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Error code reference

KitchenAid Microwave Error Code F3-E3

Temperature sensor (microwave) shorted.

KitchenAid codesKitchenAid microwave codes

Temperature sensor (microwave) shorted.

First step from the service manual

Disconnect power or unplug oven, check microwave sensor connection, measure sensor resistance (280k ohms at 70°F, 1k ohms at 392°F).

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

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What F3-E3 means on a KitchenAid microwave

F3-E3 indicates the control board has detected a short condition in the meat probe circuit. Instead of reading a resistance value within the expected range, the board is seeing near-zero resistance, which signals a short either in the probe itself, the probe jack mounted inside the oven cavity, or the wiring harness connecting the jack to the control board. The code triggers as soon as the board reads an out-of-range signal from the probe circuit, halting normal operation to prevent a false temperature reading from affecting cook cycles.

For homeowners: the meat probe is the temperature sensor you plug into the side wall of the microwave cavity to monitor food temperature during cooking. When the microwave shows F3-E3, it means the probe or the socket it plugs into is sending a faulty electrical signal. The microwave cannot tell whether the food has reached the correct temperature, so it stops the cooking program and displays this error. The probe itself is the most common failure point, but a loose or corroded connection at the jack or a damaged wire in the rear of the oven can also cause this fault.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3-E3

  1. 01

    Failed meat probe (internal short)

    Part replacement

    The probe's internal thermistor has shorted, causing resistance to drop well outside the expected range (78k ohms at 60°F, 37k ohms at 90°F). This is the most frequent cause of F3-E3 and is confirmed by measuring probe resistance with a multimeter.

  2. 02

    Poor or loose connection at probe jack

    Wiring / connection

    The probe jack inside the oven cavity can develop a loose or corroded contact point, causing an intermittent or sustained short signal to the control board. Removing and firmly reseating the probe may resolve the fault if the jack is the source.

  3. 03

    Damaged wiring harness between probe jack and control board

    Part replacement

    The harness running from the probe jack through the rear of the oven can develop a pinched, chafed, or shorted wire, sending a false short reading to the control board regardless of whether a probe is connected.

  4. 04

    Defective probe jack

    Part replacement

    The jack itself can fail internally due to moisture exposure or physical damage inside the cavity, creating a short circuit even when no probe is inserted. Replacing the jack assembly resolves this if the harness and probe both test correctly.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3-E3

What does F3-E3 mean on a KitchenAid microwave?
F3-E3 means the control board has detected a short in the meat probe circuit. The board reads a resistance value from the probe or its wiring that is far below the expected range, so it flags the fault and stops the cooking program. The most common source is a failed probe, but the probe jack or wiring harness can also cause this code.
How do I fix F3-E3 on a KitchenAid microwave?
Start by disconnecting the meat probe and measuring its resistance with a multimeter. A good probe reads approximately 78k ohms at 60°F or 37k ohms at 90°F. If resistance is out of range, replace the probe. If the probe tests correctly, check that it seats firmly in the probe jack inside the oven cavity, then inspect the wiring harness connection at the back of the oven for damage or loose terminals. Harness work inside the rear of the unit requires disassembly and should be handled by a technician if you are not comfortable working around high-voltage components.
Can I still use my KitchenAid microwave when F3-E3 is showing?
In most cases the microwave will not complete a probe-controlled cook cycle while F3-E3 is active. Standard microwave functions may still operate if you disconnect the meat probe and clear the error, but continuing to use the appliance with a known fault in the probe circuit is not advisable until the root cause is identified. A shorted harness inside the oven is a potential safety concern and should be inspected before further use.
How much does it cost to fix a KitchenAid microwave F3-E3 error?
A replacement KitchenAid meat probe typically costs $20-$50 for the part, and replacing it yourself requires no disassembly. If the probe jack or wiring harness is the problem, parts range from $15-$60, but labor from an appliance technician adds $75-$150 or more depending on your area. Diagnosing the fault yourself with a multimeter before calling a technician can save the cost of a diagnostic service call.
Will unplugging my KitchenAid microwave clear the F3-E3 error code?
Power cycling the microwave may temporarily clear the display, but F3-E3 will return as soon as the control board reads the probe circuit again if the underlying fault is still present. Removing the meat probe before powering the unit back on can help determine whether the probe itself is causing the short. A permanent fix requires resolving the faulty component, whether that is the probe, the jack, or the wiring harness.

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