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Error code reference

Samsung Range Error Code C-20

Oven temperature sensor open circuit (resistance above 2950 ohms) or short circuit (resistance below 930…

Samsung codesSamsung range codes

Oven temperature sensor open circuit (resistance above 2950 ohms) or short circuit (resistance below 930 ohms).

First step from the service manual

Disconnect power, open rear cover, disconnect sensor harness from control module, measure resistance (should be 1080 ohms at room temperature). If abnormal, replace oven sensor.

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

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What C-20 means on a Samsung range

The C-20 error code on a Samsung range indicates a fault detected in the oven temperature sensor circuit. The control module continuously monitors the resistance of the oven temperature sensor (also called an RTD or resistance temperature detector) to calculate the actual oven cavity temperature. When the measured resistance falls outside the acceptable operating window, the control board triggers C-20 to prevent the oven from operating in an unsafe or uncontrolled state. Specifically, an open circuit condition is flagged when sensor resistance exceeds 2950 ohms, and a short circuit condition is flagged when resistance drops below 930 ohms.

At room temperature, a properly functioning oven temperature sensor should read approximately 1080 ohms. This resistance value rises predictably as oven temperature increases, allowing the control board to calculate precise temperature readings throughout the cooking cycle. When the sensor fails open, it usually means the sensing element inside the probe has broken, producing infinite or very high resistance. A short circuit failure, where resistance drops below 930 ohms, typically results from damaged insulation causing wires to contact each other or the sensor body itself to fail internally.

The sensor harness and its connectors are also common culprits. Corrosion, heat degradation, or a loose connection at either the sensor probe end or the control module connector can introduce enough resistance change to push the reading outside acceptable limits. Before condemning the sensor itself, disconnecting the harness at the control module and measuring resistance directly at the sensor leads will confirm whether the fault lies in the sensor or in the wiring between the sensor and the board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of C-20

  1. 01

    Failed oven temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The sensor probe itself has failed internally, producing resistance outside the 930 to 2950 ohm acceptable range. Measuring resistance directly at the sensor leads (should be approximately 1080 ohms at room temperature) will confirm this as the cause.

  2. 02

    Damaged or broken sensor wiring harness

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the temperature sensor and the control module can crack, fray, or short against the oven chassis due to heat exposure over time. Inspect the full length of the harness for visible damage, burn marks, or pinched sections.

  3. 03

    Corroded or loose harness connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector at the control module or at the sensor itself can develop corrosion or back out of its socket, interrupting the circuit. Disconnecting and firmly reseating the connector, then checking for corrosion on the pins, can resolve this without replacing parts.

  4. 04

    Control board failure

    Part replacement

    If the sensor measures correctly at approximately 1080 ohms and the harness shows no damage, the control module itself may be misreading the sensor signal due to a faulty input circuit on the board.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about C-20

What does C-20 mean on a Samsung range?
C-20 indicates the oven temperature sensor circuit has gone outside its acceptable resistance range. The control board expects a sensor resistance between 930 and 2950 ohms, with a nominal reading of approximately 1080 ohms at room temperature. When the reading falls outside that window due to an open or short circuit, the range displays C-20 and disables oven operation. The fault is most commonly caused by a defective sensor probe or a damaged wiring harness.
Can I fix the C-20 error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose and often repair C-20 by disconnecting power, removing the rear cover, disconnecting the sensor harness from the control module, and measuring sensor resistance with a multimeter. If the resistance is not near 1080 ohms at room temperature, the sensor needs to be replaced. The sensor is typically secured with two screws inside the oven cavity and is a straightforward replacement for someone comfortable working on appliances.
Is it safe to use my Samsung range while C-20 is displayed?
No. The C-20 error disables the oven because the control board cannot accurately monitor temperature without a functioning sensor. Running the oven in this condition risks uncontrolled overheating or unpredictable temperature behavior. The stovetop burners are generally unaffected by this error, but the oven should not be used until the sensor circuit is repaired.
Will resetting the range clear the C-20 error?
A power reset by unplugging the range or turning off the circuit breaker for a few minutes may temporarily clear the error code display, but C-20 will return as soon as the control board re-checks the sensor circuit. Because the fault is a hardware issue with the sensor or its wiring, it cannot be permanently resolved through a reset alone. The underlying sensor or wiring fault must be corrected.
How much does it cost to repair a Samsung range C-20 error?
If the oven temperature sensor is the cause, the part itself typically costs in the range of $20 to $60 depending on the specific Samsung model. Professional labor to diagnose and replace the sensor generally adds $100 to $200. If the control board turns out to be faulty instead of the sensor, board replacement can cost between $150 and $350 for the part alone, making professional diagnosis worthwhile before purchasing components.

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