Installation guide
Owner’s manual
Error Codes
Are all stove igniters universal?
No. Stove igniters are not universal; the correct igniter for Kenmore model 79070603013 must match the original style (surface spark electrode vs. oven glow-bar igniter), mounting, and wiring so the burner lights reliably and the gas valve operates correctly. Use the 79070603013 installation guide to confirm the ignition type and lighting checks.
What “universal” really means
Many “universal” igniter kits are designed to fit multiple ranges by using adapters or wire splices, but they still must match the application.
- Surface burners typically use a spark electrode that clicks/sparks at the burner
- Oven bake/broil typically uses a glow igniter that heats up, then the oven gas valve opens
- Connectors vary (plug style, wire length, heat-resistant leads)
- Brackets and mounting holes must line up
- Heat rating and durability matter near the burner flame
How to choose the right igniter for this Kenmore gas range
Start by identifying whether you are fixing a surface burner that will not spark, or an oven that will not light.
| Symptom | Most likely igniter type | Common related part to check |
|---|---|---|
| Surface burner does not click/spark | Surface burner electrode/igniter | Spark module, igniter switch/harness |
| Oven takes too long to light or never lights | Oven burner igniter (glow type) | Oven gas valve, wiring |
| One surface burner clicks but will not light | Spark present but gas/flame issue | Burner cap/head alignment, clogged ports |
For oven ignition problems on this model, a common replacement is the range oven burner igniter 5304509706.
Quick checks before replacing parts
Follow the lighting checks in the installation instructions; surface burners should typically ignite within about 4 seconds once air is purged from the gas line, and the oven burner can take 30 to 60 seconds to light after you start Bake.
- Confirm the burner cap is centered and seated (it should “click” into place)
- Try a different burner knob to compare spark behavior
- Listen for rapid clicking at LITE (surface ignition)
- For oven: look for the igniter to glow before the burner lights
- Inspect for loose or heat-damaged wires at the igniter
Why it matters
Using the wrong igniter can cause delayed ignition, weak ignition, or repeated clicking; that leads to poor cooking performance and can stress components like the spark module or oven gas valve.
Last updated: February 2026
How long should a Kenmore gas stove last?
A Kenmore gas range like model 79070603013 typically lasts about 15 years with normal household use. Keeping burners clean, ensuring proper ignition, and addressing weak heating early helps you get the full life out of key parts like igniters, valves, and the oven temperature sensor.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most gas ranges land in the same general window, but these factors move the needle:
- Cooking frequency (daily high-heat use shortens life)
- Cleaning habits (spills and grease can clog burner ports and stress igniters)
- Ventilation (reduces heat and grease buildup around controls)
- Power quality (ignition systems and control boards rely on steady power)
- Timely part replacement (fixing ignition or temperature issues prevents bigger failures)
What “wear items” usually fail first
On model 79070603013, these are common service items that can show up before the range is “worn out”:
- Surface ignition problems: igniter switches, spark module, electrodes
- Oven not heating or slow to light: oven burner igniter
- Temperature swings: oven temperature sensor
- Door heat leaks: oven door seal
If your oven takes longer than about 30 to 60 seconds to light after you start Bake, that points to an ignition or gas delivery issue worth addressing. For operating and care details, use the 79070603013 owner's manual.
Quick “repair vs. replace” guide
| What you’re seeing | Most likely direction | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Burners click but don’t light reliably | Repair ignition components | Prevents gas odor, uneven cooking |
| Oven slow to ignite or no bake heat | Replace igniter first | Igniters commonly weaken over time |
| Oven temp off by 25°F+ consistently | Check sensor and calibration | Protects baking results and prevents overheating |
| Heavy heat leaking around door | Replace door seal | Improves efficiency and protects controls |
Why it matters
A gas range can keep running well past the midpoint of its life if ignition and temperature control stay healthy. Small issues (slow ignition, weak flame, heat leaks) often increase stress on the oven gas valve, control board, and wiring.
Helpful parts for common age-related fixes (model 79070603013)
- Range oven burner igniter 5304509706 for slow or failed oven ignition
- Range oven temperature sensor 316233903 for inaccurate oven temperatures
- Frigidaire range oven door seal 316239700 for heat leaking around the door
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to fix a gas oven igniter?
Fixing a gas oven igniter on Kenmore model 79070603013 typically costs $150 to $325 when a technician does the repair (parts plus labor). If you replace the igniter yourself, the cost is usually the igniter price plus basic supplies; use the 79070603013 installation guide for safety and access details.
Typical cost breakdown
- Service call/diagnosis: often included in the total, or billed separately
- Labor: commonly 1 hour (varies by region and access)
- Part cost: depends on OEM vs. alternate parts and availability
- Optional add-ons: wiring repair, connector replacement, cleaning burner area
| Repair approach | What you pay for | Typical total cost |
|---|---|---|
| DIY igniter replacement | Part only (plus tools) | $75 to $125 |
| Professional repair | Part + labor + trip/diagnosis | $150 to $325 |
What’s normal for this model’s igniter system
On this style of Kenmore gas range, the oven igniter should glow and the burner should light after a short delay. A normal ignition sequence is roughly 30 to 60 seconds from turning Bake on to seeing flame. If the igniter glows but the burner does not light within about a minute, the igniter is a common failure point.
If you’re pricing the part for this model, the range oven burner igniter 5304509706 is a common replacement item.
