Fixes for the 7 most common oven issues

When your oven is broken, your family’s life comes to a complete stop. But wait, before you call Uber® Eats, we may be able to help you solve the problem. The most common oven issues are typically a quick fix. We’ll show you what to do. 

Asurion Experts have experience troubleshooting and repairing every major appliance, so they have the know-how to quickly whip your kitchen back into working order. Here’s our guide on how to fix common oven issues.  

What are the most common oven issues?

Many people use their oven every day so it’s not convenient—or surprising—when your appliance suddenly stops working. Here are some of the most common oven issues and how to fix them: 

Your oven won’t turn on 

Check that your oven is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Still won’t turn on? You may have a faulty ignition system (gas oven) or a damaged heating element (electric oven). Troubleshooting these issues could be dangerous—there’s a risk of electric shock. We recommend contacting an expert for help. 

The interior light won’t stay on

Make sure your oven is turned off. Then try replacing the bulb. If the light is flickering or still won’t stay on, you may have a faulty light switch or connecting wire. The safest approach is to contact a repair technician for help.

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The oven door won’t seal properly

If the door isn’t closing all the way, you’ll lose heat when you turn on your oven which can lead to uneven cooking or baking. Check your door gasket—a rubber seal that lines the door—for any damage or debris. If it’s dirty, clean it with a soft cloth or sponge to improve the seal. If the gasket is damaged, you likely need to replace it. 

Your oven is getting too hot

If your oven is regularly overheating, there are several possible causes, like a loosened thermostat knob or malfunctioning heating element. To troubleshoot, check out our complete guide on how to fix an oven that’s getting too hot.

Self-cleaning function doesn’t work

If you can’t get your oven to start the self-cleaning cycle, check the owner’s manual to make sure you’re following all the instructions like removing all racks and closing the door tightly before you start. If that’s not the issue, the problem could be with the door lock mechanism, thermostat, wiring, oven control board, or thermal fuse. If you don’t have the skills and tools to test or repair these components, contact a repair pro. 

Persistent error codes

Newer ovens use error codes to indicate specific problems. If you see an error code like F5 or F8, check your owner’s manual to see what it means. Sometimes, resetting the oven by unplugging it and plugging it back in can clear the error. If a code persists, you’ll need a technician to fix the issue. 

Unusual noises

If you hear noises in your oven like buzzing or rattling, there are likely loose parts that are starting to fail. Unplug your appliance, then check and tighten screws on components like the fan or convection motor.

Should I repair or replace my oven?

If you’re having problems with your gas or electric oven, you may be wondering whether to repair or replace your appliance. That's a good question. If your oven is more than halfway through its lifespan (ovens last approximately 10-15 years) and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it. But if fixing it is less than half the cost of buying something new, a repair is usually the better option. Check out our guide on whether to repair or replace your appliance. Does your oven need a good cleaning? Check out our guide on how to clean your oven.