How to clear an F3 error from an electric Frigidaire range

If you’re standing in your kitchen trying to prepare a meal and an F3 error code shows up on your Frigidaire electric range, don’t worry. You don’t need to be an expert to fix your range.

Let’s break down the troubleshooting process so you can get your range working for you again.

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

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 does the F3 error mean?

If you’re seeing an F3 error code, it means there’s a communication problem with the temperature sensor and electronic control board (ECB).

The temperature sensor is a thermistor probe that provides temperature feedback from the oven to the control board. The control board is like the brain of the range since it uses the sensor readings to adjust the heat as needed.

Since the control board depends on accurate resistance signals from the sensor, an F3 error means there’s a disconnect between the two parts. This can prevent the oven from heating or cause the oven to overheat, in which case the range may throw the F3 code to shut down the oven to decrease safety risks.

READ MORE: Reduce Your Energy Bill with These 6 Easy Home Tasks

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.
• 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: 6 electric range safety tips

How to resolve the F3 error message

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the F3 fault code on your electric Frigidaire range.

Step 1: Inspect the wire harness

1. Unplug the range or flip the circuit breaker off.
2. Disconnect the wire harness from both the sensor and control board.
3. Look over the harness for any damage like frayed wires or burns. If you see any damage, replace the harness.
4. Set a multimeter to measure continuity.
5. Use the meter probes to check for continuity on each wire, end-to-end. The meter should make a beeping sound if there’s continuity (closed circuit).

Replace the wire harness if it’s shorted, severed, or has any pinched conductors.

If the harness looks good, move on to the next step.

READ MORE: How to prevent appliance fire hazards

Step 2: Check the temperature sensor

1. Set a multimeter to test for resistance (Ω).
2. Place the meter probes on the sensor connector.
3. Check the meter reading. You should typically see a reading between 1000 and 1100 Ohms. You can refer to the technical sheet to see the acceptable range for your specific range model.

If the sensor reading is out of the acceptable range, then it’s bad and needs to be replaced.

If the sensor test result is OK, move on to the next step.

READ MORE: 7 Space-Saving Tips For Small Kitchens

Step 3: Test at the control board

1. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
2. Use the multimeter probes to test for resistance between pins 1 and 2 on the plug for the wire harness.
3. Check the meter reading. You should get a reading between 1000 and 1100 Ohms. Refer to your range’s technical sheet to see the acceptable resistance range for your specific model.

If the resistance at the board is too low or too high but the temperature sensor is good, then there’s a wiring issue.

If the resistance reading at the board is good and the temperature sensor is good, then you’ll need to replace the board.

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 Frigidaire electric 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.

Don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!