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Error code reference

Whirlpool Microwave Error Code E2

Temperature sensor opened.

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Temperature sensor opened.

First step from the service manual

Check sensor connection. Measure sensor resistance (1080 ohms at 70°F, add 2 ohms per degree).

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

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What E2 means on a Whirlpool microwave

The E2 error code on a Whirlpool microwave indicates that the temperature sensor circuit has opened, meaning the sensor is no longer completing a continuous electrical path back to the control board. This sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor responsible for monitoring cavity or component temperatures during operation. The control board continuously reads resistance values from this sensor to regulate cooking cycles and prevent overheating. When the circuit opens, the board loses all temperature feedback and triggers E2 to halt operation safely.

The expected resistance for this sensor is 1080 ohms at 70°F, with resistance decreasing by approximately 2 ohms per degree as temperature rises. An open circuit means the measured resistance will read infinite or out of range rather than tracking this predictable curve. Causes include a failed thermistor, a broken or disconnected wire harness, corroded connector terminals, or a sensor that has burned open due to an overheating event inside the cavity.

Diagnosis begins at the sensor connector. Disconnect the sensor harness and measure resistance across the sensor terminals using a digital multimeter. At room temperature near 70°F, a reading close to 1080 ohms confirms the sensor itself is intact and the fault is likely in the wiring or connector. A reading of OL (open loop) or infinite resistance points directly to a failed sensor that requires replacement. Check the harness routing for any pinched or melted sections, and inspect the connector pins for corrosion or pushed-back terminals before condemning the sensor.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E2

  1. 01

    Failed temperature sensor (thermistor)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself has burned out or broken internally, causing an open circuit. Measuring infinite resistance across the sensor terminals at room temperature confirms this failure.

  2. 02

    Disconnected or loose wiring harness

    Wiring / connection

    The connector attaching the sensor to the control board wiring may have come loose due to vibration or improper reassembly. Visually inspect and reseat the connector before measuring resistance.

  3. 03

    Damaged or broken wire

    Part replacement

    A wire in the sensor circuit may be pinched, melted from cavity heat, or broken internally. Check the harness routing for visible damage and test continuity along each wire.

  4. 04

    Corroded or damaged connector terminals

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture or heat can corrode the metal pins inside the sensor connector, increasing resistance to the point of an open circuit. Inspect the terminals closely for green oxidation or physical deformation.

  5. 05

    Control board failure

    Part replacement

    In rare cases, the sensor circuit on the control board itself may have failed, causing a false E2 reading even when the sensor and wiring measure correctly. This is a diagnosis of exclusion after the sensor and harness have been confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E2

What does E2 mean on a Whirlpool microwave?
E2 on a Whirlpool microwave means the temperature sensor circuit has opened and the control board is no longer receiving a valid resistance signal from the thermistor. The microwave shuts down to prevent unsafe operation without temperature feedback. The sensor should read approximately 1080 ohms at 70°F, and a reading of infinite resistance confirms the sensor or its circuit has failed.
Can I fix the E2 error on my Whirlpool microwave myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can handle basic diagnosis such as checking the sensor connector and measuring thermistor resistance with a multimeter. If the sensor itself has failed, replacing it involves accessing the interior of the microwave cabinet. Keep in mind that microwave capacitors can retain a lethal charge even when unplugged, so anyone working inside the unit should know how to safely discharge the high-voltage capacitor before touching any components.
Is it safe to use my Whirlpool microwave while the E2 code is showing?
No, you should not use the microwave while E2 is active. The temperature sensor is a safety component, and operating without it means the control board cannot detect overheating conditions. The microwave will typically prevent normal operation when this code is present, and attempting to bypass that lockout creates a fire and safety risk.
How much does it cost to fix a Whirlpool microwave E2 error?
If the repair is only a loose connector, there may be no parts cost at all. A replacement temperature sensor typically costs in the range of $15 to $50 depending on the model. If professional service is needed, labor costs generally bring the total repair estimate to somewhere between $100 and $200, though costs vary by region and service provider.
Will resetting my Whirlpool microwave clear the E2 error code?
Unplugging the microwave for a minute and restoring power may temporarily clear the display, but the E2 code will return as soon as the control board checks the sensor circuit again and finds it open. A reset does not fix the underlying fault. The sensor circuit must be repaired or the failed component replaced before the error will stay cleared.

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