shorted sensor circuit (under 950 ohms); could be…

GE codesGE range codes

Open oven temperature sensor circuit (over 2700 ohms) or shorted sensor circuit (under 950 ohms); could be caused by contamination on terminals, pinched harness lead, or cold solder joint on control.

First step from the service manual

Disconnect power to range, disconnect sensor connector at control, measure sensor resistance at control connector — should read 1100 ohms at room ambient (approx. 72°F).

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

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What F3 means on a GE range

The F3 error code on a GE range indicates the control board has detected an open circuit in the oven temperature sensor (RTD probe) circuit. Specifically, the board is reading resistance above 2700 ohms from the sensor, which is outside the acceptable operating range. The sensor's resistance should measure approximately 1100 ohms at room temperature (around 72°F). This reading tells the control board it cannot get reliable temperature data, so it faults out rather than risk an uncontrolled bake or broil cycle. The fault can originate at the sensor itself, the wiring harness between the sensor and control board, or the connector terminals at the control.

For homeowners, the oven temperature sensor is a small probe mounted inside the oven cavity, usually in the upper rear corner. It works like a thermometer, sending a resistance signal to the control board so the oven knows when to cycle the heating elements on and off. When the F3 code appears, the control board is saying it has lost that signal or is reading an implausibly high resistance value, which typically means the sensor has failed, a wire has broken or corroded, or a connector has come loose or degraded. The oven will not heat properly or at all while this code is active.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3

  1. 01

    Failed oven temperature sensor (RTD probe)

    Part replacement

    The sensor itself has developed an open circuit internally, causing resistance to exceed 2700 ohms. This is the most common cause of F3 and is confirmed when resistance measured directly at the sensor leads is significantly above 1100 ohms at room temperature.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring harness

    Part replacement

    A wire in the harness running from the sensor to the control board has broken, frayed, or been pinched, creating an open circuit. This can occur near the oven door hinge area or anywhere the harness is routed through the range chassis.

  3. 03

    Corroded or deformed connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    The connector terminals at the control board end of the sensor circuit have corroded, backed out, or deformed, interrupting the electrical path between the sensor and the board. This is identified during the initial resistance check at the control connector.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring measure correctly at 1100 ohms but F3 persists, the control board's sensor input circuit has failed and is misreading a good signal. This is the least likely cause and should only be suspected after all wiring and sensor checks are completed.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3

What does the F3 error code mean on a GE range?
F3 on a GE range means the control board detected an open circuit in the oven temperature sensor circuit, with resistance reading above 2700 ohms. The oven temperature sensor (RTD probe) should read approximately 1100 ohms at room temperature. The fault points to a failed sensor, broken wiring, or a bad connection between the sensor and the control board.
Can I still use my GE range with an F3 error code?
The stovetop burners may still function, but you should not attempt to use the oven while F3 is active. The control board has no reliable temperature data, which means it cannot regulate oven heat safely. Operating the oven in this condition risks overheating. Address the fault before using the oven bake or broil functions.
How do I fix F3 on a GE range?
Start by disconnecting power to the range, then disconnect the sensor connector at the control board and measure resistance across the sensor leads at that connector. A reading near 1100 ohms at room temperature means the sensor and harness are good and the control board may be at fault. A reading well above 2700 ohms or an open circuit points to a failed sensor or broken wire. Also check each sensor lead to ground for shorts and inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or deformation. In most cases replacing the oven temperature sensor resolves the code.
How much does it cost to fix an F3 error code on a GE range?
A replacement GE oven temperature sensor typically costs between $20 and $60 for the part and is one of the easier range repairs to perform, requiring only a screwdriver in most models. If the wiring harness is damaged, a harness repair or replacement adds cost. If the control board is the cause, board replacement can run $150 to $350 or more for the part alone. A technician service call will add $75 to $150 in labor depending on your area.
How do I test the oven temperature sensor before replacing it on a GE range?
Disconnect power to the range and unplug the sensor connector from the control board. Use a multimeter set to ohms and measure resistance across the two sensor terminals at the control connector. At a room temperature of approximately 72°F, a functional sensor reads close to 1100 ohms. A reading significantly higher than 1100 ohms or an open reading (OL) confirms the sensor or its wiring has failed. You can also test resistance directly at the sensor body itself to isolate whether the sensor or the wiring harness is the problem.

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