Air fryer overheats, burning food even at moderate settings; exterior may feel excessively hot.

Safety first: Unplug immediately if you notice smoke, burning smell, or excessive heat. Allow to cool fully.

• Step 1 – Check sensor position: Inspect the temperature sensor inside the cavity. If it has fallen away from the wall or is touching the heater, it may read incorrectly. Reattach securely.
• Step 2 – Test sensor: Use a multimeter to verify the NTC sensor resistance at room temperature. A very low resistance may indicate a shorted sensor; replace if out of specification.
• Step 3 – Observe heater behavior: With the cover removed (only if you are experienced and can do this safely), power the unit and watch whether the heater cycles on and off. If it stays on continuously regardless of temperature, the heater relay on the main control board is likely stuck and the board must be replaced.
• Step 4 – Verify safety thermostat: Check continuity of the high-limit thermostat. If it never opens even at high temperatures, replace it with the correct Cuisinart-rated part.

Do not continue using an air fryer that overheats; this is a fire hazard.