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Error code reference

Kenmore Range Error Code F4 E3

Over temperature during clean (temperature runaway during self-clean).

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What the F4 E3 error code actually means

Your Kenmore range detected that the oven got dangerously hot during a self-cleaning cycle, and the temperature would not stop rising the way it should. The oven shut itself down to prevent damage or a fire hazard. This is typically caused by a stuck relay on the control board or a faulty temperature sensor that is giving incorrect readings.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F4 E3 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Enter Diagnostic mode and press BAKE key to cycle the bake relay on and off to verify relay operation.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of F4 E3

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Welded or stuck bake relay on the control board
  2. 2Faulty oven temperature sensor (RTD probe)
  3. 3Failed oven control board
  4. 4Bake element failure causing arcing or shorting
  5. 5Poor door latch or seal allowing inaccurate temperature readings

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Questions people ask about F4 E3

What does F4 E3 mean on a Kenmore range?
F4 E3 indicates an over-temperature condition during the self-clean cycle, also called a temperature runaway fault. The oven detected that cavity temperature rose beyond safe limits or was not being controlled properly by the bake relay. The appliance shuts down automatically to prevent damage or a fire hazard. The most common causes are a stuck bake relay on the control board or a defective oven temperature sensor.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore range after seeing the F4 E3 code?
You should not attempt another self-clean cycle until the root cause has been identified and corrected. If the bake relay is welded shut, running the oven in any mode could result in continued uncontrolled heating. Surface burners may remain usable if they operate on a separate circuit, but the oven cavity should be considered out of service until the fault is resolved.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore range showing the F4 E3 error?
Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A replacement oven temperature sensor typically runs in the range of $20 to $60 for the part. A new control board is the most expensive scenario, often ranging from $150 to $350 or more for the part alone. Adding professional labor can bring total repair costs to anywhere from $100 to $500 depending on your location and the specific model.
Can I fix the F4 E3 error myself, or do I need a technician?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform basic diagnostics, including entering diagnostic mode and pressing the BAKE key to test relay operation, as well as testing the oven temperature sensor with a multimeter. However, replacing a control board or internal wiring components involves working near high-voltage parts, so comfort with appliance repair is important before proceeding. If diagnostics point to a control board replacement, many technicians prefer to handle that repair to avoid damage to the new part during installation.
Will resetting the range clear the F4 E3 error code?
Disconnecting power to the range may clear the error code from the display temporarily, but it will not fix the underlying problem. If the bake relay is stuck, the temperature sensor is faulty, or the control board is defective, the fault condition still exists and the code will return when the self-clean cycle is attempted again. Proper diagnosis of the components involved is necessary before the repair can be considered complete.

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