Quick Reference — Maytag Dryer Error Codes
- F01 — Primary control board failure
- F02 — Keypad or user interface fault
- F03 — Exhaust thermistor fault
- F04 — Moisture sensor fault
- F05 — Humidity sensor or venting issue
- F06 — Drive motor fault
- E1 — Thermistor (temperature sensor) fault
- E2 — Cycling thermostat error
- E3 — High-limit thermostat tripped
- PF — Power failure during cycle
- AF — Airflow / vent restriction detected
- Repair cost: $150–$350 | $89 diagnostic — waived with repair
Maytag dryers are known for their durability, but when a fault code appears on the digital display it means the dryer's control system has detected a problem it cannot work around safely. This guide covers every Maytag dryer error code, explains what is causing it, and tells you whether it is a quick DIY fix or a job for a certified appliance technician.
Maytag Dryer Error Codes — Complete Table
These codes apply to Maytag electric and gas dryers with digital displays, including front-load and top-load models. Maytag and Whirlpool share the same appliance platform, so these codes are often identical across both brands.
| Error Code | Meaning | Common Cause | Fix | DIY? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F01 | Main control board failure | Control board internal fault, power surge damage | Reset power; if F01 returns, replace control board | Pro |
| F02 | User interface / keypad fault | Touchpad shorted, control panel wiring fault | Reset; press each button firmly; replace keypad if fault persists | Pro |
| F03 | Exhaust thermistor fault | Exhaust temperature sensor failed or disconnected | Test thermistor resistance; replace if open or shorted | Pro |
| F04 | Moisture sensor fault | Moisture sensor bars dirty or failed | Clean sensor bars inside drum with rubbing alcohol; replace if needed | Inspect First |
| F05 | Humidity / venting issue | Restricted exhaust vent, humidity sensor issue | Clean lint screen; inspect exhaust duct; clean or replace humidity sensor | Inspect First |
| F06 | Drive motor fault | Motor overload, failed motor, or motor relay on board | Check load size; reset; test motor windings; replace motor if faulty | Pro |
| E1 | Thermistor fault | Temperature sensor failed or wiring loose | Test thermistor; replace if resistance out of range | Pro |
| E2 | Cycling thermostat error | Cycling thermostat failed — dryer may not heat properly | Test thermostat continuity; replace if open at room temperature | Pro |
| E3 | High-limit thermostat tripped | Overheating from blocked vent or failed cycling thermostat | Clear exhaust vent blockage; replace high-limit thermostat | Inspect First |
| PF | Power failure | Power outage or dryer unplugged during cycle | Press Start to resume or Cancel to clear; not a component fault | DIY |
| AF | Airflow restriction | Clogged lint screen or blocked exhaust duct | Clean lint screen; inspect and clear full exhaust duct run | DIY |
How to Fix the Most Common Maytag Dryer Error Codes
AF — Airflow Restriction (Clogged Vent)
The AF code means the dryer's sensors have detected that exhaust air is not flowing freely. Work through the following steps:
- Remove and clean the lint screen — even a partially clogged screen significantly reduces airflow.
- Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the exhaust hose. Check for kinks, crushing, or lint blockages inside the hose.
- Go outside and check the exterior vent cap — a common problem is lint accumulation or a bird's nest blocking the damper flap.
- For longer duct runs (over 4 metres), use a dryer vent cleaning brush kit to clean the full length of the duct annually.
E1 — Thermistor (Temperature Sensor) Fault
The thermistor on a Maytag dryer is a small resistor that changes resistance as temperature changes. The control board uses it to monitor the air temperature in the drum and heating circuit. When it fails, the board cannot regulate heat safely and will stop the cycle and display E1.
On most Maytag dryers, the thermistor is located on the exhaust duct inside the dryer cabinet. It can be tested with a multimeter — a healthy thermistor reads approximately 10,000–50,000 ohms at room temperature (the exact range varies by model). If it reads open or significantly out of range, replacement is straightforward and the part is inexpensive.
E3 — High-Limit Thermostat Tripped
The high-limit thermostat is a safety device that cuts power to the heating element if the dryer overheats. When it trips and displays E3, the root cause is almost always a blocked exhaust vent causing heat to build up beyond safe limits.
