Kenmore Oven: error code F30, shuts off

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore oven displays error code F30 and shuts off unexpectedly, it indicates a fault in the temperature sensing circuit. This issue often disrupts baking cycles and prevents the oven from maintaining the desired temperature. Understanding the causes can help you resolve this problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore ranges often use standard oven temperature sensors (RTD) similar to Frigidaire/Whirlpool; F30 typically indicates open sensor circuit and is documented across Kenmore repair guides.

Possible Causes

Faulty oven temperature sensor (open or out of spec)

How to Identify: Multimeter resistance reading significantly outside ~1050–1100Ω at room temperature; error reappears after reset and oven fails to heat properly.

Part: Oven temperature sensor (RTD probe)

Sensor wiring issues (broken, loose, corroded)

How to Identify: Visual signs of frayed, pinched or loose wiring; error persists despite good sensor resistance; continuity failure on wiring harness test.

Part: Wiring harness between sensor and control board

Electronic control board misinterpretation or failure

How to Identify: Sensor and wiring test within spec but error still triggers; visible signs of control board damage (burn marks; diagnostic mode indicates control fault.

Part: Electronic control board (EOC)

DIY Solutions

Power cycle reset

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Disconnect power by unplugging the oven or switching off breaker for ~5 minutes.
  2. Restore power and attempt to run a bake cycle to see if the F30 error clears.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure oven is off and cool before working near components if power cycling internal parts.

Test and replace temperature sensor

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter, Screwdriver set
  1. Turn off power at breaker before access.
  2. Remove oven access panel to locate the temperature sensor inside the oven cavity.
  3. Disconnect sensor and measure resistance at room temp; compare to expected ~1050Ω.
  4. If resistance is out of spec, replace sensor with OEM or compatible part.
  5. Reconnect and restore power to verify error clearance.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before handling electrical components.

Inspect and secure sensor wiring

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter, Screwdriver, Flashlight
  1. Disconnect power and access sensor wiring harness.
  2. Visually inspect for frays, loose connectors, or corrosion.
  3. Test continuity on wiring from sensor to control board.
  4. Repair or replace damaged wiring or connectors.
  5. Restore power and test oven operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure proper reconnection to avoid shorts.

Professional Repairs

Replace electronic control board

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Wiring harness professional repair or replacement

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

If you are not comfortable working with internal electrical components
If sensor tests normal and wiring appears intact but F30 persists
If control board appears damaged or error codes continue after DIY steps

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect oven sensor and wiring annually: Sensor drift, loose connections leading to error codes
    Frequency: annually
  • Keep oven cavity clean to avoid debris around sensor: Obstructions affecting sensor readings
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Oven error code F30, shuts off?
The F30 error typically arises from a faulty temperature sensor, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning electronic control board.
How do I fix Kenmore Oven error code F30, shuts off myself?
You can reset the power, test/replacement of the temperature sensor, or inspect the wiring for any visible damage.
How much does it cost to fix error code F30, shuts off?
Professional repairs for error code F30 can cost between $200 and $500+ for the control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for error code F30, shuts off?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable with electrical repairs, it's time to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty temperature sensor causing overheating
  • Defective control board leading to improper function
  • Overheating due to blocked ventilation or poor airflow

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the temperature sensor. To do this, unplug the oven, locate the temperature sensor inside the oven cavity, disconnect it, and replace it with a new one. Reconnect and test the oven.

  2. Inspect the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace it. This usually requires removing the back panel of the oven and disconnecting the old board before installing a new one.

  3. Ensure proper ventilation by checking and cleaning any obstructions around the oven's vents. This can involve removing the oven from its space and cleaning the area around the vents.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. My Kenmore oven gives an F30 error

Community Discussions

F30 error after being on for a while, shuts off and won't start until cooled down

potential need for a new control board

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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