GE Oven Error Code F2 — Oven Overheating
What this means
The F2 error code on GE ovens means the oven has overheated beyond its safe threshold. During normal bake mode, this triggers when the temperature exceeds 615–630°F. During self-clean mode, it triggers above 915–930°F. This is a safety-critical code — the oven shuts off heating to prevent damage or fire. The cause is typically a faulty temperature sensor, a stuck relay on the control board, or a defective oven element.
Alternate codes: F20
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsTurn off the oven immediately
If the oven is overheating, turn it off at the circuit breaker right away. Let the oven cool completely before doing any troubleshooting — this is a safety hazard.
Do not open the oven door if you smell burning or see smoke. Wait for it to cool fully.
Test the oven temperature sensor
Once cool, unplug the oven. The temperature sensor (RTD) is a thin metal probe inside the oven, typically at the back wall. Disconnect it and test with a multimeter — at room temperature it should read approximately 1,080–1,100 ohms.
A reading significantly lower or higher than 1,100 ohms means the sensor has failed and is giving incorrect temperature readings to the control board.
Check the bake and broil elements
Visually inspect the bake element (bottom) and broil element (top) for bright spots, blistering, or holes. A damaged element can overheat in one area.
Replace the faulty component
Replace the temperature sensor if it tested out of range. If the sensor is good, the control board may have a welded relay contact that keeps the element on — replace the ERC board.
After replacing parts, run the oven at 350°F and verify the temperature with an oven thermometer.
When to call a professional
An overheating oven is a safety concern. If you cannot identify the cause or the problem continues after replacing the sensor, call a professional immediately.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
Links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend parts relevant to this repair.