Display shows E3 and smoker will not start heating or shuts off during preheat.

Safety first: Disconnect power before opening the control housing.

• Power reset: Unplug the smoker for at least 5 minutes to discharge the control board. Plug back in and check if the error clears.
• Inspect control board: Remove the control panel cover. Look for burnt spots, swollen capacitors, or discolored components near the sensor input terminals.
• Check connectors: Ensure the temperature sensor plug is oriented correctly and fully seated on the board. Bent pins or loose connectors can trigger E3.
• Test with known‑good sensor: If available, temporarily connect a known‑good Cuisinart sensor to the board. If E3 remains, the control board is likely defective.
• Replace control module: If visual damage is present or the error persists with a good sensor, replace the electronic control module following the manufacturer’s wiring diagram. Label each wire before removal to avoid mis‑wiring.