Does this guide apply to your appliance?

Match the brand, device type and complete display code. The same code can mean something different on another product family or market; a series name does not confirm every model in that series.

Model and family references in this record:

Maxima SeriesFront-Load HE WashersMHW Series

Likely causes

  • Detergent drawer or cartridge clogged with hardened soap or fabric softener residue
  • Bulk dispenser cartridge empty, unseated, or misaligned
  • Dispenser drive linkage or actuator jammed by debris
  • Faulty dispenser motor or internal position sensor
  • Loose or corroded wiring between the dispenser motor and the central control unit

What to try

Clean the detergent drawer and housing

Easy
  1. Pull the dispenser drawer out until it reaches its stop point.
  2. Depress the release lever or tab located at the back of the drawer to remove it completely.
  3. Remove all removable inserts, including the detergent, bleach, and fabric softener cups.
  4. Rinse the drawer and inserts thoroughly under warm running water to dissolve all encrusted detergent.
  5. Wipe out any detergent residue inside the dispenser cavity in the machine using a damp cloth.
  6. Reinstall the inserts into the drawer and push the drawer firmly back into the housing until it clicks into place.

Source for this check: producthelp.maytag.com

Check the bulk dispenser cartridge (if equipped)

Easy
  1. Open the dispenser drawer and inspect the bulk detergent cartridge.
  2. Check that the cartridge has sufficient liquid HE detergent.
  3. Ensure the cartridge is inserted completely and locked flush in its correct position.

Source for this check: producthelp.maytag.com

Power cycle the washer to clear the code

Easy
  1. Press the Power or Cancel button to cancel the current cycle.
  2. Unplug the washing machine from the electrical wall outlet (or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker).
  3. Leave the machine powered off for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the control board to reset completely.
  4. Plug the machine back in or turn the circuit breaker on.
  5. Run a short cycle without clothes to verify if the dispenser operates and the error clears.

Source for this check: producthelp.maytag.com

Isolate power and schedule service for mechanical or motor failure

Professional

This is a service referral, not a do-it-yourself repair procedure.

  1. If cleaning the dispenser and resetting power do not resolve the error, the dispenser motor, linkage, or wiring may have failed.
  2. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet to isolate it from power.
  3. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician to inspect the internal dispenser motor, actuator, and wiring harness.

This step is marked caution. Stop if you are not qualified to continue.

Source for this check: producthelp.maytag.com

The code returned or the check did not help?

Avoid repeated resets and do not select a replacement part from the code alone. Record the exact code, full model number, when it appeared, and the checks you tried with their results. Share these details with the manufacturer or service technician.

Disconnecting power does not establish that internal components are safe to touch. This guide does not authorize opening electrical components or bypassing safety devices.

Related error codes

Maytag SdMaytag Washing Machine Error Code Sd: Excessive Suds Detected Maytag F5 E2Maytag Washing Machine Error Code F5 E2: Door or Lid Lock Failure Maytag F7 E1Maytag Washer F7 E1 Error Code: Motor Speed or Tachometer Signal Problem Maytag F8 E1Maytag Washing Machine Error Code F8 E1: Water Fill or Flow Detection Fault Maytag F9 E1Maytag Washing Machine Error Code F9 E1: Long Drain Samsung 1CSamsung washing machine error code 1C: water-level sensor or leakage issue

Useful guides

Washing Machine Will Not Drain: Safe Checks Before Booking a TechnicianA blocked filter, kinked hose, plumbing restriction, unbalanced load, or excess suds can stop a washer from dr... Why Your Washing Machine Shakes or Moves—and Safe Leveling ChecksShaking can come from an uneven load, shipping bolts left in place, or an unstable floor. Try these safe check... Too Much Foam in Your Washer: Safe Steps to TakeExcess suds can lengthen a cycle, interfere with spinning and leave laundry wet or poorly rinsed. Check your d...

References