F03

Temperature Sensor (NTC) Error

Home Appliance Error Codes Indesit Washing machines

Can you still use it? With care until repaired

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 30 minutes – 1.5 hours

Typical cost SAR 80 to 600

What it means

This code appears on electronic Indesit washing machines and means the main board is reading an implausible value from the water temperature sensor (NTC thermistor) because of an open or short in the sensor or its wiring. The machine usually stops or refuses heated programs, and the same number can mean something else on other brands. Codes differ between some Indesit series, so check your manual to confirm.

Models covered: Indesit washing machines on the electronic EVO platform; the code shows on the display or as blinking lights. Older mechanical models do not show codes.

Symptoms4

The code appears shortly after a hot program starts.
Water stays cold even on hot programs.
The cycle runs long or stops midway.
On some models, cold programs still run normally.

Possible causes4

Failed temperature sensor (NTC), usually fitted near the heating element.
Loose or corroded sensor connector.
Damaged wire between the sensor and the main board.
Fault in the sensor-reading circuit on the main board.

How to diagnose5

Unplug the machine for a few minutes, then start a short program to see if the code returns.
Note whether the code shows only on hot programs or on all programs.
The technician unplugs the machine before opening it, then checks the sensor connector for corrosion or looseness.
The technician measures the sensor resistance and compares it with the manufacturer table at room temperature.
If the sensor and wiring are fine, the sensor circuit on the board is checked.

How to fix5

Clean and reseat the sensor connector.
Repair the damaged wire.
Replace the temperature sensor.
Repair or replace the main board if its reading circuit is faulty.
Run a full hot program to confirm the water heats and the code is gone.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The sensor is a fairly cheap, quick part to fit; the cost only rises if the fault is on the main board.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash in cold water until it is fixed?

Some models allow it, but if the code shows on every program, stop using the machine until the sensor is checked.

Does this code mean the heating element is dead?

Not necessarily; it usually concerns the sensor and its wiring, while heater faults have their own codes such as F07 and F08.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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