We have the same F3 problem with our rangetop microwave. ..GE JVM 1650. We have a replacement keypad that a repairman ordered 2 years ago but did not need. How do you remove the old keypad and install the new one? Thank you

F3 on a GE / Hotpoint microwave means you have a shorted membrane keypad.

You can find helpful exploded view diagrams and order parts by entering your full model number here.

F3 on a GE / Hotpoint microwave means you have a shorted membrane keypad.

We would need your model number to give you more specific info, part ordering info, and en estimate if needed.

Simply contact me here with your model number and symptoms for free help.

On some models, the membrane keypad is peeled off and a new one stuck on.

In other models, the plastic frame must be replaced, and it comes with a keypad already installed.

yes replace the keypad

my spacemaker xl jvm 1650 microwave shuts down after just a few minutes of operation and after a few minutes needs to have a clock/time/day etc reset. is this reparable by a homeowner?

F3 Key panel (touch pad) shorted This code will occur if a shorted key panel is detected continuously over 60 seconds. Replace key panel (also called touch pad).

I report from owner manual.

F3 means : Short circuit on key panel (your touch pad).
You get F3 error if a shorted key panel is detected for more than 60 seconds.
Solution: . Replace key panel (touch pad).

Try first unpluggign power cord for five minutes.

If you think that the problem may had been caused by water inside the keypad you can try using an hairdryer on the keypad, taking care not to melt the keypad plastic.
If that does not work, then replace the keypad.

You can buy replacements here. or Order GE Microwave Ovens Parts Here

We actually repair these for customers nationwide for only $39.95 (details here).

If you'd prefer to get a new board, they run $106.94 plus shipping, and you can order one here.

Please feel free to contact me directly if you need more help.

We're happy to help and we appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.

William E. Miller, AS-EET
[email protected]
http://www.microwavedisplay.com

F3 indicates a failed touch panel. It usually comes up after the key is shorted for 30 seconds.

We have *critical* safety, disassembly, and troubleshooting info at our site, and our link is at our listing here on FixYa: http://tinyurl.com/yzjozk

Essentially you unplug the oven from the wall outlet, and remove the control panel assembly as per the instructions at the site linked above.

There should also be a very helpful "mini-manual" hidden inside the unit behind the control panel. It's very helpful when troubleshooting.

Then unplug the keypad from the circuit board, heat up the keypad from the front with a hair dryer, then peel the old keypad off. You have to make sure all the old adhesive is off.

Then peel the backing paper from the new keypad and carefully press the new keypad in place. You need to be precise - you cannot apply it, peel it off, then reapply it.

If you would like to have us do this for you, we do that for $39.95 plus part costs.

You can usually find helpful exploded view diagrams and order parts by entering your full model number here: http://tinyurl.com/gv383

We're happy to help and we appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.

Mmmm it's so easy,
First disconect the power, take the cover off, moslitly there would be 5 screws and two tab's on the top.
inside on the right hand side the magnetron it's a sylver box measuring about 4 in x 4 in x 5 in. It will have a plasic cover moslitly that would have to be remove first then on the magnetron there is 4 crews and one connector.
It should fall downard after.
If you have a power supply after the secondary , that may also be your problem.

Regards

Bob

That's not the full model number, but the 363 prefix tells me it's made by GE.

For GE models, the F3 fault code means a bad or failing keypad, even though yours may be intermittent for now.

Once it fails solidly, you can order a new keypad. It's not too hard a job for the DIYer.

Feel free to contact me directly for tips on doing the job: http://tinyurl.com/yzjozk

You would need the full model number from the tag on the microwave.

You can enter that model number to find helpful exploded views and order parts here: http:///www3.sears.com (the 3 is correct)

We're happy to help and we appreciate your thoughtful rating of our answer.