F3 E3 error on an electric Whirlpool double oven: How to fix


Samantha Bullington / Friday March 8, 2024


Is your oven interrupting your baking with an annoying F3 E3 error message? Don’t call a service technician just yet. This error code is one that you may be able to fix yourself with a few tips, tools and possibly a new part.

There are two parts to the F3 E3 error. The F3 likely indicates that there’s a problem with one of your oven’s internal temperature sensors. And the E3 code specifically points to your meat probe as the source of the problem.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool double oven, 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. Let’s get started!

Disclaimer: The error code information provided 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.

READ MORE: 8 DIY Safety Tips

What you need

  • Multimeter
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Flat-blade screwdriver

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

READ MORE: A Simple Guide to Oven Hot Spots

Keep safety first

  • 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 preventing any risk of electric shock.
  • If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
  • 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 clearly 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.
  • Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
  • Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

READ MORE: Why It’s Best to Choose OEM Over Aftermarket Parts for Appliance Repairs

How to troubleshoot the F3 E3 error code

Step 1 – Inspect the wiring

  1. Turn the oven off and disconnect it from the power source.
  2. Open the upper oven door.
  3. Remove the two flat-head screws from the bottom of the control panel frame.
  4. Remove the frame.
  5. Remove the two keypad retainer screws on the right side of the keypad.
  6. Remove the three screws from the front user interface board.
  7. Remove the user interface board from the inner frame.

You can now access the wiring for the board. Make sure the wiring isn’t damaged between P2 and the sensor.

If you find any loose plugs, reseat them. Replace any damaged wiring.

If the wiring checks out OK, you can test the meat probe.

READ MORE: My part is no longer available! What do I do now?

Step 2 – Test the meat probe

  1. The meat probe is usually located on the right side of the oven cavity.
  2. Set your multimeter to measure resistance in Ohms (Ω).
  3. Disconnect the sensor wiring from the P2 connector (refer to your unit’s tech sheet for specifics).
  4. Touch the multimeter probes to the corresponding wires/pins on the P2 connector. You will need to refer to your tech sheet for specific pins needed to check.
  5. Check the meter reading.

At room temperature, the meat probe should measure between 1,300-103,000 Ohms. If the reading is outside of this range, then you have a defective meat probe.

If the probe tested good, remove the meat probe from the probe jack and test again. The meat probe jack can accumulate food residue between the outer and inner contacts, which can cause a short. You should get an open or infinite meter reading if the jack is good.

If the meat probe and jack tested good, the last resort is to replace the control board.

READ MORE: 4 Simple Ways to Reduce Kitchen Waste

Step 3 – Replace the main control board

If the F3 E3 error code persists after all previous troubleshooting steps have been completed, the control board should be replaced as a last resort.

Step 4 – Test the oven

  1. After making any necessary repairs, replace all panels and other parts you removed. Make sure everything is in the correct position and secure.
  2. Plug the oven back in and turn it on.
  3. Run a short heat cycle to see if the error code returns.

READ MORE: Don’t Get Burned! 14 Quick and Easy Oven Safety Tips

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Whirlpool double 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. We can also help you troubleshoot common oven problems here.

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