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ErrBase

GE Oven F3 Error Code: Open Temperature Sensor Fix

Quick Answer

GE uses an RTD probe rated at 1080 ohms at room temperature - this spec is the critical detail that separates GE F3 from the same fault on other brands. Frigidaire uses a 1100-ohm RTD and Samsung uses a 10K NTC thermistor, so ordering the wrong replacement sensor is the most common parts mistake when fixing GE F3.

GE uses an RTD probe rated at 1080 ohms at room temperature - this spec is the critical detail that separates GE F3 from the same fault on other brands. Frigidaire uses a 1100-ohm RTD and Samsung uses a 10K NTC thermistor, so ordering the wrong replacement sensor is the most common parts mistake when fixing GE F3. The F3 code is the open-circuit counterpart to F20 (shorted sensor): F3 means infinite or very high resistance while F20 means near-zero resistance. On GE Advantium microwave-oven combos, F3 points to a different sensor location behind the cavity wall and requires a different disassembly approach than standard GE ranges. The physical RTD probe is a small metal rod that screws into the rear wall of the oven cavity - the most common failure mode is the sensing element cracking internally after years of heat cycling, not the wiring. Replacing the probe alone resolves GE F3 in approximately 80% of cases.

GeOvenSeverity: high82% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–45 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$20 – $280
Tools Needed
Multimeter (ohm mode), Phillips screwdriver

What Does the F3 Code Mean?

The RTD temperature sensor circuit shows an open (broken) connection. Either the probe itself has failed or the two-wire harness between the probe and control board has a break.

Most Likely Causes

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

RTD sensor probe failed internally (sensing element cracked or open)40%
Two-wire harness broken between probe and control board24%
Control board sensor input circuit failed (rare)22%
Sensor connector pulled loose from control board14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F3 displayed on control panel
  • Oven will not heat at all
  • Error appears immediately when oven is turned on
  • F3 appears even when oven is completely cold

Can you reset a Ge oven to clear the F3 code?

Press Clear/Off to dismiss F3. Cut breaker power for 30 seconds. The code will return immediately if the sensor is not yet replaced - F3 is an active hardware fault and cannot be permanently cleared by a software reset alone.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Multimeter (ohm mode)Phillips screwdriverNut driver (1/4")Flashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Cut power at the breaker

Cut power at the breaker. Remove the rear access panel (2 screws) on the back of the range. Locate the RTD sensor probe on the rear wall of the oven cavity - it is a thin metal rod approximately 3 inches long.

2

Disconnect the two-pin connector from the sensor probe

3

If the probe tests good

4

Install the new probe by threading it into the mounting hole in

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
GE RTD Temperature SensorWB21X5243 · $20–$40
GE Oven Control BoardWB27T11311 · $150–$280

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $150 (Parts) vs $2000 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the resistance spec for a GE oven temperature sensor?
A GE oven RTD probe should read approximately 1080 ohms at room temperature (around 70 degrees F). Readings between 900 and 1200 ohms are generally within acceptable range when the oven is cold. An OL (open loop) or very high resistance reading confirms the probe has failed and needs replacement.
Will a Frigidaire or Samsung temperature sensor work in a GE oven?
No. Frigidaire uses an RTD rated at 1100 ohms and Samsung uses a completely different NTC thermistor at 10K ohms. Installing a cross-brand sensor will cause ongoing temperature calibration errors even if the code initially clears. Use GE OEM part WB21X5243 or a direct equivalent.
Can GE oven F3 appear for any reason other than the temperature sensor?
Yes, in about 20% of cases. A broken wire in the two-pin harness between the sensor and the control board will also cause F3 because the board sees an open circuit. Always measure the resistance directly at the probe terminals first, then test the harness wires separately if the probe reads correctly.

Related Ge Oven Error Codes

Code: HUBGE Oven Error Codes: Complete F-Code and Fault ReferenceCode: F20GE Oven F20 Error Code: Shorted Temperature SensorCode: F2GE Oven F2 Error Code: Oven Temperature Runaway

Same Fix on Other Brands

Frigidaire F30:

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Ge 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 Ge ovens with this error code. Common model numbers include:

JB735SPSS, JB645RKSS, JGS760SELSS, JB750SJSS, JB255DJBB

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026