Whirlpool Microwave E03 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as F2 on some models.
E03 — or a plain F2 — means the keypad reported a problem to the control board; reset power for one minute and call for service if it comes back.
What this code means
Whirlpool says that with E03 and with F2 the keypad (user interface) reported a problem to the control board, and there may be a problem with the keypad or the associated wiring. It adds that you may need a qualified technician.
Whirlpool over-the-range microwaves. E03 and F2 are separate codes with the same description.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Keypad fault | Common | No — technician job |
| Moisture or grease on the touch panel | Occasional | Yes — wipe and dry |
| Wiring between keypad and control | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Wipe the control panel with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry it.
- Turn the microwave's breaker off for one minute, then on.
- Watch the display for one minute and try a short heat with a cup of water.
- Schedule service if the code returns. Do not open the microwave cabinet.
When to call a technician
- Code returns after the reset.
- Keys do not respond or respond wrongly.
- The microwave starts or beeps on its own — switch off the breaker.
Typical professional repair cost: Keypad or control panel replacement typically costs $150–$350.
Frequently asked questions
What does E03 mean on a Whirlpool microwave?
The keypad (user interface) reported a problem to the control board.
Is F2 the same?
Whirlpool gives the plain F2 code the same explanation.
Can I fix the keypad myself?
No. Microwave cabinets contain high-voltage parts that hold a charge when unplugged; leave internal work to a technician.
Sources checked
- Whirlpool Product Help: E03 - Over-the-Range Microwave
- Whirlpool Product Help: F2 - Over-the-Range Microwave
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Microwave SE SE means there is a problem with the keypad (user interface) or its wiring — clean and dry the panel, reset power for a minute, and call service if SE remains.
- Whirlpool Microwave E11 E11 and E12 point to the microwave's gas sensor — the sensor used for automatic cooking — or its wiring; reset power for a minute, and expect to need a technician if it returns.
- Whirlpool Microwave E13 E13 means the oven did not pre-heat correctly, with a possible problem in the appliance control board or its wiring; reset power for a minute and call service if it repeats.
- Whirlpool Microwave E21 E21 means the thermal sensor circuit reported open and E22 that it reported a short — reset power for a minute, and have a technician check the sensor, control board or wiring if it returns.
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