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Error code reference

Kenmore Range Error Code F2-E6

STOP/CLEAR key contact closed for more than 60 seconds

Kenmore codesKenmore range codes

STOP/CLEAR key contact closed for more than 60 seconds — Key held down too long, shorted key, warped keypad, or moisture inside keypad.

First step from the service manual

1. Verify failure if not displayed. Go to manual diagnostics screen 5 to view and clear error codes. 2. Unplug range or disconnect power. 3. Unplug keytail connector. Inspect connector and keytail ends for damage. 4. Plug keytail into connector ensuring fully seated. 5. Plug in range or reconnect power. 6. Observe for longer than 1 minute. 7. If failure remains, replace keypad. 8. If failure still remains, replace the control.

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

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What F2-E6 means on a Kenmore range

The F2-E6 error code on a Kenmore range indicates that the STOP/CLEAR key contact has been detected in a closed (active) state for more than 60 seconds. The electronic control board continuously monitors each key switch on the keypad. When any key remains electrically closed beyond its expected contact window, the control interprets this as a fault condition and throws the corresponding error. For F2-E6, the STOP/CLEAR key is the specific contact flagged by the control.

This fault most commonly originates at the keypad membrane itself or at the keytail ribbon connector that links the keypad to the control board. A warped or delaminated keypad membrane can press a key contact closed permanently. Moisture intrusion beneath the membrane surface is another frequent cause, as condensation or spilled liquids can bridge the switch contacts and mimic a continuous key press. Physical damage to the keytail ribbon or a poorly seated connector can also produce erratic or falsely closed contact signals.

Diagnosing this code involves isolating whether the fault lives in the keypad assembly or the control board itself. The diagnostic sequence starts with disconnecting the keytail ribbon connector to break the signal path between the keypad and the control. If the error clears after reseating the connector and restoring power, the fault was likely connection-related. If the code persists with the keypad fully disconnected and reseated, the keypad membrane requires replacement. A control board that continues to report F2-E6 after a confirmed good keypad is installed points to an internal board failure.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F2-E6

  1. 01

    Warped or damaged keypad membrane

    Part replacement

    A delaminated or physically warped keypad membrane can keep the STOP/CLEAR contact pressed against its switch point continuously. Inspect the keypad surface for bubbling, warping, or visible deformation around the STOP/CLEAR key area.

  2. 02

    Moisture or liquid intrusion under keypad

    Part replacement

    Spills or condensation that seep beneath the keypad membrane can bridge switch contacts and create a false continuous key-press signal. Look for discoloration, residue, or fogging visible through or around the keypad panel.

  3. 03

    Loose or damaged keytail ribbon connector

    Wiring / connection

    The keytail is the ribbon cable that connects the keypad to the control board. If this connector is not fully seated or the ribbon end is kinked or torn, it can produce erratic closed-contact signals. Unplug the range, disconnect the keytail, inspect both ends for damage, and reseat firmly.

  4. 04

    Physically stuck STOP/CLEAR key

    Part replacement

    Debris or dried spill residue around the key can cause it to bind in the depressed position. Check whether the key physically springs back when pressed and released.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the keypad has been replaced and the keytail connector is confirmed good but F2-E6 persists, the control board itself may be misreading the key contact input. This is the least common cause and should only be considered after keypad replacement fails to resolve the fault.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F2-E6

What does F2-E6 mean on a Kenmore range?
F2-E6 means the control board detected that the STOP/CLEAR key contact remained closed for more than 60 seconds. The control interprets this as either a stuck key, a shorted keypad membrane, moisture inside the keypad, or a faulty connection at the keytail ribbon connector. The range flags this as a fault because a continuously closed key contact is not a normal operating condition.
Can I fix the F2-E6 error myself without replacing parts?
In some cases, yes. Start by unplugging the range, then disconnect and firmly reseat the keytail ribbon connector that links the keypad to the control board. If moisture is suspected, allow the keypad area to dry completely before restoring power. If reseating the connector resolves the fault, no parts are needed. If the error returns, keypad replacement is the next step.
Will resetting the range clear the F2-E6 error code?
A power reset by unplugging the range or tripping its circuit breaker may temporarily clear the code from the display, but the error will return if the underlying cause is not fixed. The keypad contact that triggered the fault must be corrected first. You can also access and clear stored error codes through the manual diagnostics screen 5 on this model.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore range while F2-E6 is showing?
F2-E6 is a keypad input fault, not a temperature runaway or heating element failure, so it does not represent an immediate fire or shock hazard. However, a stuck or shorted STOP/CLEAR key can interfere with normal control operation, and the range should not be relied on until the fault is resolved. Avoid leaving the appliance unattended while the error is active.
How much does it cost to repair the F2-E6 error on a Kenmore range?
If only the keypad membrane needs replacement, parts typically range from around 30 to 100 dollars depending on the specific model, and the repair is often a DIY-friendly job. If the control board is also at fault, board replacement can cost between 150 and 400 dollars in parts, with additional labor costs if a technician performs the work. Starting with keypad replacement is recommended before replacing the control board, as the keypad is the more common cause.

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