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Error code reference

Maytag Oven Error Code F3E3

Meat probe sensor shorted.

Meat probe sensor shorted.

First step from the service manual

Verify temperature reading on sensor in Diagnostic Mode; check STATUS SCREEN > OVEN SENSORS for dashes or Out of Range status.

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

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What F3E3 means on a Maytag oven

The F3E3 error code on a Maytag oven indicates that the meat probe sensor circuit has detected a short condition. The meat probe is a temperature-sensing device plugged into a dedicated port on the oven cavity wall, used to monitor the internal temperature of food during cooking. When the oven control board detects an abnormally low resistance signal from the probe circuit, it interprets this as a short and triggers the F3E3 fault to prevent inaccurate cooking results or potential control board damage.

A shorted meat probe circuit typically means the resistance in the sensor has dropped below the expected range, which the control board reads as a fault condition. This can stem from a damaged probe cable, a compromised probe tip, or moisture or debris in the probe receptacle. The oven control board continuously monitors the probe input, and any persistent out-of-range low resistance reading will lock in this fault code.

The first diagnostic step is to enter Diagnostic Mode and navigate to STATUS SCREEN > OVEN SENSORS to check the probe reading. A display showing dashes or an Out of Range status confirms the fault is active. Technicians should start by unplugging the meat probe from the oven port and re-checking the sensor reading, as disconnecting the probe will isolate whether the fault lies in the probe itself or in the internal wiring and control board circuit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3E3

  1. 01

    Damaged or faulty meat probe

    Part replacement

    The probe cable or tip may be physically damaged, kinked, or internally shorted from repeated use or improper storage. Inspect the probe wire and tip for visible damage, and test by disconnecting the probe to see if the fault clears.

  2. 02

    Moisture or debris in the probe receptacle

    Wiring / connection

    Liquid or food debris inside the probe port on the oven wall can create a short circuit in the connector. Inspect and clean the receptacle carefully and allow it to dry completely before retesting.

  3. 03

    Probe left plugged in during non-probe cooking

    Part replacement

    If the meat probe is plugged in but not in use during high-heat cooking cycles, the probe can overheat and sustain internal damage leading to a short. Always remove the probe when not actively using it.

  4. 04

    Damaged probe port or internal wiring

    Part replacement

    The receptacle on the oven cavity wall or the wiring harness connecting it to the control board may be shorted or corroded. After confirming the probe itself is not faulty, inspect the wiring harness and port for damage.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    If the probe and all associated wiring check out as undamaged and the fault persists, the oven control board itself may have a failed input circuit for the probe sensor. This is the least common cause and should be diagnosed only after ruling out all other components.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3E3

What does F3E3 mean on a Maytag oven?
F3E3 on a Maytag oven means the meat probe sensor circuit has detected a short condition. The control board is reading an out-of-range low resistance signal from the probe input, which causes it to disable the probe function and display this fault. The issue is most often traced to a damaged probe or a problem with the probe receptacle port.
Can I still use my Maytag oven with an F3E3 error code?
In most cases, the F3E3 fault only disables the meat probe function, and the oven's standard bake and broil operations may still work. However, you should unplug the meat probe from the oven port and avoid using the probe feature until the fault is diagnosed and resolved. Continuing to use a shorted probe circuit without inspection is not recommended.
Will resetting my Maytag oven clear the F3E3 code?
Resetting the oven by disconnecting power may temporarily clear the F3E3 code, but the fault will return if the underlying problem with the probe or its circuit is not corrected. Start by removing the meat probe from its port before restoring power. If the code does not return after the probe is removed, the probe itself is the likely source of the fault.
How much does it cost to fix an F3E3 error on a Maytag oven?
If the meat probe is the faulty component, replacement probes typically cost in the range of $20 to $60 depending on the model. If the probe receptacle wiring or the control board requires replacement, repair costs can range from $100 to $350 or more including parts and labor. Diagnosing the root cause before ordering parts will help avoid unnecessary expense.
How do I diagnose an F3E3 error on a Maytag oven?
Begin by entering Diagnostic Mode and checking STATUS SCREEN > OVEN SENSORS for a dashes or Out of Range reading on the probe sensor. Next, unplug the meat probe from the oven cavity port and observe whether the fault status changes. If unplugging the probe resolves the out-of-range reading, the probe itself is shorted and should be replaced. If the fault persists with the probe disconnected, inspect the probe receptacle and internal wiring harness for damage or moisture.

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