Signs you’re paying for more than just an igniter
- Igniter does not glow at all (could be wiring, control, or switch issue)
- Burner lights late, then cycles off quickly
- Strong gas smell with no ignition (stop and shut off the range)
- Repeated clicking or ignition problems on multiple burners (could involve the spark module)
Why it matters
A weak igniter can prevent the oven gas valve from opening reliably, leading to no heat, slow preheat, or inconsistent baking temperatures. Getting ignition back to normal restores safe, predictable oven performance.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a gas stove igniter is bad?
On Kenmore gas range model 79070603013, a bad igniter typically shows up as slow or no ignition: the burner may click or the oven igniter may glow but the burner does not light within the normal time window. Use the checks in the 79070603013 installation guide to confirm what “normal” ignition looks like before replacing parts.
Quick symptoms to look for
- Surface burner: you hear sparking but the burner does not light within about 4 seconds after air is purged from the gas line.
- Oven burner: the igniter should glow and the burner should light within about 60 seconds after you set Bake.
- Delayed ignition: burner lights late with a “whoosh” sound.
- Weak ignition: igniter glows dimly (oven) or spark is inconsistent (surface).
- Gas smell without ignition: shut the control OFF and ventilate the area.
What “normal” ignition timing is for this model
The installation instructions for this range describe these normal checks:
| Burner type | What you should see/hear | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| Surface burner | Repeating spark at the electrode; flame appears when gas reaches burner | About 4 seconds (after air is purged) |
| Oven bake/broil | Igniter “glows” like a light bulb; gas valve opens; flame appears | About 30 to 60 seconds |
If your timing is consistently longer than this, the igniter circuit is a top suspect.
Simple checks before you replace anything
- Make sure burner caps are centered and firmly seated; a mis-seated cap can prevent lighting.
- Purge air from the supply line by leaving the knob in LITE until the burner ignites (first-time or after gas work).
- Verify you have electrical power; the oven uses electric ignition.
- Inspect for cracks, heavy corrosion, or burned wiring at the igniter and harness.
- If you have a multimeter, check for proper voltage to the igniter and look for damaged wires (a common cause of weak ignition).
When a part replacement is likely
If the oven igniter glows but the oven burner will not light reliably within the normal window, replacing the oven igniter is a common fix for this model; use the exact match range oven burner igniter 5304509706.
Why it matters
A weak igniter can cause delayed ignition, poor burner combustion, and inconsistent oven temperatures. Catching it early helps prevent repeated no-heat situations and reduces stress on the gas valve and control system.
Last updated: February 2026
What does F31 mean on a Kenmore gas stove?
On the Kenmore gas range model 79070603013, the F31 error code points to an oven temperature sensing problem, most commonly the oven temperature sensor circuit (sensor, wiring, or control input). The range may stop heating to prevent unsafe temperature operation; reset power once, then troubleshoot the sensor circuit.
What to check first (fast, safe steps)
- Turn the oven off; let it cool completely.
- Reset the range by switching off the breaker for 1 minute, then restore power.
- If F31 returns, inspect the sensor harness connection at the back of the control area (loose plug, corrosion, pin damage).
- Look for pinched or heat-damaged wires along the rear panel and oven cavity pass-through.
- If you recently moved the range, confirm it is installed and grounded correctly per the installation guide.
Likely causes and the most common fix
In most cases, F31 is triggered by a sensor circuit reading that is out of range.
| What’s wrong | What you’ll notice | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature sensor open/shorted | F31 appears quickly after starting Bake | Replace the sensor |
| Loose or damaged sensor wiring | Code comes and goes, especially after moving range | Repair/secure wiring and connectors |
| Control board input issue | Sensor tests good but code persists | Control diagnosis and possible board replacement |
For this model, the correct replacement part is the range oven temperature sensor 316233903.
How we recommend testing the sensor (basic DIY)
- Disconnect power at the breaker before accessing wiring.
- Remove the sensor connector and test resistance with a multimeter.
- Most oven sensors read about 1,080 ohms at room temperature (a reading far off that value indicates a bad sensor or wiring).
- If resistance is normal, check continuity from the sensor plug back to the control.
For meter basics, use our how to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video.
Why it matters
A bad temperature sensor can cause underheating, overheating, or repeated shutdowns. Fixing the sensor circuit restores accurate oven temperature control and helps prevent nuisance error codes during Bake or Broil.
Last updated: February 2026
Where to find Kenmore gas range model number?
On Kenmore gas range model 79070603013, the model and serial number plate is located on the right-hand surface of the oven front frame. Open the storage drawer, warmer drawer, or broiler drawer (depending on your configuration) to see the identification plate; confirm the location in the installation guide.
Where to look on the range
Check these spots in order (they are the most common for this model style):
- Open the bottom drawer (storage, warmer, or broiler drawer) and look at the right-hand oven front frame
- Look for a metal or foil identification plate with model and serial numbers
- Use a flashlight; the plate can be easy to miss in low light
- Write down the model number, serial number, and lot number/letter
What the identification plate tells you (and why it matters)
Besides the model number, the identification plate typically lists details you may need for parts and service.
| Plate detail | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Model number | Ensures parts fit your exact Kenmore range |
| Serial number | Helps match production changes |
| Lot number/letter | Useful when multiple versions of a part exist |
| Fuel type and pressure | Confirms natural gas vs. LP setup and adjustment |
Tips for ordering the right parts
Once you have the model number, match parts by description and ID for the best fit.
- For “won’t ignite” oven issues, a common repair is the range oven burner igniter 5304509706
- For “oven temperature seems off,” check the range oven temperature sensor 316233903
- For “no spark on surface burners,” the range spark module 5304508269 is a common suspect
Why it matters
Kenmore ranges often have multiple similar-looking versions; using the exact model number from the identification plate prevents ordering the wrong igniter, sensor, control, or burner components.
Last updated: February 2026
