Kenmore Oven Error Code F16

F16 on a Kenmore oven indicates a potentiometer failure. The potentiometer is a variable resistor connected to a control knob that sends position data to the oven's analog board. When the board detects an invalid signal from the potentiometer, it displays F16 and halts normal operation. The fault points to either the potentiometer itself, the wiring connecting it to the analog board, or a connection issue along that circuit.

It is not recommended to operate the oven while F16 is active. The potentiometer provides position feedback for a control input, and a failure in that circuit means the oven may not correctly interpret your settings. Using the oven in this condition could result in unpredictable temperature behavior. Resolve the fault before resuming normal use.

Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement potentiometer typically costs in the range of $15 to $50 for the part alone. If the analog board also needs replacement, parts can range from $80 to $200 or more depending on the model. Adding professional labor will increase total costs, generally bringing a technician repair to somewhere between $100 and $300 depending on the parts required and local service rates.

A knowledgeable DIYer can attempt to fix F16 by first inspecting and reseating the wiring connectors between the analog board and the potentiometer. If the connections look secure but the fault returns, replacing the potentiometer is the next step and is a manageable repair for someone comfortable working on appliance components with the power disconnected. If the fault persists after replacing the potentiometer, the analog board may need professional evaluation.

Resetting the oven by cutting power at the breaker for a few minutes may temporarily clear the F16 code, but if the underlying potentiometer or wiring problem has not been fixed, the code will return. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it is not a repair. Address the root cause to prevent the code from coming back.