Cooker
F03
The F03 error code on a Stoves cooker indicates a fault with the oven temperature sensor (NTC probe), preventing the appliance from accurately reading or regulating heat. It’s a moderately serious fault — the oven will likely stop working until it’s resolved, but it’s often a straightforward fix.
What does this error mean?
F03 signals that the oven’s NTC temperature sensor has either failed, developed a short circuit, or become disconnected from the control board. The cooker’s electronic control system relies on this sensor to monitor oven temperature in real time — without a valid signal, it shuts the oven down as a safety precaution. This is an electrical fault, not a gas fault, and applies to both freestanding and range-style Stoves electric and dual-fuel ovens.
Est. repair cost
£15–£30 DIY sensor replacement; £80–£160 professional repair (sensor or wiring); £150–£250+ if PCB replacement needed
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Step 1 – Reset the cooker: Switch off at the wall socket (or isolate at the fuse spur), wait 5 minutes, then switch back on. A one-off power glitch can trigger F03 without a physical fault. If the error clears and doesn’t return, monitor for recurrence.
Step 2 – Inspect the oven cavity for visible damage: With the cooker off and completely cool, look inside the oven for the NTC probe — it’s usually a small metal pin or tube mounted on the back or side wall. Check whether it looks burnt, corroded, or physically broken.
Step 3 – Clean around the sensor: If the probe appears intact, gently wipe away any grease or carbon build-up around the probe tip using a damp cloth. Reconnect the power and test. A dirty probe can cause intermittent false readings.
Step 4 – Check the probe’s wiring connector: Pull the cooker out carefully and remove the back panel (unplug first). Locate the sensor wiring connector and check it’s firmly seated. If it has come loose, reconnect it securely and retest.
Step 5 – Test or replace the NTC sensor: NTC probes for Stoves ovens are widely available online for £15–£30. If you’re comfortable with basic appliance DIY, disconnect the old probe (two screws and a connector), fit the new one, and retest. Ensure the cooker is fully unplugged before doing this.
Step 6 – If the error persists after a new sensor: The fault likely lies with the main PCB or wiring harness. Do not attempt to replace the PCB yourself — this requires a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If replacing the NTC temperature sensor doesn’t clear the F03 code, call a qualified appliance engineer — the PCB or internal wiring is likely at fault and requires professional diagnosis. Tell the engineer the exact error code (F03), that you’ve already replaced or checked the NTC probe, and the model number of your Stoves cooker (found on the rating plate inside the door frame). Do not continue using the oven with an active F03 fault, as heat regulation cannot be guaranteed.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for F03 on a Stoves cooker typically costs £80–£160 depending on whether it’s the sensor (cheaper) or the PCB (more expensive). If your cooker is under 8 years old, repair is almost always worth it — Stoves appliances are well-built and replacement costs £500–£1,200+. If the cooker is over 10 years old and a PCB replacement is needed (£150–£250 in parts alone), weigh up whether a new appliance makes more economic sense.