Kenmore Gas Stove Top Burner Igniter – What Part Fixes This and How to Replace It

Understanding the Problem

What the igniter is and why it matters: The burner igniter (often called the spark electrode or ignitor) creates the high-voltage spark that lights the gas at each stove burner. On many Kenmore ranges the ignition system also includes the burner switch (behind the control knob) and a spark/ignition module. Problems with any of these components can lead to no spark, continuous clicking, weak spark, or intermittent ignition. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1) Safety first: shut off power to the range (unplug or switch off the breaker) and turn the gas knobs to OFF. Work with the room well ventilated if you recently smelled gas. 2) Observe & listen: Turn a burner knob to the light position. Do you hear clicking? Do you see a spark at the electrode? If you hear clicking but see no spark at the burner, the electrode or wiring is the likely culprit. 3) Visual inspection: Remove the grate, burner cap and burner head. Look at the ceramic electrode tip for cracks, carbon/food deposits, or a bent electrode. Carbon build-up or a chipped ceramic insulator commonly prevents sparking. 4) Clean the electrode: With the power off, gently clean the ceramic and metal tip with a soft brush and isopropyl alcohol or a clean cloth. Remove any debris from the burner head seating area too. 5) Check electrode position & gap: The metal tip should extend to the burner slot area and be about 1/8"–3 mm from the adjacent metal surface (or as specified by your model). If it's pushed back or bent, reposition carefully. 6) Test for spark in the dark: Restore power, turn the burner on and watch (with low room light) for a visible spark. If you hear clicking but still see no spark, proceed to wiring checks. 7) Inspect wiring & connections: With power off, disconnect the igniter wire and inspect the connector for corrosion, frayed wire, or a loose crimp. Wiggle wires while testing to see if spark appears intermittently. 8) Swap test: If your range has identical burners, swap the electrode and wiring harness between a working burner and the bad burner. If the problem follows the electrode, replace the electrode; if it stays with the location, the switch or harness is likely bad. 9) Check ignition switch: Remove the control panel knob/switch and test the ignition switch for continuity with a multimeter when turned to the ignite position. A dead switch will not send voltage to the electrode. 10) Check/replace spark module: If multiple burners fail to spark (or you hear no clicking at all), the central igniter/spark module or the control board may be faulty. Replacing the spark module is often the fix for several nonworking burners. 11) Replace the defective part: If the electrode/igniter is cracked or failed, remove the mounting screw(s), disconnect the wire, and install the new igniter (reverse the removal steps). If replacing a switch or module, document wire locations or photograph connectors before disconnecting. 12) Reassemble and test: Reinstall the burner head, cap and grate. Restore power and test each burner through a few full ignition cycles. How to fix (practical): Most single-burner ignition problems are fixed by cleaning or replacing the spark electrode/igniter or repairing a corroded wire/connector. If multiple burners fail, replace the ignition/spark module or check the control board. Always match replacement parts to your Kenmore model number. Safety note: Turn off electrical power and gas before doing any disassembly. If you smell a strong gas odor and cannot isolate it, stop and call your gas utility or a qualified technician. If you’re not comfortable working with gas or internal wiring, hire a trained service technician.

Common Symptoms

No clicking or spark when knob is turned; clicking sound but no ignition; weak or intermittent spark; burner ignites then clicks continuously; gas smell without ignition.

Common Causes

• Dirty or carbon-fouled spark electrode (igniter)
• Cracked or damaged ceramic insulator on the electrode
• Loose, corroded or broken wiring/connectors between electrode and spark module
• Faulty ignition switch (behind the control knob)
• Failed spark/ignition module or control board

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

Frequently Asked Questions