How to troubleshoot an F3E0 or F3E1 error on a Whirlpool oven

If you’re encountering an F3E0 error on a Whirlpool range, it likely indicates a problem with the main oven sensor, which may be open or shorted. It can appear as both F3E0 and F3E1.

Let’s break down the steps so you can troubleshoot the F3E0 / F3E1 Whirlpool oven error code.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool oven 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.

Disclaimer: The error code 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 the F3E0 / F3E1 error means

Sensor defects or wiring issues can trigger the board to display an F3E0 / F3E1 error code when it’s trying to read the oven cavity temperature.

The oven sensor contains an aluminum resistive temperature device (RTD) element that changes resistance as it heats up. The control board monitors how this sensor resistance changes to determine the oven cavity temperature.

A typical sensor temperature reading should measure around 1100 Ohms at room temperature. But if the sensor RTD element cracks or breaks, it will result in an open circuit. This will cause the board to read an extremely high resistance.

Shorted or corroded wiring connections can also cause out-of-range resistance readings. Shorts between the sensor element and casing may also lead to false, low-resistance measurements.

Read more: A Simple Guide to Oven Hot Spots

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. 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.
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any 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.
• 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.

Read more: A complete guide to oven rack placement for every type of baked good

How to troubleshoot an F3E0 or F3E1 error

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the F3E0 / F3E1 error on your Whirlpool oven.

Enter diagnostic mode

The first step is to enter diagnostic mode on the range’s main control panel.

1. Press Cancel/Off > Cancel/Off > Start on the control panel within 5 seconds. The display will show “TEST ON” with the oven cavity temperature and door position.
2. Press the Up arrow, +, or 3 on the keypad to scroll through to the “AUTO TEST” mode.
3. Follow the prompts to run the auto test and see if any failure codes are displayed. The F3E0 error should be shown if the main sensor is defective.

Step 1: Power cycle the range

A control board reset may clear any false or temporary errors.

1. Unplug the range.
2. Let the range remain disconnected from power for at least 2-3 minutes.
3. Reconnect the range to the power source.
4. Start a bake cycle and see if the error code returns.

If the error code persists, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Check the sensor connections

1. Unplug the range.
2. Inspect all the oven sensor connections on the wiring harness and control board. Check for any loose, damaged, or corroded connections. If you see any damage, replace the affected parts.
3. If everything looks good so far, disconnect the sensor from the wiring harness.
4. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
5. Use the multimeter probes to check the resistance between the sensor connector pins.
6. Check the meter reading. Well-functioning oven sensors will read between 1080-1100 Ohms at room temperature.
7. Check the resistance from the sensor connector pins to the sensor casing to see if there are any shorts.

If you get resistance outside the normal range or find a short, the sensor will need to be replaced.

If the sensor connections look and test OK, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Check the wiring

If the oven temperature sensor tests within the proper resistance range, the next step is to thoroughly inspect the wiring between the sensor and the control board:

1. Look over the wiring between the sensor and the control board. Check for any damage or cuts in the insulation.
2. Make sure the connections at the control board and sensor are fully inserted and locked into place.
3. Check the wire connections for any signs of overheating or corrosion.
4. Gently wiggle the connections to check for internal damage or broken wire strands.
5. Set your multimeter to continuity mode.
6. Use the meter probes to check the wiring for continuity, end-to-end. The meter should make a beeping sound if there’s continuity.

If you don’t get continuity or find any damage, replace the oven temperature sensor wiring.

If you’ve made it this far and everything looks and tests OK, replace the control board as a last resort.

Read more: How To Calibrate Your Oven (The Easy Way!)

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Whirlpool oven 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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