Whirlpool Oven F3 Error Code: Open or Shorted Temperature Sensor
Quick Answer
On Whirlpool ranges with older-style displays that show only a single F number, F3 is the temperature sensor fault code - equivalent to F3 E0 on newer models. Whirlpool uses a glass-bead RTD probe that should measure 1080 to 1100 ohms at room temperature. The plain F3 code appears on WFE models manufactured before the alphanumeric display became standard, as well as on some WEC and WEE entry-level models.
On Whirlpool ranges with older-style displays that show only a single F number, F3 is the temperature sensor fault code - equivalent to F3 E0 on newer models. Whirlpool uses a glass-bead RTD probe that should measure 1080 to 1100 ohms at room temperature. The plain F3 code appears on WFE models manufactured before the alphanumeric display became standard, as well as on some WEC and WEE entry-level models. The diagnostic procedure is identical regardless of whether the display shows F3 or F3 E0: disconnect the sensor, measure resistance, and replace if out of spec. The sensor is the same part (W11045714) across both code generations.
What Does the F3 Code Mean?
F3 is the legacy single-digit version of F3 E0 - temperature sensor open or shorted. Test the probe (1080-1100 ohms at room temp) and replace if needed. Same repair as F3 E0.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Symptoms You May Notice
- F3 displayed while preheating or during baking
- Oven will not begin preheating - F3 appears immediately on startup
- Oven shuts off mid-bake with F3 on display
- Temperature reads incorrectly before F3 triggers
Can you reset a Whirlpool oven to clear the F3 code?
Press Cancel to clear F3 after replacing the sensor. Run a preheat cycle to verify the new sensor is reading correctly and the code does not return.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
Disconnect power at the breaker
Disconnect power at the breaker. Open the oven and locate the RTD sensor probe at the upper rear of the oven cavity - a thin metal tube held by two screws. Remove the screws, pull the sensor forward, and disconnect the wire harness from behind the back wall. Set a multimeter to ohms.
Measure resistance across both sensor leads at room temperature
If the sensor reads in spec
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 | OEM Number | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| RTD Temperature SensorW11045714 · $18–$35 | W11045714 | $18 – $35 |
Repair vs. Replace Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whirlpool oven F3 the same as F3 E0?
How much does it cost to fix a Whirlpool oven F3 code?
Related Whirlpool Oven Error Codes
Same Fix Works on These Brands
Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.
Models Known to Experience F3 Errors
This repair applies to most Whirlpool ovens with this error code. Common model numbers include:
WFE361LVQ, WFE515S0ES, WEC310S0FB, WEE510S0FW, WFE320M0AS, WFE381LVQ, WFE510S0AS
Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026