How to Fix Whirlpool Range F3 Error Code

If you're trying to bake some delicious treats in your Whirlpool range and an F3 error code pops up, it means the temperature sensor within the oven has shorted or is broken, or there's an issue with the wiring or control board of the range itself. An F3 code may also appear with an 'E' code on some models, which is denoted with a number 1–4. It is important to solve this issue quickly, as operating with a bad temperature sensor or control board can become a safety hazard. The first thing you can do to resolve this error code is to do a simple power reset. But if the code reappears, you'll need to look at replacing one of the previously mentioned components. But don't worry, we have the step-by-step repair guide you need to fix your Whirlpool range so you can get back to cooking and baking!

What Does Whirlpool Range Error Code F3 Mean?

The F3 error code signifies an issue with the temperature sensor(s) within the oven, however, the internal wiring and control board are also possible causes for this error. With some range models, the oven door will lock if the oven senses its temperature is exceeding what is safe for operation so as to prevent a safety hazard, or if the oven believes it's entering a 'Self Clean' mode. Even if the internal temperature isn't as dangerously high as the oven senses, the door can still lock if the temperature sensor is failing and inaccurately detecting the temperature. If this happens, you will need to reset the range or begin the repair process.

As mentioned above, you may simply get an 'F3' error code, or with some Whirlpool range models you may see an 'F3' code with an accompanying 'E' code. The following is a list of the accompanying 'E' codes and what they mean:

• E0, E1: This code signifies an issue with the oven temperature sensor, its wiring, and/or the control board.
• E2: This code means there's a problem with the oven temperature sensor, the warming drawer sensor, and/or the wiring for them both.
• E3: This code indicates an issue with the oven temperature sensor, or its wiring.
• E4: This code is indicating the need for the meat temperature sensor probe to be securely inserted into its receptacle.

How to Reset a Whirlpool Range to Solve an F3 Error

The first and most simple solution to a Whirlpool range F3 error code is to simply reset the range. This can be done by either disconnecting the power cord from the wall outlet, or turning the range's breaker off and then on. After the range has been reset, it's important to set the oven to bake for 10 minutes and monitor it to check whether the F3 error code returns. Place a thermometer within the oven to test its temperature as well, to test whether it accurately senses the correct temperature. If the F3 error code returns and if the internal temperature is too high or too low, your issue lies with either the temperature sensor or the control board.

How to Fix or Replace a Whirlpool Range Temperature Sensor to Solve an F3 Error

If after resetting your Whirlpool range you are still receiving an F3 error code, the temperature sensor is the simplest and most cost-efficient part you can replace to fix the issue outright. Depending on your Whirlpool range model, you may have multiple sensors to replace, however, finding the right OEM temperature sensor for your Whirlpool range is simple with PartSelect's huge part inventory, and replacing it is even easier with the following guide:

1. Ensure the range is disconnected from the wall outlet.
2. Pull the range out from the wall.
3. Unthread and disconnect the back panel of the range.
4. Locate the sensor and disconnect its wire harness.
5. At this point, you can inspect the wiring for any visible issues, and to test the sensor with a multimeter (set to Ohms) to check its continuity.
6. If the sensor's Ohm reading is on or around 1100 Ohms, it's fine. However, if it's significantly lower or not returning any reading, it needs replacing.
7. If the sensor's reading comes back normal, unthread the sensor, remove it, and clean it thoroughly, before reinstalling it and testing your oven once more.
8. If the sensor is bad, unthread its securing screws and remove it.
9. Connect the new sensor's wire harness and install into the appropriate port, and secure it with the proper mounting screws.
10. Reinstall the back panel of the range and install the range back into its appropriate position.
11. Set the oven to bake for 10 minutes and if the F3 error code reappears, replace its control board.

The following is a general video guide to provide assistance for this repair.

How to Replace a Whirlpool Range Control Board to Fix an F3 Error

If your Whirlpool range's temperature sensor has been replaced and the F3 error code reappears, the issue lies solely with the control board of the range. This repair can be more difficult than replacing the temperature sensor, but is still quite doable for any repair person. The only requirements to do this repair are an OEM Whirlpool range control board to replace your current one, and a step-by-step guide like the following one:

1. Disconnect the range from the wall outlet.
2. Remove the range from its position against the wall.
3. Disconnect the back panel of the range by unthreading any securing screws.
4. Locate the control board and disconnect all wire harnesses connected to it. Note: Before completing this step, ensure you take pictures or notes of the control board's wiring to make the future reinstallation easier.
5. Now, unthread the old control board's securing screws.
6. With the old control board unthreaded and disconnected, remove it from the range.
7. Install the new control board and connect its wire harnesses.
8. Secure the control board with its mounting screws.
9. Reconnect the back panel of the range, and slide the range back into place.
10. Set the oven to bake for 10 minutes to ensure the success of the installation process.

The following video is a general guide for replacing control boards on Whirlpool ranges.

What if the F3 Code Reappears on Your Whirlpool Range?

If you're still finding your Whirlpool range is receiving an F3 error, even after replacing its temperature sensor and control board, your next best option is to contact your local certified repair technician for a diagnosis of your range. However, the quickest and most cost efficient solution at that point is to replace your range in its entirety, so you can get a working range as quickly as possible.

For all other appliance repair and home improvement guides, be sure to check out our other PartSelect blogs. And for any and all repairs you may need to do for the appliances in and outside of your home, check out our wide-range of OEM parts on PartSelect.com!