GE Oven F7 Code

Introduction

The F7 error is usually associated with a problem with the oven's membrane keypad. There are a couple of tricky aspects to the problem, and parts replacement requires a bit of extra effort. You may also encounter it on a glass touch keypad. This error occurs very commonly on older GE units, especially with units that have had a self-clean cycle run. Often, it is the outcome of that cycle.

Tip:

A multimeter is an important tool in troubleshooting these devices, so knowing how to use one is pretty important.

The Basics

As with almost any error code, resetting the device is a good first step. For GE ovens, the easiest way to do this is to disconnect the power.

You may be able to reach the plug on gas or electric ranges or stoves. You can disconnect the power at the circuit breaker if it is difficult to reach.
Built-in ovens (like wall ovens) require you to disconnect power at the circuit breaker since they are usually hardwired and don't have a plug.
Leave the power disconnected for 5 minutes.
Reconnect the power and check to see if the error returns.
If it does, move on to the next item. If not, monitor the oven, as this type of error often starts with occasional error codes, which power cycling clears and then grows in frequency.

Causes

Defective Keypad/Control

Disconnect power from the unit.
Next, disconnect the keypad (Glass or Membrane).
Clean the ribbon cable contacts carefully with a pencil eraser.
Then reconnect it making sure the ribbon cable is well seated.
Power up the unit again after reassembling it.
- Make sure there are no pinched or damaged wires and the ribbon cable is properly folded.
Be prepared to run through a setup process for the unit, as it may need to be reset after disconnecting

If you have a glass touch keypad with the F7 error code still showing, replace the keypad. You cannot make measurements except to verify "infinitely high resistance" between all pins (see image below). If this does not solve the problem, go to the Defective Control.

With a membrane keypad (the kind that has bubbles at each key), this code is indicative of a shorted key matrix or a problem with the START key.

Here is a layout for the ribbon cable terminals on early models. Follow the instructions to check the individual keys.

Membrane Keypad Ribbon Cable Pinout

You can also try disconnecting the ribbon cable from the keypad and see if the error changes. Often, it will shift to an F0. Opinions differ on whether the control unit or the keypad is bad. At that point, both the keypad and the control board should likely be replaced.

Unfortunately, you can't do further testing, so you can start by replacing the keypad. Make sure you power down the unit before doing so. If this doesn't fix it, go to Defective Control.

Sometimes, the membrane-type keypad will warp from excessive heat. This can happen if the self-clean feature is used and any items are left on the stovetop to deflect heat toward the keypad. Or just because the design is problematic and really can't take the heat of a self-clean cycle. If your keypad has ripples and you are getting this error, replace it. If you just did a self-clean, replace the keypad first. If this doesn't solve the issue, go to Defective Control.

If the above steps point to a defective control, then power down the unit, and replace the control board. It is also called an Electronic Range Control (ERC). Be prepared to run through a setup process for the unit.