GE oven error codes (also called fault or F-codes) tell you which part of the oven's electronics has a problem. The most common are F3 or F4 (oven temperature sensor), F2 (oven too hot), F9 (door lock), and F1 or F7 (keypanel). Many codes clear with a power reset, but some mean you should stop using the oven. Type your code below to jump straight to the fix.
All GE Oven Codes at a Glance
These meanings come from GE Appliances' own support information for ranges and wall ovens with electronic controls. Tap a code for causes and fixes.
| Code | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| F0, F1, F6, F7 | Keypanel Problem | DIY checks + pro |
| F2, F20 | Oven Too Hot | Stop using oven |
| F3, F4 | Oven Temperature Sensor | DIY checks + pro |
| F5, F8, FF | Electronic Control | Call service |
| F9, FC | Door Lock Circuit | DIY checks + pro |
| F350 | Cooling Fan | DIY checks + pro |
| FD | Meat Probe | Try a reset first |
| F96, F97, F7X | Internal Component | Call service |
| BAD LINE | Wiring Problem | Call service |
| UNLOCK DOOR, LOC DOOR | Unlock Door or Loc Door | Try a reset first |
| LOC | Control Lockout Is On | Not a fault |
| ERR | Invalid Entry | Not a fault |
| OFF | Too Hot to Start | Not a fault |
| ⊃ | Sabbath Mode | Not a fault |
How to Reset a GE Oven
GE notes that switching off the circuit breaker or fuse for a minute or two will sometimes clear an error code. Here's how:
- Turn the oven offPress Cancel/Off and let the oven cool if it's hot.
- Switch off the breakerFind the oven's breaker in your electrical panel (often a double breaker labeled "range" or "oven") and turn it fully off. For plug-in gas ranges, unplug the range instead.
- WaitLeave it off for at least a minute or two. Waiting a little longer gives the control more time to reset fully.
- Restore powerSwitch the breaker back on, set the clock if needed, and try a simple Bake cycle.
- Watch for the codeIf the same code returns, the part it points to usually needs repair or replacement.
After a power outage, some ovens show codes or a flashing clock. See how to reset an oven after a power outage.
GE Oven Error Codes Explained
F0, F1, F6 or F7: Keypanel Problem
DIY checks + proWhat it means: GE says these codes usually point to a problem with the keypanel (the touchpad or membrane switches), and many times the keypanel needs to be replaced. F7 often appears when a key is stuck or reads as constantly pressed.
Common causes
- Moisture or cleaning spray under the touchpad
- A stuck or damaged key
- A worn keypanel ribbon connection
- Less often, the control board
What to try
- Turn the oven off at the breaker for a minute or two, then restore power.
- Check that no key is stuck down, and wipe the panel with a barely damp cloth (never spray cleaner directly on it).
- If the panel got wet, leave the power off for several hours so it can dry.
- If the code returns, the keypanel usually needs replacing by a technician or with the exact part for your model.
F2 or F20: Oven Too Hot
Stop using ovenWhat it means: The oven temperature has gone above a preset safety limit for an unknown reason. Treat this as a safety code.
Common causes
- A faulty oven temperature sensor reading too low
- A control board relay stuck on, keeping an element heating
- Overheating during self-clean
What to try
- Turn the oven off and switch off the breaker. Don't keep using it.
- Let the oven cool completely with the door closed.
- Restore power once. If F2 returns, leave the breaker off and book service.
- GE suggests the cooktop can be used briefly with the breaker on, then switched off again until the oven is repaired.
F3 or F4: Oven Temperature Sensor
DIY checks + proWhat it means: GE says these codes usually mean the oven sensor needs to be replaced. F3 typically indicates an open sensor circuit and F4 a shorted one.
Common causes
- A failed temperature sensor (the thin probe at the back of the oven)
- A loose or damaged sensor connector or wire
- Less often, the control board
What to try
- Do a power reset at the breaker.
- With power off, check that the sensor connector behind the back wall or rear panel is fully seated.
- If you're comfortable, test the sensor with a multimeter. Many oven sensors read roughly 1,000–1,100 ohms at room temperature; check your model's service data.
