KitchenAid Smoothtop Cooktop Code F03: the touch control module lost its internal link

What F03 means

On KitchenAid electric radiant touch-control cooktops, like the KCES550HSS or KECC664BSS, F03 points to an internal communication error on the touch control module. The parts of the control are no longer talking to each other as they should. You see the code and may find the cooktop unresponsive until power is reset and it is watched for one minute. Treat it as a control issue, not a cookware one.

Common causes of F03

A short communication glitch inside the touch control
Power interruption while the cooktop was in use
A touch control module that loses contact with the main control
Wiring between control parts that has loosened

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn off all cooking areas. 2. Switch the cooktop's breaker off for a minute, then on again. 3. Watch the display for one minute to make sure F03 stays gone. 4. If it comes back, leave the cooktop off and call us.

! Why to stop there

A communication error that survives a reset needs a closer look at the control and its wiring.
Those parts are under the glass and carry live voltage.
We price in writing before we start and back the repair with 30 days.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Cooktop codes

FC E4KitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC E4: the harness between touchpad and induction module FC LFKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC LF: left front zone, its coil or its wiring FC LRKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC LR: a left-side zone that will not heat FC RFKitchenAid Smoothtop Cooktop Code FC RF: right front area, element or wiring FC RRKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Code FC RR: the right rear zone does not respond H - Residual HeatKitchenAid Induction Cooktop H: Residual Heat Indicator Indicator or Display FlashingKitchenAid Induction Cooktop Flashing Display: Keys Held Down Indicator or Hot Light OnKitchenAid Smoothtop Cooktop Hot Light On: Control Still On or Element Hot

F03F03 questions

What is F03 telling me?

It reports an internal communication error on the touch control module. The control parts are not exchanging information properly, so the cooktop may ignore your touches or shut down.

Can resetting power fix F03?

Sometimes. Cut power for a minute, restore it and watch for 60 seconds. If F03 does not return, the glitch has passed. If it does, a repair is the next step.

Is F03 dangerous?

It is not an immediate hazard, but do not use a cooktop that behaves unpredictably. Leave it off until it has been checked. A cooktop that shuts down or ignores keys should stay off until a technician has looked at it.