Whirlpool range taking AUTO clean literally...

I'm not sure where exactly to post this because I'm not certain what model numbers I'm actually dealing with (not able to check them now, unfortunately). SO, I'll post here. I have a Whirlpool built-in oven that occasionally decides to auto-clean itself. I'll walk by and the display will show an amout of time left for the clean cycle. I can reset it back to the clock, but it inevitably will crank up again at some point. It could be minutes, hours, or days. This is not an issue I am particularly concerned about because the burner does not come on nor is my ability to use the oven hindered by it. A friend has a Whirlpool electric range with digital oven controls. His exhibits the same issue as mine, only his IS problematic because the computer not only engages the clean cycle timer, but also locks the oven door and cranks up the burners (wasting electricity, adding wear/tear on the oven, and posing a substantial fire hazard). I've pulled the circuit board from the unit and there is no visible damage to it. I've contacted a local appliance dealer for a replacement and the part is over $200. I hesitate to advise my friend to spend that kind of money because I'm convinced this is a pervasive problem for Whirlpool. Who's to say the replacement part won't crap out in short order? I would be just as happy if I could completely disable the auto clean cycle by cutting out a resistor or something, but I have no idea where to start. Can anybody out there throw me a bone? I'll be more than happy to get model numbers for both units if it is going to make a difference, but as these two models are very different and exhibiting the same symptoms, I'm thinking it's a problem across the board. Thanks!