Cooker
F03
The F03 error code on a Hotpoint cooker indicates a fault with the oven temperature sensor (NTC probe), meaning the appliance cannot accurately read the oven cavity temperature. It’s a moderately serious fault — your oven will likely be disabled until it’s resolved, but it’s not a safety emergency.
What does this error mean?
F03 signals that the oven’s NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) temperature sensor has sent a reading outside the expected range — either open-circuit, short-circuit, or a value the control board considers implausible. The cooker’s software detects this as a potential runaway temperature risk and shuts the oven down as a precaution. You may still be able to use the hob burners or electric rings while the oven is locked out, depending on your model.
Est. repair cost
£15–£40 DIY sensor replacement; £80–£140 professional sensor repair; £150–£250+ if PCB replacement is needed
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Step 1 — Power cycle the appliance: Switch the cooker off at the wall socket or isolate it at the fuse board, wait 5 minutes, then restore power. A transient fault can occasionally trigger F03; if the error clears and doesn’t return, monitor closely.
Step 2 — Check the oven door seal: Inspect the rubber or fibre gasket around the oven door for tears, gaps, or compression failure. A damaged seal lets heat escape unevenly and can stress the sensor. Replacement seals cost £10–£25 and clip or screw in without tools on most Hotpoint models.
Step 3 — Clean the sensor probe: Locate the NTC sensor — it’s a small metal rod, usually mounted on the back wall inside the oven cavity. With the oven cool and isolated from power, gently wipe away any grease or carbon build-up using a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners on the probe itself.
Step 4 — Inspect the sensor wiring (visual only): Open the oven door and look for any visible wiring near the sensor that appears burnt, pinched, or disconnected. If you can see a loose plug connector at the sensor end and are confident isolating the power, reseating it is a safe action. Do not open the back panel or probe further into the appliance.
Step 5 — Test or replace the NTC sensor: If you’re comfortable with basic appliance DIY, the NTC sensor can be ordered by your Hotpoint model number (check the rating plate inside the door frame) for £15–£40. It typically requires removing one or two screws inside the oven cavity to swap out. Always isolate power first. If in doubt, stop here and call a professional.
Step 6 — If the error persists after sensor replacement: The fault is likely the main control board (PCB). This is not a DIY job — board replacement requires correct diagnosis to avoid unnecessary cost, and involves working inside the appliance’s electrical enclosure. Call a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a qualified appliance repair engineer if the error returns after a power cycle and sensor clean, or if you’re not confident replacing the sensor yourself. Tell them: ‘My Hotpoint oven is displaying error code F03 — I believe it’s an NTC temperature sensor fault.’ If your model is a gas range cooker, only a Gas Safe registered engineer should work on any part of the appliance beyond the steps above.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional diagnosis and NTC sensor replacement typically costs £80–£140 all-in across the UK. If the fault lies with the PCB, expect £150–£250+, which starts to approach the cost of a new mid-range Hotpoint oven (£300–£500). If your cooker is over 8 years old and the PCB is at fault, replacement is likely better value than repair. For a sensor fault on a younger appliance, repair is almost always the right call.