Oven / Range Repair Guide

Gas and electric ranges fail in distinct ways, but both have cheap fixable components. An oven that won't heat usually needs a $25 igniter, not a $1,500 replacement.

Avg Lifespan

13-15 years

Replace Cost

$600-2,000

Common Fixes

3 problems

Common Problems

85% likely easy 20-30 minutes

Oven Not Heating

Oven temperature doesn't reach the set point, or stays cold

Cause: Failed bake element (electric) or weak igniter (gas)

Parts from

$25

See Fix →

70% likely easy 10-15 minutes

Burner Not Working

One or more stove burners won't heat up

Cause: Burned out coil element or faulty infinite switch

Parts from

$15

See Fix →

55% likely easy 15-20 minutes

Oven Not Reaching Temperature

Oven heats but never reaches the set temperature

Cause: Faulty temperature sensor or calibration drift

Parts from

$22

See Fix →

Is It Worth Fixing?

A oven / range replacement costs $600-2,000. Most common repairs cost $10-50 in parts. If your unit is less than 13-15 years old, repairing it is almost always the better financial decision. Even if you're not comfortable with DIY repairs, a service call ($100-200) plus parts is still cheaper than replacing the entire unit.

When to replace: If the unit is past its expected lifespan, has had multiple failures, or the compressor/motor needs replacing (these are expensive components that signal end-of-life).

Brands We Cover

GEWhirlpoolSamsungLGFrigidaire

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a oven / range typically last?

A typical oven / range lasts 13-15 years. With regular maintenance, many last even longer. If yours is approaching the end of its expected lifespan and a major component fails (compressor, motor), replacement may be more cost-effective.

Is it worth repairing a oven / range or should I replace it?

If the repair costs less than 50% of a new oven / range ($600-2,000) and the unit is under 75% of its expected lifespan (13-15 years), repair is usually the better choice. Most common oven / range repairs cost $10-50 in parts.

Can I fix a oven / range myself?

3 of 3 common oven / range problems are rated "easy" and can be fixed by most homeowners with basic tools (screwdriver, multimeter). Always disconnect power before starting any repair.

What tools do I need to repair a oven / range?

Most oven / range repairs require a multi-bit screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and multimeter. Total tool investment: under $50. We list the specific tools needed for each repair in our guides.