Sharp Microwave Error Code EE16

EE16 means the control board has detected that both the oven thermistor (2) and the magnetron thermistor are reading as open circuits. These two sensors monitor internal cavity and magnetron temperatures to keep the unit operating safely. When both report open simultaneously, the microwave locks out to prevent uncontrolled heating. Diagnosis starts by testing the resistance of each thermistor per Procedure K.

No. The EE16 code indicates that temperature monitoring for both the oven cavity and the magnetron is non-functional. Operating the microwave without working thermal sensors risks overheating the magnetron tube, which can cause permanent damage or create a fire hazard. The unit should remain unplugged until the fault is diagnosed and repaired.

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Replacing one or both thermistors typically runs in the range of $50 to $150 including parts and labor, depending on your location and service provider. If the control board is at fault, costs can rise to the $150 to $350 range. It is worth comparing the repair estimate against the replacement cost of the unit before proceeding, especially on older models.

Some causes, such as a loose connector or a visually damaged wire, can be identified by a skilled DIYer with electrical knowledge. However, microwave interiors contain a high-voltage capacitor that can hold a lethal charge even after the unit is unplugged, so any internal inspection requires proper discharge of the capacitor before touching any components. Replacing a thermistor is a moderate-difficulty repair, but tracing wiring faults or diagnosing a control board issue typically benefits from professional service.

A power reset by unplugging the unit for several minutes may temporarily clear the displayed code, but the underlying fault in the thermistor circuit will still be present. The error will return as soon as the control board performs its sensor checks, typically on the next startup or cooking cycle. A reset is not a repair and should not be used as a workaround.