Kenmore Range Error Code F3 E4

The F3 E4 error code on a Kenmore range indicates that the control board has detected an open circuit in the bottom oven temperature sensor. In electric and gas ranges with electronic controls, the oven temperature sensor is a resistive temperature device (RTD) that changes resistance as oven temperature changes. The control board continuously reads this resistance to regulate baking and broiling cycles. When the circuit reads as open, meaning infinite or unmeasurably high resistance, the board cannot determine the oven temperature and shuts down the bottom oven to prevent unsafe operation.

The bottom oven sensor is typically located at the rear interior wall of the oven cavity and connects to the control board via a wiring harness routed through the back of the range. An open circuit in this sensor circuit can originate at the sensor probe itself, at any connector along the wiring harness, or at the control board terminal. The distinction between the bottom sensor (F3 E4) and other sensor codes is important in ranges that have dual cavities or separate broil and bake sensor circuits, as each sensor monitors a specific heating zone.

Diagnosing this fault begins with a simple connection check. Unplugging the range and inspecting the sensor connector at the back panel is the first priority, since vibration and heat cycling can loosen plugs over time. If the connector is secure, resistance testing across the sensor terminals with a multimeter will confirm whether the sensor itself is functional or has failed open. A healthy oven temperature sensor typically reads around 1080 to 1100 ohms at room temperature, though the exact specification may vary by model.