- Replace the sensor with the exact part for your model. It usually mounts with two screws inside the oven.
F5, F8 or FF: Electronic Control
Call serviceWhat it means: GE says these codes usually mean the electronic oven control (the main control board) needs to be replaced.
Common causes
- A failed control board
- Power surge damage
- Heat or moisture damage to the board
What to try
- Try one power reset at the breaker.
- If the code returns, schedule service. Control boards are model-specific and often expensive.
- Before repairing an older oven, compare the cost with replacement. See our repair-or-replace guidance below.
F9 or FC: Door Lock Circuit
DIY checks + proWhat it means: A component has failed somewhere in the door lock circuit. These often appear around the self-clean cycle.
Common causes
- A faulty door lock motor or switch
- Something blocking the latch
- Wiring problems in the lock circuit
What to try
- Make sure nothing is blocking the door or latch area.
- Turn the breaker off for a minute or two and restore power.
- If the door is locked, let the oven cool fully before trying again.
- If the code returns, the lock assembly usually needs service.
F350: Cooling Fan
DIY checks + proWhat it means: There is an issue with the upper cooling fan circuit or something is obstructing the cooling fan.
Common causes
- An obstruction in the cooling fan
- A failed cooling fan motor
- A wiring or circuit fault
What to try
- Turn the oven off and let it cool.
- Check that the vents around the oven and control panel aren't blocked.
- Restore power. If the code returns, the fan or circuit needs service.
FD: Meat Probe
Try a reset firstWhat it means: Either the meat probe or the probe receptacle (the socket in the oven wall) may need to be replaced.
Common causes
- A damaged or wet probe
- A dirty or damaged receptacle
What to try
- Unplug the probe and see if the code clears.
- Wipe the probe plug and receptacle clean and dry.
- Avoid submerging the probe when washing.
- Replace the probe with the correct part if the code returns with the probe plugged in.
F96, F97 or F7X: Internal Component
Call serviceWhat it means: GE says these codes usually mean an internal component needs to be replaced.
Common causes
- Communication or internal component failure
What to try
- Try one power reset at the breaker.
- If the code returns, schedule service.
Bad Line: Wiring Problem
Call serviceWhat it means: Power is reaching the unit, but it hasn't been wired correctly.
Common causes
- Incorrect installation wiring
What to try
- Contact an installer or licensed electrician to correct the wiring. GE says the oven will then work normally.
Unlock Door or Loc Door
Try a reset firstWhat it means: "Unlock Door" appears when the door won't unlock after a self-clean cycle. A flashing "LOC DOOR" when you haven't selected self-clean also needs a control reset.
Common causes
- The oven is still too hot after self-clean
- A control glitch after a power interruption
- A faulty lock (if resets don't help)
What to try
- Let the oven cool completely; the lock releases when it's safe.
- Turn the breaker off for a minute or two and restore power.
- Follow the reset steps in your owner's manual.
- If the door still won't unlock, call for service rather than forcing it.
LOC: Control Lockout Is On
Not a faultWhat it means: Child lockout (control lock) is turned on to prevent the oven being turned on accidentally.
Common causes
- The lock feature was turned on, often by pressing and holding a button
What to try
- On many GE models, press and hold the Lock Controls (or similar) pad for about 3 seconds to unlock. Check your owner's manual for your model.
ERR: Invalid Entry
Not a faultWhat it means: An invalid entry was made when setting the oven controls.
Common causes
- Pressing pads in the wrong order or entering an invalid time or temperature
What to try
- Press Cancel/Off and enter the setting again.
OFF: Too Hot to Start
Not a faultWhat it means: The oven is too hot to start a self-clean cycle, or it is still cooling down after self-clean.
Common causes
- Recent cooking or a just-finished self-clean cycle
What to try
- Let the oven cool down and try again.
⊃ (Backwards C): Sabbath Mode
Not a faultWhat it means: The oven has been set to Sabbath mode.
Common causes
- Sabbath mode was turned on
What to try
- Follow your owner's manual to exit Sabbath mode; the steps differ between keypad and arrow-control models.
Codes Not Listed Here
GE says it can't publish every fault code for past and present models. If your code isn't listed:
- Check your owner's manual or the technical sheet, often tucked behind a panel or under the cooktop on ranges.