F01 — Main Control Board Failure
F01 indicates the main electronic control board has detected an internal fault. Before ordering a replacement board, always try a full power reset:
- Press Pause/Cancel twice, then press Power to turn the dryer off.
- Unplug the dryer for 1–2 minutes.
- Plug back in and attempt a new cycle.
If F01 returns immediately or within the same cycle, the control board has failed internally and needs replacement. Control board replacement on Maytag dryers is a moderately complex repair but is significantly less expensive than buying a new dryer.
F04 — Moisture Sensor Fault
The moisture sensor inside the drum uses two metal sensor bars to measure how wet the laundry is and adjust the cycle length automatically. Over time, fabric softener residue coats these bars, causing them to give incorrect readings. Before assuming the sensor has failed:
- Locate the two shiny metal bars inside the drum near the lint screen opening.
- Wipe them with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol 70% or higher).
- Allow to dry and run a test cycle.
If F04 persists after cleaning the bars, the sensor circuit or associated wiring has failed and needs professional inspection.
F06 — Drive Motor Fault
The drive motor turns the dryer drum. F06 appears when the control board detects the motor is not running or is drawing abnormal current. Check that the dryer is not overloaded — too large or too heavy a load can trip the motor's thermal overload protector, causing a temporary shutdown that clears after a 30-minute cooldown. If F06 appears with a normal load after a cooldown period, the motor or its relay on the control board needs professional testing.
Maytag Electric vs Gas Dryer — Error Code Differences
Most Maytag error codes apply equally to electric and gas dryer models. The key differences:
- Gas models only: A gas valve fault will not necessarily trigger a standard F-code but will appear as a no-heat condition alongside E1 or E3 if the igniter or gas valve coils have failed.
- Electric models only: An open heating element will often trigger an E or F temperature code. The element can be tested for continuity.
- AF (airflow) and PF (power failure) codes apply to both types.
When to Call a Certified Technician
- F01 — control board failure after a failed reset; incorrect board diagnosis leads to expensive wrong-part purchases
- F06 — motor faults require disassembly of the dryer cabinet to access the motor and test it properly
- E3 after clearing the exhaust vent — if the high-limit thermostat has tripped even with a clean vent, there may be a heating element issue causing runaway heat
- Any code accompanied by a burning smell or visible scorch marks — stop using the dryer immediately
- Gas dryer with suspected gas valve or igniter fault — gas appliance repairs require certified technicians
Frequently Asked Questions — Maytag Dryer Error Codes
F01 on a Maytag dryer indicates a primary control board failure. The main electronic control board has detected an internal fault and cannot operate the dryer safely. Try a power reset (unplug 1–2 minutes). If F01 returns, the control board needs professional replacement.
AF stands for Airflow fault. The dryer's sensors have detected restricted airflow, almost always caused by a clogged lint screen or a blocked exhaust vent hose. Clean the lint screen after every load, and inspect the full exhaust duct from the dryer to the exterior vent cap. A clogged vent is also a fire hazard.
The E1 error on a Maytag dryer typically indicates a thermistor (temperature sensor) fault. The thermistor monitors the air temperature inside the dryer drum and heating circuit. If it reads out of range, the control board stops the cycle. A technician will test the thermistor resistance and replace it if faulty — typically an inexpensive repair.
PF stands for Power Failure. This is an informational alert shown when the dryer detects it lost power during a cycle. Press Start to resume or Cancel to clear. This is not a fault requiring repair unless PF appears without a known power interruption, in which case the control board or wiring may need inspection.
Yes. Press the Pause or Cancel button twice, then press Power to turn the dryer off. Unplug it from the wall outlet for 1–2 minutes, then plug back in and restart. This clears most temporary fault codes. If the code returns after the reset, the underlying component needs professional diagnosis and repair.
F06 on a Maytag dryer indicates a drive motor fault. The motor is not running or is drawing abnormal current. Check that the dryer is not overloaded — a very heavy load can trip the motor's thermal overload. If F06 appears with a normal-size load, the motor or its relay needs professional testing and replacement.
Maytag dryer repairs in Toronto and the GTA typically cost $150–$350 depending on the part required. Nick's Appliance Repair charges an $89 diagnostic fee that is waived when you proceed with the repair, plus $40 OFF any repair right now.