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Error code reference

Kenmore Oven Error Code F31

Shorted RTD sensor probe/wiring problem

Kenmore codesKenmore oven codes

Shorted RTD sensor probe/wiring problem: the Appliance Control Board sees the lower oven temperature probe as being a short circuit.

First step from the service manual

Check wiring in lower oven probe circuit for possible open or short condition. Check RTD resistance at room temperature (compare to probe resistance chart). Let the oven cool down and restart the function.

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

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What F31 means on a Kenmore oven

The F31 error code on a Kenmore oven indicates that the appliance control board has detected a short circuit condition in the lower oven RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) sensor probe circuit. An RTD probe is a temperature-sensing component whose electrical resistance changes predictably with temperature. At room temperature, the probe should measure a specific resistance value that falls within the range shown on the probe resistance chart for that model. When the control board reads a resistance value that is too low, essentially zero or near-zero ohms, it interprets this as a short circuit and triggers the F31 fault code.

The fault can originate at the probe itself, in the wiring harness connecting the probe to the control board, or at the connector terminals along that circuit. A shorted probe element inside the sensor body will cause the resistance to drop well below the expected room-temperature value. Damaged wiring, such as insulation that has melted against the oven cavity wall or been pinched during a previous repair, can create a direct short between the two conductors in the probe circuit. Corroded or collapsed connector pins can also cause a false short reading at the control board.

Diagnosis begins with allowing the oven to cool completely, then disconnecting the lower oven RTD probe and measuring its resistance with a multimeter. That reading should be compared against the probe resistance chart to confirm whether the probe itself is shorted. If probe resistance is within specification, the wiring harness between the probe connector and the control board must be inspected for damaged insulation, pinched wires, or shorts to ground. A confirmed short in the probe or wiring requires component replacement before the oven can resume safe operation.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F31

  1. 01

    Failed RTD sensor probe

    Part replacement

    The internal sensing element inside the lower oven RTD probe can fail and create a short circuit. Measuring the probe resistance with a multimeter and comparing it to the probe resistance chart will confirm if the probe itself is the source of the short.

  2. 02

    Damaged or pinched probe wiring

    Part replacement

    The wiring harness running from the RTD probe to the control board can have its insulation melted, pinched, or worn through, allowing the two conductors to contact each other or ground. A visual inspection of the full length of the wiring circuit, including any areas near the oven cavity walls, is needed to locate this damage.

  3. 03

    Corroded or collapsed connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    The connector pins at either end of the probe circuit can corrode or collapse, creating unintended electrical contact that registers as a short at the control board. Inspecting and cleaning the connectors, or replacing a damaged connector, is part of this repair.

  4. 04

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    In less common cases, the appliance control board itself may have an internal fault causing it to misread the probe circuit as shorted even when the probe and wiring test correctly. The control board should only be suspected after the probe and wiring have been confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F31

What does F31 mean on a Kenmore oven?
F31 means the appliance control board has detected a short circuit in the lower oven RTD temperature sensor probe circuit. The control board monitors the resistance of the probe and triggers this code when the resistance reads too low, indicating a shorted sensor or wiring problem. The fault disables the affected oven function to prevent unsafe operation.
Can I reset the F31 code and keep using my Kenmore oven?
You can attempt a reset by allowing the oven to cool down completely and restarting the function, which is the recommended first step. However, if the short circuit condition in the probe or wiring still exists, the F31 code will return. A reset alone does not fix the underlying electrical fault, so the probe circuit should be tested before relying on the oven for normal use.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore oven while it shows F31?
It is not recommended to continue using the oven while the F31 fault is active. A shorted temperature sensor means the control board cannot accurately monitor lower oven temperature, which could lead to overheating or unreliable cooking results. The oven should be diagnosed and repaired before regular use resumes.
How do I fix the F31 error on my Kenmore oven?
Start by letting the oven cool completely, then disconnect the lower oven RTD probe and measure its resistance with a multimeter, comparing the result to the probe resistance chart for your model. If the probe reads a very low or near-zero resistance, the probe is shorted and needs to be replaced. If the probe tests correctly, inspect the wiring harness for damaged insulation, pinched wires, or faulty connectors between the probe and the control board.
How much does it cost to repair an F31 error on a Kenmore oven?
Repair costs depend on which component is faulty. A replacement RTD sensor probe typically costs in the range of $20 to $60 for the part alone. If the control board is at fault, parts can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on the model. Adding professional labor will increase the total cost, generally ranging from $150 to $400 or higher for a complete repair.

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