- Note whether it's a number (such as F3), letters (such as LOC) or a symbol, and whether it flashes.
- Try a power reset at the breaker.
- Contact GE Appliances service with your model and serial number.
For problems without a code, such as an oven that won't heat or heats unevenly, use our full oven troubleshooting guide.
Finding Your GE Model Number
You'll need your model and serial number to order parts or book service. On GE ranges, the label is usually on the oven frame behind the door or inside the storage drawer. On wall ovens, look on the frame when the door is open. Write it down, or take a photo, before calling for help.
DIY or Call a Technician?
Usually safe to DIY
- Power reset at the breaker
- Unlocking controls (LOC) and fixing ERR entries
- Cleaning or replacing the meat probe (FD)
- Replacing the oven sensor (F3/F4) if you're handy, with power off
Call a technician
- F2/F20 overheating
- Control board codes (F5, F8, FF)
- Door lock faults that won't reset (F9, FC)
- Wiring problems (Bad Line) and anything involving gas
Always switch off power at the breaker before removing panels or parts, and never work on gas connections yourself.
Repair or Replace?
A sensor or meat probe is usually an inexpensive fix. A control board or keypanel can cost much more, especially on older or discontinued models where parts are hard to find. As a rule of thumb, if the repair costs more than half the price of a comparable new oven and your oven is more than about 10 years old, replacement is often the better choice. Our guide on how long ovens last covers this in detail.
If you decide to replace it, compare brands in our best oven brands guide and check the best time to buy an oven for the biggest discounts.
How to Prevent Error Codes
- Don't spray cleaner on the control panel. Liquid can seep under the keypanel; spray onto a cloth instead.
- Use self-clean sparingly. The very high heat stresses the door lock, sensor and control board. Many people clean by hand between occasional self-clean cycles.
- Keep vents clear so the cooling fan and electronics stay cool.
- Protect against surges with a whole-home surge protector if your area has frequent outages or storms.
- Handle the meat probe gently and keep its plug dry.
Prefer cleaning by hand? See our guide to the best oven cleaners.
GE Oven Error Code FAQs
What does F3 mean on a GE oven?
GE says F3 usually means the oven temperature sensor needs to be replaced. Try a power reset first, then check the sensor connection or replace the sensor.
What does F2 mean on a GE oven?
F2 (or F20) means the oven temperature went above a preset limit. Turn the oven off at the breaker and don't use it until it's been checked by a technician.
What does F9 mean on a GE oven?
F9 means a component has failed somewhere in the door lock circuit. It often shows up around self-clean. Try a power reset; if it returns, the lock assembly usually needs service.
What does F1 mean on a GE oven?
GE says F1 usually indicates a keypanel problem, and the keypanel often needs to be replaced. Try a power reset and make sure the panel is dry and no key is stuck.
How do I clear an error code on my GE oven?
Turn off the circuit breaker for a minute or two, then turn it back on. If the code returns, the part it refers to likely needs repair.
What does LOC mean on a GE oven?
LOC means the control lockout (child lock) is on. On many models, press and hold the Lock Controls pad for about three seconds to turn it off.
Why does my GE oven say OFF?
The oven is too hot to start a self-clean cycle, or it's still cooling after self-clean. Let it cool down and try again.
What is the backwards C on my GE oven?
A backwards "C" in the display means the oven is in Sabbath mode. Check your manual for how to exit it.
Can I still use my cooktop with an oven error code?
GE suggests keeping the breaker off until service, but notes it's okay to switch it on long enough to use the surface units, then turn it off again. Don't do this for an overheating (F2) code without a technician's advice.
Do GE Profile and Café ovens use the same codes?
Many GE-made ranges and wall ovens with electronic controls share the same common codes, but models differ. Always check your owner's manual or GE support for your exact model.
The Bottom Line
Most GE oven error codes point to a specific part: the keypanel (F0, F1, F6, F7), the temperature sensor (F3, F4), the control board (F5, F8, FF) or the door lock (F9, FC). Start with a power reset at the breaker. If the code comes back, replace the part or call service, and stop using the oven right away for an F2 overheating code.
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