Whirlpool Oven Error F2: Keypad/Touchpad Failure

The Logic Verdict

My Take: F2 almost always means “Stuck Key.” The computer thinks you are holding down a button forever. Before buying a new keypad (which can be expensive), try the “cleaning method” shown in the video. Electronic contact cleaner can sometimes free up a sticky micro-switch or clean a dirty ribbon cable connection.

What It Means

F2 = Keypad/Touchpad Short. A key on the membrane switch or control board is reading as “pressed” continuously for more than 60 seconds.

Potential Causes

1. Stuck Button: Grease or gunk has worked its way into the keypad.
2. Ribbon Cable Corrosion: The flat cable connecting the keypad to the board has dirty contacts.
3. Failed Membrane Switch: The layers of the keypad have shorted together internally.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Hard Reset: Unplug the oven for 5 minutes. Sometimes this resets the logic.
2. Clean the Ribbon Cable:
   • Unplug the oven.
   • Access the control board (back panel).
   • Unplug the ribbon cable connecting the keypad.
   • Clean the contacts with a pencil eraser or electronic cleaner.
   • Re-seat it firmly.
3. Clean the Switches (Advanced): As shown in the video, if you can access the actual switches, use electronic contact cleaner and compressed air to blow out debris.
4. Replace Keypad: If cleaning fails, the membrane switch is permanently shorted and needs replacement.

Resources

• Electronic Contact Cleaner (Amazon)
• Whirlpool Oven Keypads (Amazon)