Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
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Gas Oven Igniter Replacement Guide

Quick Answer

To replace a gas oven igniter, turn off gas and power, remove the oven bottom panel, unscrew the old igniter, disconnect its wire harness, and install the new one. The whole job takes 20 to 45 minutes and the part costs $20 to $50.

A gas oven igniter that takes longer than 60 seconds to glow bright orange or never ignites the gas valve needs replacing. The job takes 20 to 45 minutes with a screwdriver, and the part runs $20 to $50 depending on whether your oven uses a flat or round style igniter.

GenericOvenSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate92% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–45 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$18 – $45
Tools Needed
Phillips screwdriver, Nut driver (1/4 inch)

What Does the HOW-TO Code Mean?

The igniter is the most commonly replaced part in a gas oven. It draws current through a bimetal safety valve, and when it weakens with age, it can no longer pull enough amperage to open the valve. You will notice longer preheat times at first, then eventually the oven stops heating altogether. Replacing it yourself saves $150 or more compared to a service call.

Most Likely Causes

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

Weak igniter (draws under 3.0 amps)70%
Cracked igniter element15%
Corroded wire connections at igniter10%
Gas valve solenoid failure5%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Oven takes 15+ minutes to preheat or never reaches temperature
  • Igniter glows dim orange or red instead of bright white-orange
  • Gas smell without ignition (turn off immediately)
  • Oven clicks on but flame never appears

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Phillips screwdriverNut driver (1/4 inch)Multimeter (optional, for amp draw test)Work gloves

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Turn off gas and disconnect power

Locate your gas shutoff valve behind or beside the oven and turn it to the off position. Then unplug the oven from the wall outlet or flip the breaker. Wait 5 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate before you start working. Never skip this step with a gas appliance.

2

Remove the oven bottom panel and access the igniter

3

Disconnect and remove the old igniter

4

Install new igniter and test

ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range2.5–5 amps
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

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
Flat Igniter (Rectangle Style)WB13K21 · $18–$35
Round Igniter (Norton Style)WB2X9998 · $20–$45

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $32 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my gas oven igniter is bad?
Watch the igniter when you turn the oven on. If it takes longer than 90 seconds to glow, glows dim red instead of bright orange, or never ignites the gas, it needs replacing. You can also test amp draw with a multimeter - a healthy igniter pulls 3.0 to 3.6 amps.
What is the difference between flat and round igniters?
Flat (rectangle) igniters are the newer style found in most ovens made after 2000. Round (Norton) igniters are older but still used in some models. They are not interchangeable, so check your oven model number before ordering.
Can I replace a gas oven igniter myself?
Yes. This is one of the most beginner-friendly gas appliance repairs. You only need a screwdriver and 20 to 45 minutes. The hardest part is identifying the correct igniter style for your model.

Models Known to Experience HOW-TO Errors

This repair applies to most Generic ovens with this error code. Common model numbers include:

JGB700SEJ, JGBS66REK, RGB526DET, DGEF3045RF, NX60A6511SS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 16, 2026