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Error code reference

Maytag Microwave Error Code F3 E0

Main oven sensor open or shorted.

Maytag codesMaytag microwave codes

Main oven sensor open or shorted.

First step from the service manual

Disconnect connector P2 from GOC AM and measure resistance of the probe; test for 1000Ω-1200Ω at 77°F (25°C).

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

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What F3 E0 means on a Maytag microwave

The F3 E0 error code on a Maytag microwave indicates that the main oven temperature sensor (also called a cavity sensor or thermistor) has either an open circuit or a short circuit condition. This sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor that continuously monitors the internal cavity temperature and sends resistance-based readings to the control board. When the control detects that the sensor signal falls outside the expected range, it triggers F3 E0 and halts operation to prevent overheating or unsafe cooking conditions.

The first diagnostic step involves disconnecting connector P2 from the GOC AM board and measuring the sensor's resistance directly with a multimeter. A properly functioning sensor should read between 1000 ohms and 1200 ohms at 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). A reading of zero or near-zero ohms indicates a short circuit within the sensor or its wiring. An open circuit, indicated by an infinite resistance reading, means the sensor's internal element or its wire harness has failed completely.

Common causes include a physically damaged sensor probe, degraded wiring in the harness running from the sensor to the control board, and corrosion or looseness at the P2 connector itself. Because the sensor is located inside the microwave cavity area and exposed to heat and moisture cycles over time, its resistance characteristics can drift or the element can fail outright. Connector integrity should always be inspected before replacing the sensor, as a corroded or intermittently connected terminal can produce the same fault signal as a failed probe.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3 E0

  1. 01

    Failed oven temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor element inside the sensor probe has failed, causing an open or shorted resistance reading outside the 1000 to 1200 ohm range at room temperature. This is the most frequent cause and is confirmed by measuring resistance directly at the sensor after disconnecting connector P2.

  2. 02

    Loose or corroded P2 connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector P2 at the GOC AM board can develop corrosion or loose terminals over time, interrupting the signal from the sensor. Inspect the connector for burnt contacts, corrosion, or terminal pins that are not fully seated before condemning the sensor itself.

  3. 03

    Damaged sensor wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wire harness running between the sensor probe and the control board can become pinched, chafed, or broken, especially near sharp chassis edges or areas exposed to heat. A visual inspection of the full harness length and a continuity test on each wire can confirm this cause.

  4. 04

    Short circuit in sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    If two conductors in the sensor harness contact each other due to damaged insulation, the control board reads a near-zero resistance and triggers the shorted sensor fault. This typically shows up as a resistance reading well below the 1000 ohm threshold when measured at P2.

  5. 05

    Faulty GOC AM control board

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the control board itself may misinterpret a valid sensor signal due to a failed input circuit on the board. This should only be considered after the sensor, harness, and connector have all been tested and confirmed to be within spec.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3 E0

What does F3 E0 mean on a Maytag microwave?
F3 E0 indicates that the main oven cavity temperature sensor has been detected as either open (broken circuit) or shorted (zero resistance). The control board monitors this sensor continuously and shuts down operation when the signal falls outside the acceptable range. The sensor should read between 1000 and 1200 ohms at room temperature (77 degrees Fahrenheit) when tested at connector P2.
Can I fix the F3 E0 error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform the initial diagnosis by disconnecting connector P2 from the GOC AM board and measuring sensor resistance with a multimeter. If the sensor reads outside the 1000 to 1200 ohm range, replacing the sensor is a straightforward repair. However, working inside a microwave involves capacitors that can retain a lethal charge even when unplugged, so the high-voltage capacitor must be discharged safely before any internal access.
Is it safe to use my Maytag microwave while the F3 E0 code is active?
No. The F3 E0 code means the control board cannot accurately monitor the cavity temperature, which removes a key safety safeguard. Using the microwave in this condition risks undetected overheating. The unit should remain out of service until the sensor or wiring issue is resolved.
Will resetting the microwave clear the F3 E0 error?
Unplugging the microwave for a few minutes may temporarily clear the code, but it will return as soon as the control board performs its sensor check again. Because F3 E0 reflects a real hardware fault (an out-of-range resistance reading), the underlying sensor or wiring problem must be repaired before the error will stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair a Maytag microwave F3 E0 error?
If the temperature sensor probe is the cause, replacement sensor parts typically range from $20 to $60 depending on the specific model. If professional labor is required, total repair costs including diagnosis and parts generally fall in the $100 to $250 range. In cases where the GOC AM control board is the source of the fault, parts and labor costs can be higher, and it is worth comparing repair cost against replacement cost for older units.

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