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Error code reference

Kenmore Oven Error Code F10

The oven control has sensed a potential runaway condition in the lower oven; the Appliance Control Board may…

Kenmore codesKenmore oven codes

The oven control has sensed a potential runaway condition in the lower oven; the Appliance Control Board may have a shorted relay or the RTD sensor may have gone bad.

First step from the service manual

If oven is overheating, disconnect power. Check RTD sensor probe and replace if necessary.

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

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What F10 means on a Kenmore oven

The F10 error code on a Kenmore oven indicates that the control board has detected a runaway temperature condition in the lower oven cavity. This means the oven's temperature has risen beyond safe operating limits, or the control system has received a signal suggesting uncontrolled heating is occurring. The two primary components involved are the RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor probe and the Appliance Control Board, either of which can trigger this fault when malfunctioning.

The RTD sensor probe is a resistive temperature sensing element mounted inside the oven cavity. It changes resistance in proportion to temperature, allowing the control board to regulate heat accurately. If the RTD sensor develops an internal short or its resistance readings become erratic, the control board may interpret the signal as a dangerously high or rapidly climbing temperature, triggering the F10 fault even when the oven is not actually overheating. Conversely, a shorted relay on the control board can cause the bake or broil element to remain energized continuously, producing a genuine runaway heating condition.

When F10 appears, the first priority is safety. If the oven is actually overheating, disconnect power immediately at the breaker or by unplugging the unit. Once the appliance is safe to work on, the RTD sensor probe should be tested for correct resistance values and inspected for physical damage. If the sensor checks out within spec, the control board becomes the primary suspect due to a potentially welded or shorted relay contact that is keeping the heating circuit active.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F10

  1. 01

    Faulty RTD Sensor Probe

    Part replacement

    The RTD sensor probe can develop an internal short or drift out of its correct resistance range, causing the control board to misread oven temperature and trigger a false runaway fault. Testing the sensor with a multimeter and comparing resistance to specification will confirm if it has failed.

  2. 02

    Shorted Relay on the Control Board

    Part replacement

    A relay on the Appliance Control Board can weld shut or short internally, keeping the bake or broil circuit energized even when the control is commanding it off. This creates a true runaway heating condition and typically requires replacing the control board.

  3. 03

    Damaged RTD Sensor Wiring or Connections

    Wiring / connection

    Wiring harness damage, corroded terminals, or loose connectors between the RTD sensor and the control board can cause resistance readings to appear shorted or out of range. Inspecting and reseating all connections along the sensor circuit is an important early diagnostic step.

  4. 04

    Control Board Failure Not Related to Relay

    Part replacement

    Beyond a shorted relay, broader control board component failures can cause the board to misinterpret temperature data or fail to regulate the heating elements correctly. If sensor and wiring checks pass, the board itself should be evaluated.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F10

What does F10 mean on a Kenmore oven?
The F10 code means the oven control has detected a potential runaway temperature condition in the lower oven. This fault points to either a shorted relay on the Appliance Control Board or a failed RTD sensor probe sending incorrect temperature readings. If the oven is actually overheating when this code appears, disconnect power immediately. Diagnosis should start with inspecting and testing the RTD sensor probe.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore oven when it shows F10?
No, you should not use the oven while F10 is active. This code indicates a possible runaway heating condition, which means the oven may not be able to regulate its temperature properly. If the oven feels unusually hot or is not shutting off, cut power at the circuit breaker right away. Do not operate the appliance again until the fault has been diagnosed and repaired.
Will resetting my Kenmore oven clear the F10 error?
Disconnecting power and restoring it may temporarily clear the F10 code, but the fault will return if the underlying problem has not been fixed. If a faulty RTD sensor or a shorted relay on the control board is the root cause, those components must be repaired or replaced to permanently resolve the error. A reset alone is not a fix and should not be relied upon as a solution.
How do I fix the F10 error on a Kenmore oven?
Start by disconnecting power to the oven for safety, especially if the oven is overheating. Then inspect the RTD sensor probe inside the lower oven cavity for physical damage and test it with a multimeter. If the sensor is defective, replace it. If the sensor tests correctly, the Appliance Control Board is likely the problem due to a shorted or welded relay, and the board will need to be replaced.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore oven showing F10?
Repair costs depend on which component has failed. An RTD sensor probe is generally the less expensive fix, with parts typically ranging from around $15 to $50 plus labor if a technician is involved. A replacement Appliance Control Board is more costly, with parts commonly ranging from $100 to $300 or more depending on the specific model. If you hire a professional, expect additional labor charges on top of part costs.

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