Whirlpool, Maytag & KitchenAid Oven Temperature Sensor Parts — Models & Compatibility

If your Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, or Amana oven runs too hot, won't heat evenly, or refuses to start altogether, you're likely dealing with a failed temperature sensor. This replacement part (12001656) fits over 200 models across these brands and supersedes older part numbers like AP4009009, PS1570174, and 74004943. It's the most common sensor failure point in these ovens.

Is This the Right Part for Your Model?

Check your model number — it's usually on a label inside the oven door frame or along the front panel edge. Match it against the compatibility list below. This sensor fits Amana AER series ranges (like AER5515QAQ, AER5715QAW), plus corresponding Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid models that share the same oven platform. If your oven's showing error codes or temperature swings of 50+ degrees, this sensor's your fix.

About This Replacement Part

The 12001656 is a long-probe oven temperature sensor that monitors cavity temperature and sends resistance readings to your control board. When it fails, you'll see symptoms ranging from little to no heat when baking, oven running excessively hot, or the touchpad going completely unresponsive. Some units won't even start a cycle — the board's waiting for a sensor reading that never comes. This part also causes issues after self-cleaning cycles when the door won't unlock, because the sensor isn't reporting that the oven's cooled down. It's a direct OEM replacement that restores accurate temperature control across all cooking modes.

Common Failure Symptoms

• Little to no heat when baking — Element won't fire because the board thinks the oven's already at temperature
• Oven is too hot — Sensor reads low resistance, board keeps heating past setpoint
• Oven not heating evenly — Intermittent sensor readings cause erratic element cycling
• Will Not Start — Control board won't initiate any cycle without valid sensor data
• Element will not heat — Either bake or broil element stays cold despite commands
• Touchpad does not respond — Some control boards lock out inputs when sensor circuit fails
• Door won't open after self cleaning cycle — Sensor not reporting safe temperature for latch release

Compatible Model Series

This sensor covers a wide range of Amana electric ranges in the AER5515, AER5715, AER5725, and AER5735 series, along with equivalent Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air models built on the same platform. Check the full compatibility list below — if your model number matches, this is your part.

Installation Overview

The sensor mounts at the back wall of the oven cavity, usually upper left or right side. You'll need to remove the back panel inside the oven (a few screws), disconnect the wire harness, unscrew the mounting bracket, and reverse the process with the new sensor. Most techs get this done in 15-20 minutes. Make sure to route the sensor wire away from the broil element — heat damage to the wire insulation causes the same symptoms as a bad sensor.

Part Numbers & Cross-References

This part replaces: AP4009009, PS1570174, 74004943, 12001554, 12001656VP. If you've got any of those numbers written down from a previous repair estimate, this is the updated replacement.