F3
Viking
Oven Temperature Sensor (Thermistor) Failure
Microwave shows F3 and will not start or stops mid-cycle; may be accompanied by erratic temperature readings on convection models.
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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
Open or shorted oven temperature sensor, Damaged sensor wiring harness, Loose sensor connector at control board, Failed main control board sensor circuit
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Disconnect power at the breaker. Internal components can be sharp and high-voltage parts are dangerous.
- Locate the sensor: On Viking convection or microwave/oven combo units, the temperature sensor is typically mounted on the rear interior wall of the cavity with two screws and a wire harness leading to the control board.
- Visual inspection: Remove the interior mounting screws and gently pull the sensor forward. Check for burned insulation, broken wires, or corrosion at the connector.
- Check connections: Follow the harness to the control board (accessed from the top or rear). Ensure the sensor plug is fully seated on the Viking control board.
- Resistance test (for qualified users with a meter): With the sensor disconnected and at room temperature, measure resistance across the sensor leads. Typical Viking sensors read around 1000–1100 Ω at 70°F (21°C). If reading is open, shorted, or far out of spec, replace the sensor.
- Replace sensor if faulty: Install a new Viking oven temperature sensor, route the harness away from hot or sharp edges, and secure with original screws.
- If sensor tests good: The main control board sensor circuit may be defective and require replacement.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Oven Temperature Sensor
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