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Error code reference

KitchenAid Oven Error Code F103

Board or Heat Sink over temperature

KitchenAid codesKitchenAid oven codes

Board or Heat Sink over temperature – board or heat sink NTC reads over 100°C.

First step from the service manual

Switch OFF all loads except IPC power relay; manage cooling fan and door lock per dedicated paragraph.

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

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What F103 means on a KitchenAid oven

The F103 error code on a KitchenAid oven indicates that the control board or its associated heat sink has exceeded the maximum allowable temperature threshold of 100 degrees Celsius. This reading comes from an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor mounted on or near the control board or heat sink. An NTC thermistor decreases in resistance as temperature rises, and the control board continuously monitors this resistance value. When the calculated temperature climbs above 100°C, the board triggers the F103 fault to protect itself from thermal damage.

The primary concern with this fault is protecting the electronic control board from heat-induced failure. The control system responds by switching off all loads except the IPC (inverter power control) power relay, which remains active to support continued diagnostics and protective sequencing. The cooling fan and door lock are then managed according to a dedicated thermal protection routine, which is designed to reduce heat buildup and allow the system to recover safely.

Common causes of this fault include inadequate ventilation around the control board, a failed or obstructed cooling fan that is no longer moving air across the heat sink, a faulty NTC thermistor sending an inaccurate high-temperature reading, or an actual thermal event caused by a blocked oven vent or extended high-temperature operation. In some cases, the control board itself may have a defect causing incorrect sensor interpretation. Technicians should verify ambient conditions and cooling fan operation before condemning either the thermistor or the board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F103

  1. 01

    Failed or obstructed cooling fan

    Part replacement

    The cooling fan is responsible for moving air across the control board heat sink. If the fan motor has failed or the fan blade is blocked by debris, heat will accumulate rapidly and trigger F103.

  2. 02

    Blocked or restricted oven ventilation

    Wiring / connection

    If the oven's ventilation pathways are obstructed by grease buildup, improper installation clearances, or foreign objects, heat can back up into the control area and raise board temperatures above the 100°C limit.

  3. 03

    Faulty NTC thermistor on board or heat sink

    Part replacement

    A defective NTC thermistor may report a falsely elevated temperature even when the board is within a safe operating range. This can be checked by measuring the thermistor's resistance and comparing it against expected values for the ambient temperature.

  4. 04

    Control board internal fault

    Part replacement

    The control board itself may have a damaged component causing incorrect temperature readings or a failure in the thermal management circuit. If all external factors check out, the board may need to be replaced.

  5. 05

    Extended high-temperature oven operation

    Wiring / connection

    Running the oven at maximum temperatures for prolonged periods, such as during a self-clean cycle, can push board and heat sink temperatures toward the fault threshold, especially if cooling is even slightly compromised.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F103

What does F103 mean on a KitchenAid oven?
F103 means the control board or its heat sink has reached or exceeded 100 degrees Celsius, as measured by the NTC thermistor attached to that component. The oven triggers this code to protect its electronics from heat damage. When the fault occurs, the board shuts off most loads and activates thermal protection routines for the cooling fan and door lock.
Can I fix the F103 error myself, or do I need a technician?
Some causes of F103, such as blocked vents or inadequate clearance around the oven, can be addressed without a technician. However, diagnosing a failed cooling fan, a faulty NTC thermistor, or a defective control board requires electrical testing and component handling that is safer with professional experience. If basic ventilation checks do not resolve the fault, a qualified appliance technician should perform the diagnosis.
Is it safe to use my KitchenAid oven while the F103 code is showing?
No, you should not continue using the oven until the cause of F103 is identified and corrected. The fault indicates the control electronics are overheating, and continued operation could cause permanent damage to the control board or create a fire hazard. Leave the oven off and allow it to cool fully before any inspection.
Will resetting the oven clear the F103 error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the F103 code, but if the underlying cause such as a failed cooling fan or blocked ventilation is not resolved, the fault will return. Resetting without diagnosing the root cause can lead to repeated fault cycles and eventual control board failure. Always investigate the cause before relying on a reset.
How much does it cost to repair an F103 error on a KitchenAid oven?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. Replacing a cooling fan motor typically ranges from $75 to $200 including parts and labor. An NTC thermistor replacement is usually less expensive, often in the $50 to $150 range. If the control board itself needs replacement, costs can range from $200 to $500 or more depending on the specific model and labor rates in your area.

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