Kenmore Oven: not maintaining temperature

Possible Causes

Faulty temperature sensor (thermistor) or sensor drift

How to Identify: Use an oven thermometer to compare actual temperature vs setpoint; if readings differ significantly or fluctuate wildly, sensor likely faulty or misreading.

Part: Oven temperature sensor

DIY Solutions

Calibrate oven temperature on Kenmore models

Easy 10–20 minutes

Tools Needed: Oven thermometer

1. Place oven thermometer on middle rack and preheat to a set temperature.
2. Compare actual vs set temperature after stabilization.
3. Enter calibration mode (often by holding Bake button; check user manual) and adjust offset until actual matches setpoint.
4. Re-test to confirm improvement.

⚠️ Safety First: Do not work inside oven while hot.

Inspect and replace oven temperature sensor

Moderate 30–60 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Multimeter, Oven thermometer

1. Turn off power to oven at circuit breaker.
2. Remove sensor inside oven (typically at rear).
3. Measure resistance with multimeter; compare to spec (consult manual).
4. Replace sensor if out of spec and reinstall; test temperature accuracy after replacement.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before internal work.

Check and replace heating element

Moderate 30–60 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Multimeter

1. Power off oven.
2. Inspect bake element for visible damage.
3. Use multimeter to test for continuity.
4. Replace element if no continuity or visible damage.
5. Restore power and test temperature maintenance.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power first.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace oven door gasket/seal

Estimated Cost: $30 - $100

When to Call a Professional

Oven exhibits electrical control issues not resolved by calibration or sensor/element replacement

Visible damage to control board or wiring

Persistent temperature fluctuations after DIY fixes

Preventive Maintenance

• Check oven temperature accuracy with thermometer: Detect sensor drift and calibration issues early
  Frequency: every 6 months
• Clean and inspect door gasket: Heat loss that can cause temperature maintenance issues
  Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Oven not maintaining temperature?

Common causes include a faulty temperature sensor or heating element issues.

How do I fix Kenmore Oven not maintaining temperature myself?

You can calibrate the oven, inspect or replace the temperature sensor, or check the heating element.

How much does it cost to fix not maintaining temperature?

Professional repairs may cost between $150 and $400 for a control board replacement.

When should I call a technician for not maintaining temperature?

If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the repair seems complex, it's time to call a professional.

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Faulty bake element (2 mentions)
• Control board issues (1 mentions)
• Temperature probe malfunction (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Check the bake element for issues

   Success rate: 50.0%

Community Discussions

Oven not holding temperature

Check the bake element for issues as it may be faulty.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair