The F3 error on your Indesit Dishwasher means the water temperature sensor (NTC probe) is sending an incorrect or no reading to the control board. Checking the sensor wiring and connections often resolves this without needing a replacement part.

Error code F3
Meaning Water temperature sensor (NTC) fault or reading out of range
Severity Medium — the dishwasher will usually stop mid-cycle to protect the heating element
Time to fix 15–40 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver

What the F3 error means

Indesit dishwashers use an NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor to monitor the temperature of the water inside the tub. This tells the control board when to stop heating and when it’s safe to continue the wash cycle. When the F3 code appears, the board has detected a signal from this sensor that doesn’t match expected values — either too high, too low, or missing entirely.

This is similar in principle to sensor-related faults seen on other Indesit appliances, such as the Indesit Washing F02 Error Code, where a component reading falls outside its normal range and triggers a safety stop.

Common causes

  • Faulty or degraded NTC temperature sensor
  • Loose or corroded wiring connector at the sensor
  • Sensor coated in limescale, affecting its accuracy
  • Damaged wiring harness between the sensor and control board
  • Control board fault (less common, but possible after ruling out the sensor)
  • Water not reaching the tub properly, causing an abnormal temperature reading

How to fix the F3 error

  1. Power down and reset: Unplug the dishwasher for two minutes, then plug it back in and start a new cycle. A temporary glitch may clear on its own.
  2. Inspect the sensor wiring: Locate the NTC sensor (usually near the tub base or heating element) and check the connector is firmly seated with no corrosion or damage.
  3. Clean the sensor: Remove limescale buildup around the sensor using a descaling solution, as buildup can interfere with accurate readings.
  4. Test the sensor with a multimeter: Check resistance against the manufacturer’s spec for your water temperature. A reading far outside range confirms a faulty sensor.
  5. Replace the NTC sensor: If testing confirms a fault, replace the sensor with the correct Indesit part for your model.
  6. Check the control board: If the sensor and wiring test fine but the error persists, the control board itself may need inspection by a qualified technician.

FAQ

Can I keep using the dishwasher with an F3 error showing?
It’s best not to. The machine may stop heating water properly, leading to poor cleaning results or an incomplete cycle.

Is the NTC sensor expensive to replace?
No, it’s typically one of the more affordable parts to replace, and the job is straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic appliance repairs.

Will a reset always fix the F3 error?
Not always. A reset clears temporary glitches, but if the sensor or wiring is genuinely faulty, the error will return once the machine reaches the temperature-checking stage again.