Door latch switch
Common interlock fault part on appliance no-start errors.
Maytag dishwashers share the Whirlpool platform and display errors as function/error code pairs (like F6E4) on models with digital displays. Older models without displays use flash code sequences — this guide covers both.
To clear error codes on Maytag dishwashers: Press and hold the Start/Cancel or Heated Dry button for 5 seconds to cancel the cycle. If the error returns when you restart, the problem needs fixing.
To enter diagnostic mode: Hold Heated Dry for 5 seconds until a sequence begins.
Maytag Dishwasher Error Code Quick Reference
| Code | Meaning | Common Fix |
|---|---|---|
| F6E4 | Water fill timeout | Check supply valve, clean inlet screen |
| F7E1 | Heating element fault | Test/replace heating element |
| F8E4 | Overflow detected | Check float switch, fix overfill cause |
| FAE1 | ATC thermistor fault | Test/replace temperature sensor |
| 7 flashes | Door latch fault | Check latch alignment and switch |
| 8 flashes | Fill timeout | Same as F6E4 |
| 9 flashes | Heating fault | Same as F7E1 |
F6E4 — Water Fill Timeout
The dishwasher didn’t fill with water within the time limit.
Fix:
- Confirm the shutoff valve under the sink is fully open.
- Check the supply hose for kinks.
- Clean the inlet valve screen — unscrew the supply hose at the inlet valve, pull out the small mesh screen, rinse it under the faucet.
- If supply is confirmed clear, test the inlet valve with a multimeter (500–1500 ohms on solenoid terminals; open circuit = failed valve).
F7E1 — Heating Element Fault
The heating element failed to raise water temperature, or the element itself has burned out.
Fix:
- Test the heating element for continuity with a multimeter. Access from inside the tub (remove lower rack, the element ring sits at the bottom of the tub). No continuity = open element, replace it.
- Also test the thermal fuse near the element — if the fuse is blown, replace it along with the element.
F8E4 — Overflow Detected
The float switch in the base detected excess water — the dishwasher thinks it’s overfilling.
Fix:
- Check the float switch located at the bottom front of the tub interior (a small plastic float that should move up and down freely). If it’s stuck in the up position due to debris, clean it.
- If the float moves freely but F8E4 persists, the float switch itself has failed.
FAE1 — ATC Thermistor Fault
The Automatic Temperature Control thermistor (water temperature sensor) has malfunctioned.
Fix: Locate the thermistor — usually attached to the door lining or tub wall. Test with a multimeter (should change resistance with temperature). Replace if reading is open circuit or fixed.
Flash Codes (Older Maytag Dishwashers Without Digital Display)
Older Maytag dishwashers without a digital display communicate errors through blinking light patterns. Count the blinks in a sequence:
- 7 blinks — Door latch fault
- 8 blinks — Fill problem
- 9 blinks — Heating element fault
Parts You May Need
- Maytag dishwasher water inlet valve
- Maytag dishwasher heating element
- Maytag dishwasher door latch assembly
- Dishwasher thermal fuse
When to Call a Technician
The inlet valve and heating element are accessible DIY repairs on most Maytag dishwashers. If you’re getting multiple error codes or the machine won’t run at all, a technician can run the diagnostic cycle and isolate the failed component.