The most common cause of this condition is customer ignorance. Because of infrequent use, many users forget how to set the self-cleaning cycle and conclude that there is an oven failure. There are several steps involved. Electronic self-cleaner can be the least obvious of all. Overall common problems are failure to:

1. Set both controls to the correct position.
2. Raise the door shield (if present).
3. Push the lock button (if present) and close the latch.
4. Properly set the timer.

It is wise to locate the operation manual and carefully go through the directions step-by-step before concluding that there is really a problem.

Other Self-Cleaning Problems

As mentioned, the most common problem centers around the latch assembly. Many latches are only sheet metal and easily damaged. The latch assembly includes up to three switches that monitor the latch arm position. Access to the latch usually requires removal of the oven from the cabinet. In a few cases, it can be accessed through the front grill or console. Many GE latches are mounted on the back of the oven and operated by long lever arms. Careful observation and testing of the latch switches will almost always locate the problem. Frequently, a locked oven must be removed from the cabinet and unlocked before it can be repaired.

In theory, a bad locking thermostat will result in a locked oven, but this situation is not usually the case.

If after careful checking the latch is not at fault, the next step is locating a circuit diagram and a circuit analysis (See Manual 5: Electricity Made Simple )included in Business Programs. It is unusual, but not impossible, for a selector or thermostat to control bake normally but not self-clean. Most, but not all of the wiring and components, are used in both situations. Such a failure is more common in older conventional control systems particularly Thermodor. Most of the other brands use hot-wire relays and low voltage systems that remove heavy current from the selector and thermostat. This design lowers the failure rate of internal contacts.

A few designs include door monitor switches on hinges in addition to latch switches that for safety confirm door closure. Check for their presence and correct operation before any circuit tracing.