F3
Kenmore
Water Temperature Sensor / Thermistor Fault
Dishwasher displays F3 and may not heat water properly; dishes come out cold and wet.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Failed temperature sensor (thermistor), Loose or corroded wiring to thermistor, Faulty heating circuit on control board, Open heating element causing abnormal temp readings
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn off power at the breaker and allow the dishwasher to cool before working near the heater.
- Access the thermistor: Remove the toe-kick and, if needed, pull the dishwasher out slightly. The thermistor is typically mounted in the sump or near the heater housing. Consult your Kenmore model’s tech sheet for exact location.
- Inspect wiring: Check the harness connector to the thermistor for corrosion, loose pins, or damage. Reseat the connector firmly.
- Test the thermistor: Disconnect the thermistor and measure resistance with a multimeter. Compare the reading to the temperature/resistance chart in the tech sheet. If it’s open, shorted, or far out of spec, replace the thermistor.
- Check the heater: Inspect the heating element for breaks or burn marks. Test for continuity; if open, replace the heater. A failed heater can cause abnormal temperature readings and trigger F3.
If sensor and heater test good, the electronic control board may be misinterpreting the signal and may need replacement.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Thermistor (Temperature Sensor)
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