How to clear the F2 error from a KitchenAid induction cooktop

Induction cooktops can provide faster, more energy-efficient cooking by using electromagnetic energy to directly heat cookware. But if the induction coils overheat, you might see an F2 error code appearing on the stovetop. This code lets you know that an internal temperature limit was exceeded and shuts down the unit as a safety precaution.

Thankfully, the F2 error is one you can troubleshoot yourself, even if it’s your first time working on an appliance. Let’s unpack how you can diagnose and resolve the F2 KitchenAid cooktop error so you can get your machine running correctly again.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your KitchenAid stovetop 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 causes the F2 error code?

An F2 error code usually indicates that a cooking coil has overheated past its maximum internal temperature threshold. There are several possible causes of induction coils overheating, including:

• Lack of sufficient cooling from a faulty or blocked internal fan
• Damaged or cracked induction coil windings
• Continuing to operate once the unit has already overheated without allowing it to fully cool down
• Loose or corroded wiring connections
• Defective temperature sensors
• A bad electronic control board
• Using cookware that’s incompatible with induction heating
• Blocked ventilation openings that prevent airflow

Read more: How to Clean a Glass Stovetop

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.
• 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.

Read more: 6 Electric Stove Safety Tips

How to troubleshoot the F2 error message

Follow these steps to diagnose the underlying overheating issue that’s causing an F2 error so you can fix your KitchenAid induction cooktop.

Step 1: Check the internal cooling fan

A faulty cooling fan is the most common cause of F2 overheating errors.

1. Unplug the cooktop from the outlet.
2. Make sure the intake and exhaust vents underneath the cooktop are free of dust buildup or debris. Blocked airflow can lead to overheating even with a working fan.
3. Inspect the fan blade. Make sure it can spin freely. Remove any obstructions and clean it as needed.
4. Check the fan wiring to make sure it’s intact and undamaged.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the cooktop needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Set a multimeter to Volts AC.
2. Use the meter probes to check if the fan is receiving the correct voltage on the electronic board connector pins.

If the fan isn’t damaged or blocked and gets power but doesn’t run, then it’s faulty and needs to be replaced.

If everything looks good so far, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Inspect the induction coil

Examine the overheated induction coil windings for any signs of damage. Check for:

• Cracks or separated enamel insulation that exposes wiring.
• Sections of coil windings that are burned or discolored from overheating.
• Loose fragmented windings that indicate shorts between turns.

Any physical coil damage will require the coil to be replaced. Don’t ever attempt to repair the coil itself.

If the coil looks good, continue troubleshooting.

Step 3: Test the induction coil

1. Refer to the induction cooktop service diagram to find the coil power wires. They are typically labeled with callouts beginning with “COIL”. You can also disconnect the coil wires from the electronic board if needed to take measurements directly at the coil.
2. Set the multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
3. Touch the test leads to the coil power wires or terminals.
4. Check the meter reading. The induction coil windings should have very low resistance (typically less than 1 Ohm) to allow high current levels required for generating electromagnetic fields. Any resistance reading outside of normal specifications indicates damaged windings that require the coil to be replaced.

If you find a coil with excess resistance, it must be replaced. Never attempt to repair the coil windings themselves.

NOTE: Slight variations in coil resistance between burners on the same cooktop are normal.

If the test results are good, move on to the next step.

Step 4: Inspect wire connections

1. Look over the wiring connections at the electronic board.
2. Reseat any loose wire terminals that you find. If you find any burned, corroded, or broken connector pins or wiring, replace them as needed.

If everything so far looks and tests OK, replace the control board as a last resort to clear the F2 error.

Read more: Ceramic Cooktops: Keeping Your Cooktop Clean and Spotless

Looking for more?

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your KitchenAid cooktop 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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