How to Replace the Temperature Sensor on a Hotpoint RBS160DMWW Oven & Range — Step-by-Step Instructions
Step-by-step instructions for the Hotpoint RBS160DMWW (electric range, smooth top, 5.0 cu ft). Parts and access points can differ slightly by production year — the steps below cover the common layout for this platform, and the model notes flag its quirks.
Unplug the range or flip its breaker. The sensor circuit is low-voltage but lives next to 240V wiring.
Tools
- Nut driver
- Multimeter
- Oven thermometer ($10, for verification)
Parts
- Temperature sensor (RTD probe) for your model
Step by step
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1 Verify with a thermometer first
Hang a $10 oven thermometer, set 350°F, and check after 20 minutes. Within ~25°F is normal (use the oven’s calibration offset instead); 50°F+ off points at the sensor.
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2 Test the sensor
Unplug the range, find the thin probe at the cavity’s upper rear, and measure resistance at its connector: roughly 1080–1100 ohms at room temperature on most ovens. Far off = replace.
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3 Unscrew and withdraw
Two screws hold the probe’s flange to the back wall. Pull it into the oven cavity until the connector appears, then unplug it. Don’t lose the wire into the insulation.
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4 Fit the new probe
Connect, feed the wiring back, and screw the flange home.
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5 Re-verify
Same thermometer test — the dial and the thermometer should now agree within ~15°F. Fine-tune with the calibration setting if you like.
Hotpoint RBS160DMWW notes & error codes
Rental-grade ranges get swapped often, and the anti-tip bracket is left behind more than any other part. Check it on every visit regardless of what the call was booked for.
| Code | What it means |
|---|---|
| F2 | Oven over-temperature |
| F3 | Sensor circuit open |
| F4 | Sensor circuit shorted |
Full details for this machine — common problems, causes, and costs — are in the Hotpoint RBS160DMWW repair guide. The general version of these instructions is here.
If a new sensor reads right but temps still swing wildly, the control board’s relay is cycling badly — board-level work worth a pro’s meter. If you'd rather skip it entirely, find a oven & range repair pro near you →
What this repair costs professionally
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