Oven
F13
The F13 error code on a Zanussi oven indicates a fault with the oven’s temperature sensor (NTC probe) or its wiring circuit. It’s a moderately serious fault — the oven will typically stop heating to protect itself — but it’s often a straightforward repair.
What does this error mean?
F13 means your Zanussi oven’s control board has detected an abnormal reading from the NTC temperature sensor, the component that monitors internal oven temperature. The board either can’t communicate with the sensor, or is receiving a reading that falls outside the expected range. Until this is resolved, the oven will lock out heating functions as a safety precaution.
Est. repair cost
£15–£35 DIY (NTC sensor part only) | £80–£150 professional repair (sensor) | £150–£250+ if PCB replacement is needed
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
1. Reset the oven: Switch the oven off at the wall socket or trip the circuit breaker, wait 5 minutes, then power it back on. If the fault was caused by a temporary glitch or moisture after cleaning, this may clear the F13 code.
2. Check for moisture: If you cleaned the oven recently, allow it to air dry thoroughly with the door open for several hours before restarting. Moisture near the sensor or connectors can trigger a false F13.
3. Inspect the cooling fan vents (usually at the rear or top of the oven): Ensure they are not blocked by debris or built-up grease. A restricted fan can cause overheating that trips the sensor reading.
4. Locate and visually inspect the NTC sensor: The sensor is typically a small probe mounted inside the oven cavity, usually at the back wall. Check that its wire hasn’t melted, frayed, or come loose from its connector. Do NOT open any sealed electrical panels — this is a surface-level check only.
5. Replace the NTC temperature sensor: If the sensor or its lead is visibly damaged, order a genuine Zanussi-compatible NTC sensor (search by your full model number). This is a plug-and-play repair for most Zanussi models — unplug the old sensor, plug in the new one. Cost: approximately £15–£35 for the part. Only do this if you are comfortable working with the oven fully unplugged from the mains.
6. If the code returns after sensor replacement, the issue is likely the control board (PCB) — stop here and call a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
Call a qualified appliance repair engineer if the F13 code persists after a reset and sensor replacement, as the control board (PCB) will need professional diagnosis and likely replacement. Also call immediately if you notice any burning smell, visible burn marks on wiring, or the oven trips your home’s electrics. When you call, tell the engineer: ‘My Zanussi oven is showing error code F13 — I suspect the NTC sensor or PCB.’
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for F13 — covering callout, labour, and an NTC sensor — typically costs £80–£150 in the UK. If the PCB needs replacing, expect £150–£250 or more. If your oven is under 7 years old and otherwise in good condition, repair is worthwhile. For ovens over 10 years old where the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new equivalent model (budget built-in ovens start at around £250–£350), replacement is the more economical choice.