Thermador error code · Burner Won't Ignite
Thermador Star Burner Ignition Failure (Won't Light / Keeps Clicking)
A Thermador Star Burner that clicks but won't light usually has a fouled igniter, misaligned cap, or worn spark module. Cleaning and reseating often helps.
A Thermador Star Burner that clicks but will not light is almost always caused by a dirty or wet spark igniter, a misaligned or food-clogged burner cap, or a worn spark/ignition module. Cleaning the igniter and properly reseating a cool burner cap resolves many cases; persistent clicking or no spark points to the igniter or spark module.
Burner Won't Ignite, explained
Thermador Star Burner gas cooktops and the cooktop section of Pro Grand and Pro Harmony ranges use an electronic spark igniter at each burner. Turning a knob to the lite position sends sparks to ignite the gas. Ignition fails when the spark is weak, mispositioned, or shorting to a wet or fouled surface, or when gas flow to the burner is blocked. There is usually no numeric code; the symptom is clicking without a flame, or no clicking at all.
Severity:Service recommended · Appliance:Star Burner Gas Cooktop
Why Burner Won't Ignite appears
Boilovers and spills carbonize on the igniter tip and burner cap, the cap gets bumped out of alignment so the spark misses the gas, and moisture from cleaning or a recent spill makes the igniter spark to the wrong place. Over time the spark electrode or the shared spark module weakens, and clogged burner ports starve the burner of gas.
How Burner Won't Ignite shows up
- Burner clicks repeatedly but never lights
- One burner clicks while a knob for a different burner is turned
- Clicking continues even after the burner lights
- Weak, yellow, or uneven flame, or flame only on part of the star
- No clicking and no spark at all from one burner
What usually causes it
- Carbonized food or grease on the spark igniter tip
- Burner cap misaligned, wet, or seated on debris
- Moisture in or around the igniter after a spill or cleaning
- Worn spark electrode or failing shared spark/ignition module
- Clogged burner ports starving the burner of gas
Which part Burner Won't Ignite points to
- Spark igniter / electrode — Replaced when the electrode is cracked or no longer sparks after cleaning
- Spark (ignition) module — Replaced when multiple burners click weakly or continuously, indicating the shared module
- Burner cap or burner base — Replaced if warped, cracked, or corroded so the cap will not seat correctly
What you can safely check
- Turn the burner off, let it cool, then lift and reseat the burner cap squarely on its base
- Wipe the igniter tip and burner ports clean and dry with a soft brush or cloth
- Make sure no spill, water, or cleaner is pooled around the igniter, and dry it fully
- Confirm the gas supply is on and other burners light, and check the breaker since the spark needs power
When Burner Won't Ignite needs a technician
Many ignition problems are owner-clearable by cleaning and reseating a cool burner cap and drying the igniter. If the burner still will not light, or it clicks continuously or sparks weakly, a technician is needed to replace the spark electrode or the shared spark module, which involves accessing the gas burner assembly.
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Thermador Burner Won't Ignite — questions
Why does my Thermador Star Burner keep clicking but won't light?
Usually the spark igniter is dirty or wet, or the burner cap is misaligned so the spark misses the gas. Clean and dry the igniter and reseat a cool cap squarely; if it still will not light, the electrode or spark module may be worn.
Can I fix a Thermador burner that won't ignite myself?
Often yes. With the burner cool, reseat the cap, brush the igniter tip and ports clean, and dry away any moisture. These safe steps fix many cases. If clicking continues or there is no spark, call a technician.
Why does one burner click when I turn on a different burner?
The igniters share a spark module, so a fouled or shorting igniter can make a neighboring burner click. Cleaning and drying the wet or dirty burner usually stops the cross-clicking; otherwise the module or electrode needs service.
Is it safe to use a burner that clicks continuously?
Continuous clicking after the flame is lit means the spark keeps firing and the burner may be releasing extra gas during failed ignition. Turn it off, clear and dry the burner, and if it persists have it serviced rather than relighting repeatedly.
What part fixes a Star Burner that won't spark at all?
No spark from one burner points to a cracked spark electrode or a failed spark module. A technician tests which and replaces it, since it requires access to the burner and ignition wiring under the cooktop.
Do you charge to diagnose a burner ignition problem?
Our diagnostic visit is a flat $89 and covers identifying the failed igniter or module. Part replacements are typically done in the same visit and carry a 365-day warranty. Call (650) 668-1554 to schedule.
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