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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 caused by contamination on terminals…

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What the F3 error code actually means

Your oven's temperature sensor is sending a signal that the control board doesn't trust, so the oven is shutting itself down as a safety precaution. Think of the sensor as a thermometer that tells the oven how hot it actually is inside. Without a reliable reading, the oven won't turn on because it has no way to know if it's heating correctly or dangerously overheating.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F3 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
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).
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Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of F3

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Failed oven temperature sensor (RTD probe)
  2. 2Broken or damaged sensor wiring harness
  3. 3Corroded or deformed connector terminals
  4. 4Faulty control board

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Questions people ask 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.
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 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.
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 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.

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