GE Range Error Code F3 E5

F3 E5 indicates that the lower oven temperature sensor has been detected as shorted by the control board. A shorted sensor produces an abnormally low resistance reading, which signals an invalid temperature condition. The range disables the lower oven in response to prevent unsafe operation. The sensor, its wiring, or in rare cases the control board will need to be inspected and likely replaced.

It is not recommended to use the lower oven while this fault code is active. The error indicates the control board cannot trust the temperature data from the sensor, which means the oven cannot regulate heat properly in that cavity. Continued use could result in the oven overheating or failing to heat at all. If your range has a separate upper oven and it is not affected, that section may still be usable while you address the lower oven fault.

If the lower oven temperature sensor is the cause, the part typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on the specific GE model, and most repairs can be completed in under an hour. If a professional technician is needed, expect to pay an additional $75 to $150 or more in labor. If the control board turns out to be the faulty component, costs rise significantly, often ranging from $150 to $350 or higher for the part alone, making a professional diagnosis worthwhile before purchasing a board.

Many homeowners and DIYers can address this fault by starting with the basics: disconnect power, remove the back panel, and check that the sensor connector is fully seated. If the connector looks fine, testing the sensor resistance with a multimeter and comparing it to the expected value around 1080 to 1100 ohms at room temperature will confirm whether the sensor needs replacement. Replacing the sensor is a straightforward repair on most GE ranges, involving removing a couple of screws and unplugging a connector.

Unplugging the range or tripping the circuit breaker for a few minutes may temporarily clear the display, but the code will return if the underlying sensor or wiring problem has not been corrected. A reset is useful as a first step to confirm whether the fault is intermittent or persistent, but it does not repair a shorted sensor or damaged wiring. A permanent fix requires inspecting and replacing the faulty component.