LG Oven Error Code F2 — What It Means
The F2 error on many LG ovens is a fault code that points to a temperature-sensing or control fault. In practical terms, F2 usually indicates the oven is receiving an out-of-range temperature reading or losing communication with the temperature sensor (thermistor/NTC), the control board, or an associated wiring connection. When the oven cannot accurately read or control temperature, cooking times and results become unpredictable, the unit may fail to heat at all, or it could overheat and trigger safety shutoffs. For users this can mean undercooked or burned food, extended cooking cycles, oven lockouts, and in rare cases increased fire risk if the oven is not shutting down correctly. Because the code can be caused by anything from a loose connector to a failed control board, it’s important to troubleshoot methodically and prioritize safety.
Common Causes
- Faulty oven temperature sensor (NTC thermistor) or open/shorted sensor
- Loose, damaged, or corroded wiring or sensor connector
- Faulty main control board (EOC/PCB) or its temperature circuit
- Intermittent / poor connection at the control board or sensor plug
- Failed oven relay or heating element causing abnormal temperatures
- Software or firmware glitch (less common) that requires a reset or service update
- Malfunctioning user interface or key/control board reporting incorrect status
Troubleshooting Steps
- Power reset: Turn off power to the oven (switch off at breaker) for 1–2 minutes, then restore power. Some temporary faults clear with a reset.
- Record the conditions: Note when the F2 appeared (preheat, during bake, after self-clean). That context helps narrow causes.
- Inspect visually: With power off, check the temperature sensor (inside the oven cavity, usually a small metal probe) and its connector for loose pins, corrosion, or damage.
- Check wiring and connectors: Inspect the harness from the sensor to the control board. Repair or reseat any loose connectors. Look for chafed insulation or pin damage.
- Measure sensor resistance: With the oven unplugged, disconnect the sensor and measure resistance with a multimeter. Compare to the manufacturer spec (many oven NTC sensors read around ~1,000–1,100 Ω at room temperature, but verify your model’s value). Replace the sensor if it’s open, shorted, or well outside spec.
- Swap or isolate: If you have a known-good sensor or harness, try substituting to confirm the sensor vs control board. Only do this if you are qualified and comfortable with appliance electrical work.
- Check the control board: If the sensor and wiring test good, the oven control board or temperature circuit may be failing. Look for burned components, bulging capacitors, or scorch marks on the PCB.
- Look for error history: Some ovens store multiple fault codes—record these and consult the LG service guide or support; correlated codes help pinpoint the failing subsystem.
- Test heating elements: In rare cases a shorted heating element or stuck relay that drives the element can cause abnormal behavior and codes. Test element continuity with power off.
- When in doubt, call a professional: If you cannot confidently identify the cause, contact LG support or an authorized technician to avoid safety risks and incorrect parts replacement.
Maintenance / Prevention Tips
- Keep the oven cavity clean — heavy buildup can affect sensor readings.
- Inspect and clean the sensor connector periodically to remove grease and corrosion.
- Avoid banging or pressing hard on the internal temperature probe to prevent damage.
- Use proper cookware and avoid blocking sensor airflow inside the oven.
- Check door seals and hinges — a poor seal can cause temperature control issues.
- Don’t overload the oven or place large foil sheets covering sensor areas.
- Schedule annual inspections for high-use ovens to catch wiring wear early.
- Replace frayed or damaged power cords and wiring immediately — don’t tape them.
- Use a surge protector on circuits prone to spikes (consult an electrician for oven circuits).
- Keep the area around the oven moisture-free to reduce connector corrosion risk.
- Follow the owner’s manual for recommended self-cleaning use and cool-down periods.
- Note error codes when they appear and log pattern or frequency for technician review.
- Use only manufacturer-recommended replacement parts to ensure compatibility.
- Don’t attempt DIY control board repairs unless you are experienced with electronics.
- Consider professional installation for new units to ensure wiring and grounding is correct.
- Keep firmware updated if LG provides updates for your model (through authorized service).
FAQs
- Q: Can I keep using the oven when F2 appears?
- A: It depends on behavior. If the oven is heating normally and not showing other symptoms, a temporary reset may clear it. However, if temperature control is unreliable, the oven should not be left unattended — stop use and troubleshoot to avoid food spoilage or safety hazards.
- Q: How much does sensor replacement typically cost?
- A: Parts for an oven temperature sensor are usually modest ($20–$80) but labor and diagnostics by a technician will add to the total. If the control board is at fault, the cost can be significantly higher.
- Q: Is F2 covered under warranty?
- A: Coverage depends on your warranty status and the fault cause. Manufacturer defects (sensor or board failure) are likely covered if within warranty; damage from misuse or external causes usually isn’t. Check your LG warranty terms or contact support.
- Q: I tested the sensor and it looks okay — what next?
- A: If sensor and wiring are within spec, suspect the main control board or intermittent connector problems. Have a technician run diagnostics to confirm and replace the failed module if needed.
- Q: Are there any safe DIY fixes?
- A: Basic checks like power-resetting the oven and visually inspecting/reseating connectors are safe for most homeowners. Electrical testing or part replacement should only be done if you are comfortable and the power is disconnected. Otherwise call a qualified technician.
Conclusion / Safety Notice
F2 on an LG oven can signal a range of issues from a simple loose connector to a serious control-board or overheating condition. Because ovens operate at high temperatures and involve mains electricity, prioritize safety: disconnect power before inspecting components, avoid using the oven if temperature control is unreliable, and do not ignore recurring faults. If troubleshooting steps do not clearly identify and resolve the problem, or if you are uncomfortable working with electrical parts, contact LG support or a certified appliance technician.
When in doubt, let a professional diagnose and repair the oven. Replacing the wrong part or performing unsafe repairs can create bigger problems or safety hazards. Use the guidance above to gather information before the service call — noting when the code appears, any accompanying symptoms, and recent changes — to help the technician resolve the issue faster.
Severity Level
Affected Appliance Models
| Model Number |
|---|
| LRE series (freestanding electric ranges) |
| LSE series (slide-in electric ranges) |
| LRG series (gas ranges with electronic controls) |
| LWS series (wall ovens) |
| LWE series (wall ovens) |
