How to clear the FD error from a gas GE range

If you’re seeing an FD error code on your GE gas range, it usually indicates an issue with the meat probe that’s preventing the oven from working correctly. As frustrating as this error may be, you’ll be glad to know that you can implement some simple troubleshooting steps to get your oven back up and running.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your GE range while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What is the meat probe & how does it work in a GE range?

Some GE gas ranges (usually higher-end models) are equipped with a meat probe to gauge if the food is done. The probe is a thin metal rod that’s inserted into meat to act as a temperature sensor.

Inside the hollow probe is a thermistor – a sensor that changes resistance as temperature rises. The probe harness connects the thermistor to the oven control board. As the interior food temperature increases, the probe resistance decreases. The control board monitors this resistance range to determine when the target internal meat temperature is reached.

At room temperature and while disconnected from the oven circuitry, the probe thermistor will normally show a steady resistance. If the resistance reading falls outside this range when the probe is disconnected, it means the probe is defective.

Read more: Gas Range Smells Like Gas: Top 5 Reasons and Fixes

What causes the FD error code?

The FD code typically indicates that the oven control board is detecting improper resistance from the meat probe, leading to a “probe failure” error. Here are the potential causes of the FD code:

• Faulty meat probe: If the probe itself is damaged or defective, it will provide incorrect resistance readings outside the normal 30 kOhms to 50 kOhms range.
• Damaged probe wiring harness: Shorts, burned insulation, or broken wires in the harness prevent an accurate resistance measurement.
• Oven control board failure: If the meat probe and wiring test are normal, the oven control board may be the issue.

Read more: Gas Range Won’t Start: Top 5 Reasons and Fixes

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or its parts. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Shut off the gas supply to prevent any gas leaks while you work.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

How to troubleshoot the range

Now that we understand what causes an FD error, let’s walk through the full troubleshooting process:

Step 1: Test the meat probe

1. Make sure the range is unplugged from the power outlet and that the gas supply is shut off.
2. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
3. Touch the meter probes to the outer shaft and the tip of the connector.
4. Check the meter reading. At room temperature, the resistance should be 30-50 kOhms.

If the resistance is way out of the specified range, then the probe is likely defective and should be replaced.

If the probe passes testing, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Remove the lower oven door

GE ovens usually have hinge locks that secure the door when closed.

1. Open the oven door.
2. Lift the hinge locks on both sides until they stop. You may need a small flathead screwdriver to pry them up.
3. Slowly close the door around 45 degrees until it rests on the hinges without shutting completely.
4. Lift the door up and outwards to unhook the hinges and remove the door.

Step 3: Find & detach the meat probe outlet

1. Find the outlet for the meat probe wiring harness on the lower left interior oven wall.
2. Remove the two Phillip-head screws.
3. Detach the outlet from the wall.

Step 4: Inspect the probe wire harness

If the meat probe tested good, check the probe wire harness. Look for any insulation damage or any damaged or disconnected wires that could lead to shorts and other problems.

Inspect the entire path of the wiring, especially anywhere the harness connects to hot internal oven components. If you find any damage, then the harness must be replaced.

NOTE: GE doesn’t typically supply meat probe harnesses separately, so you’ll need to source a universal replacement harness that’s compatible with your unit.

If the probe and harness are OK but the FD code persists on your range, then you can replace the control board as a last resort.

Read more: 6 tips to safely cook with a gas range

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your gas GE range working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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