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Error code reference

Maytag Oven Error Code F-3

Suspect an open oven sensor or oven sensor wiring. On Type B clock

Maytag codesMaytag oven codes

Suspect an open oven sensor or oven sensor wiring. On Type B clock: shorted sensor circuit.

First step from the service manual

Press the CANCEL button. If the fault code reappears, disconnect power and check oven sensor continuity and wiring.

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

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What F-3 means on a Maytag oven

The F-3 error code on a Maytag oven indicates a problem with the oven temperature sensor circuit. On most configurations, this code points to an open circuit in the oven sensor or its wiring, meaning the control board is receiving no valid resistance signal from the sensor. The oven temperature sensor is a resistive temperature device (RTD) that changes resistance as oven temperature changes, allowing the control board to regulate heat accurately. When the circuit is open, the board cannot read temperature and triggers F-3 to prevent unsafe operation.

On Type B clock configurations, the meaning reverses: F-3 signals a shorted sensor circuit rather than an open one. A shorted sensor causes the resistance to drop abnormally low, which the control board also interprets as a fault. Whether the failure is an open or short depends on how the sensor or wiring has degraded, and identifying your clock type is an important first step before proceeding with diagnosis.

Common triggers include a physically damaged sensor probe, corroded or loose wiring connections at the sensor or control board, or a break in the wiring harness caused by heat exposure over time. The sensor itself is located inside the oven cavity, typically mounted at the upper rear wall, and is exposed to repeated high-temperature cycling that can eventually cause it to fail. Checking continuity across the sensor and inspecting the wiring for visible damage or poor connections are the primary diagnostic steps after clearing the fault with the CANCEL button.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F-3

  1. 01

    Failed oven temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The sensor probe itself has developed an open circuit internally, meaning it no longer passes a measurable resistance signal to the control board. This is the most frequent cause and can be confirmed by disconnecting the sensor and measuring continuity or resistance across its terminals with a multimeter.

  2. 02

    Broken or damaged sensor wiring

    Part replacement

    The wiring harness connecting the sensor to the control board can crack, burn, or break after prolonged heat exposure inside the oven cavity. Inspect the full length of the wiring for any visible damage, melting, or breaks, and check for continuity through each wire.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    Connectors at the sensor plug or at the control board can loosen or corrode over time, creating an intermittent or fully open circuit. Disconnecting and reseating the connectors while inspecting for corrosion or burned contacts can resolve this without replacing components.

  4. 04

    Shorted sensor circuit (Type B clock only)

    Part replacement

    On ovens equipped with a Type B clock, F-3 indicates the sensor circuit is shorted rather than open. A shorted sensor reads an abnormally low resistance value, which the board flags as a fault. Resistance measurement across the sensor terminals will reveal a reading well below the expected range.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring test within normal specifications, the control board itself may be misreading the sensor signal due to internal component failure. This is the least likely cause and should only be considered after the sensor and wiring have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F-3

What does F-3 mean on a Maytag oven?
F-3 on a Maytag oven signals a fault in the oven temperature sensor circuit. On most models, it means the sensor or its wiring has an open circuit, so the control board cannot read oven temperature. On ovens with a Type B clock, the code instead indicates a shorted sensor circuit. In either case, the oven stops operating normally to prevent unsafe temperature conditions.
Will pressing Cancel clear the F-3 error code?
Pressing the CANCEL button is the recommended first step and may temporarily clear the F-3 code. However, if the underlying sensor or wiring problem still exists, the code will reappear the next time the oven is used. A cleared code without a repair is only a temporary reset, not a fix.
Is it safe to use my Maytag oven when F-3 is displayed?
You should not attempt to use the oven while F-3 is active. The code means the control board cannot reliably monitor oven temperature, which removes the safety regulation that prevents overheating. Disconnect power and address the sensor or wiring issue before operating the appliance again.
How much does it cost to fix an F-3 error on a Maytag oven?
If only the oven temperature sensor needs replacement, parts typically range from $20 to $60 depending on the model, making it one of the more affordable oven repairs. If a professional technician is needed for diagnosis and installation, total costs including labor generally fall between $100 and $250. Wiring repairs may fall on the lower end of that range, while control board replacement would push costs higher.
How do I check the oven sensor to diagnose F-3?
After pressing CANCEL and disconnecting power to the oven, locate the temperature sensor probe mounted at the rear wall inside the oven cavity. Disconnect the sensor's wiring connector and use a multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms) across the two sensor terminals. An open circuit reading or a reading that falls far outside the expected resistance range for the sensor indicates the sensor has failed and needs replacement. Also inspect the wiring from the sensor back to the control board for any visible damage or loose connections.

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