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ErrBase

Frigidaire Dishwasher F3 Error Code: High Limit Thermostat Fault

Quick Answer

F3 on a Frigidaire dishwasher means the high-limit thermostat has tripped. This thermostat is a one-shot thermal protection device - once it trips from an overheat event, it must be replaced even if the underlying cause was resolved. A tripped thermostat will read OL (open circuit) on a multimeter.

F3 on a Frigidaire dishwasher means the high-limit thermostat has tripped. This thermostat is a one-shot thermal protection device - once it trips from an overheat event, it must be replaced even if the underlying cause was resolved. A tripped thermostat will read OL (open circuit) on a multimeter. A healthy thermostat reads continuity (near 0 ohms). The thermostat is part 154594901 and costs $10-18. Always check whether the heating element also failed, as a shorted heater element is the most common cause of a thermostat tripping.

FrigidaireDishwasherSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate84% DIY Success
Time to Fix
30–75 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $18
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Flathead screwdriver

What Does the F3 Code Mean?

F3 means the high-limit thermostat tripped or failed. Test it for continuity - a tripped thermostat reads OL. Replace 154594901 ($10-18). Also test the heating element for a shorted winding that may have caused the overheat.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

High-limit thermostat tripped from a genuine overheat event40%
Heating element shorted (causing overheat that tripped the thermostat)24%
Control board heater relay stuck closed causing continuous heating22%
High-limit thermostat failed open circuit from age14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F3 displayed during or after a high-temperature cycle
  • Dishwasher stops mid-cycle with F3 code
  • Excessive steam or heat noticed during cycle before code
  • Dishes may be very hot when cycle stops

Can you reset a Frigidaire dishwasher to clear the F3 code?

A tripped high-limit thermostat cannot be reset - it must be replaced. After replacing the thermostat (and the heating element if it was shorted), unplug for 60 seconds and restart. Run a full normal cycle to confirm F3 does not return before running a high-temp or sanitize cycle.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterFlathead screwdriverTorx T20 screwdriver

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Allow the dishwasher to cool completely

Allow the dishwasher to cool completely - at least 30 minutes after the F3 appeared. Disconnect power. Locate the high-limit thermostat on the heater circuit (typically mounted near the heating element on the sump area). Disconnect the thermostat wiring and test across its terminals with a multimeter set to continuity or low ohms.

2

With power still disconnected

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
High-Limit Thermostat154594901 · $10–$18

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $14 (Parts) vs $600 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Frigidaire F3 high-limit thermostat be reset without replacing it?
No. The Frigidaire high-limit thermostat is a one-shot thermal fuse-type device. Once it trips from an overheat event, the internal contact opens permanently and cannot be reset or restored. It must be replaced. Testing it with a multimeter confirms whether it has tripped - OL means it needs replacement.
If I just replace the thermostat, will F3 come back?
If the underlying cause was a shorted heating element that generated excessive heat, replacing only the thermostat will result in the new thermostat tripping again quickly. Always test the heating element for a short when F3 appears - replace both parts if the element tests shorted.

Related Frigidaire Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: I20Frigidaire Dishwasher I20 Error Code: Drain FaultCode: E20Frigidaire Dishwasher E20 Error Code: Pump FaultCode: I30Frigidaire Dishwasher I30 Error Code: Leak Detected

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Frigidaire shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience F3 Errors

This repair applies to most Frigidaire dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

FFCD2413US, FFCD2418US, FGID2479SF, FGID2466QB, FFID2426TS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026