GE F350 Error: Oven Temperature Sensor (RTD) Open Circuit
Diagnose GE range code F350 (open oven sensor).
Open oven temperature sensor circuit (formerly F3). The electronic range control (ERC) detects infinite electrical resistance across the resistance temperature detector (RTD) probe.
Probable Causes
Platinum RTD sensor wire broke internally inside the stainless temperature probe sheath.
High heat during self-cleaning cycle melted or oxidized sensor harness terminal block.
Loose quick-disconnect plug behind the oven cavity insulation.
Diagnostic & Testing Steps
- •Beeping alarm sounds and display flashes F350 error code.
- •Oven cancels bake and broil operations immediately for safety.
- •Control panel locks out heating elements; cooling fan runs continuously.
Tools & Equipment Required
- ✓Digital Multimeter (Resistance Mode)Measure oven temperature sensor RTD resistance: 1080 - 1100 Ω at room temperature (70°F).
- ✓1/4-inch Hex Head Nut DriverRemove two mounting screws securing sensor probe to upper rear oven cavity.
- ✓Needle-Nose PliersGently unplug 2-wire quick disconnect plug without dropping harness into back wall.
- ✓FlashlightInspect sensor wire insulation for heat hardening or metal chassis chafing.
Fast Reset Sequence: Universal 5-Minute Power Isolation Reset
Before unmounting panels or beginning diagnostic procedures, attempt this manufacturer reset to clear transient microcomputer lockouts:
- 1.Press the Power or Cancel button to interrupt the active cycle.
- 2.Completely unplug the appliance or trip the dedicated wall circuit breaker.
- 3.Leave disconnected for 5 minutes to discharge internal power supply capacitors and reset microcontrollers.
- 4.Reconnect power and run a test cycle to confirm whether the error is transient or hardware-related.
- 1
Step 1: Access Sensor in Oven Cavity
[ ] DoneRemove 2 screws holding sensor probe to the rear upper wall inside the oven. Gently pull probe forward to expose wiring plug.
Verification:Plastic molex plug emerges into oven cavity; unlatch locking tab to disconnect. - 2
Step 2: Measure RTD Sensor Resistance
[ ] DoneInsert multimeter probes into sensor wire connector on 2,000 Ω scale at room temperature (70°F / 21°C).
Verification:Reading measures 1,080 Ω to 1,100 Ω. Reading over 2,000 Ω or open circuit (OL) confirms a failed sensor. - 3
Step 3: Install OEM Probe & Test Bake Cycle
[ ] DonePlug in new genuine OEM sensor probe, screw flange back into rear sheet metal, and restore 240V breaker.
Verification:F350 code clears; set Bake to 350°F and verify preheat temperature tracking.
Repair Solutions
Measure resistance of the RTD sensor probe with a digital multimeter on 2kΩ scale.
Standard RTD probe must measure approximately 1,080 Ω to 1,100 Ω at 70°F (21°C).
If multimeter reads infinite resistance (OL), replace the oven temperature sensor probe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do GE oven sensor errors often occur after a Self-Clean cycle?
Self-clean cycles reach 900°F (480°C). Over repeated cycles, this extreme thermal stress degrades the internal platinum sensor wire.
Can I bypass the oven sensor to finish cooking?
No. The control board relies strictly on sensor resistance to modulate the 240V bake elements; bypassing it will cause element meltdown and house fires.