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A washing machine can easily have one error code. One error code would be easy to figure out. However, two codes popping up on your Maytag washer display may be more problematic if you’ve never seen them before.
The Maytag washer code F03 E01 means two things. The main problem is your washer’s control board can’t sense the water level. This could be because of a bad pressure sensor, wiring, a bad control board, or a clogged air pipe. The other code tells you the door is locked.
A locked door on a washer is typical when the machine suddenly stops because the door is set to remain locked until all water is drained. If the machine stops in mid-cycle, the door won’t open. The main problem remains the water level issue and that is where you must look.
What Should I Do First?
The likely culprit is either the pressure switch hose or the air trap tube. The pressure switch hose can give you some trouble since it can get clogged with dirty water and yucky deposits
You should check the pressure sensor first since it is the most common problem with this error.
A pressure sensor messages the control board the water is at the right level. It also messages to start draining and also keeps the heating element from overheating.
You want to check the water level pressure hose first. It’s found between the pressure switch and the air trap. It can get pinched and twisted which can cause the F03 E01 error.
Move the hose around to ensure is it placed correctly and to see if it has any damage. You will want to disconnect it from the pressure switch and blow it out to check for blockages. Foam and water can be trapped inside too.
Put everything back together and start a cycle. A normal operation shows the problem was solved.
Replace the pressure hose if the error shows up again.
Inspect the Pressure Sensor
You will also want to look at the pressure sensor. It is found on the right side of the top rear of the case in most Maytag models. You may need to look at your owner’s manual to be sure. The sensor is round and has a nozzle and a thin hose connected to it.
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In some models, you may need to remove the back cover of the machine to get to the sensor.
Once you find it, you will need to check it with a voltmeter. Attach the black probe to the PS8 board connector, pin 8 (GND), and the red one to PS8, pin 4. The sensor should be replaced if there is no voltage or really low voltage.
The good news is a new sensor is super cheap. It only costs between $20 ad $30.
While you are looking at the sensor, make sure it is fully encased in the center unit. Also, see that the pressure sensor harness is securely attached. Fixing a loose-fitting sensor or harness could solve your problem.
The Air Trap Pipe
Grime and deposits can make their way into the air trap pipe. This is a pipe that is under the drain grate. It can have soap and moisture in it that triggers the error code.
The pipe is meant for airflow so it can press on the pressure switch. When it becomes clogged, it detects the wrong water level in the drum and sends the wrong signal to the control board.
You will need to be careful about unclogging the air trap pipe. You can use a tool called a “snake”, which is a cable that unclogs pipes. You may be able to use a rag with a cleaning solution on it on a short pole to clean the inside of the pipe.
Another option is a slim, round, scrub brush that can go up in the pipe and whish away the scum.
Check the Wiring
Wiring can become damaged when a washing machine is constantly vibrating. Chronic overloading, causing excessive movement, can also damage wiring. In this can, the error code will appear, then disappear indefinitely. It can reappear periodically.
You need to check the wiring with a multimeter. Visually look at it to see if there are some stripped, twisted, or broken ends. Finding damaged wiring means you will need to call your service technician to replace them.
Related: Here Is Why Washing Machine Shaking Too Much During Spin Cycle?
Consider Your Control Unit
Assuming everything else is working properly, the last thing that could be wrong is your control unit is faulty. You can know this is probably the root problem when the error comes on immediately after turning on the machine or when the washer begins its cycle.
You will need to call your service technician to replace a control board issue. The cost will be around $270 but could vary, depending on your service technician’s pricing.
Related: 5 Reasons Why Maytag Washer Is Not Turning On
FAQs
How do I clear an error code on my Maytag washer?
Once you fix the problem, you can remove a code by pressing the pause or cancel button two times and then pressing the power button once. If the code remains, unplug the washer for a minute. Remove any items from the wash and restart the washer on a clean washer cycle.
How can I reset my Maytag washer?
There are a couple of ways to reset your washer to a different cycle and clear the codes.
The first way is to press the power/cancel button, then pick a wash cycle, and then press the start-pause button.
The second way is to unplug it from the wall, wait a solid minute and plug it back into the wall outlet. You should see the codes are gone from your washer’s display.
How can I get into the diagnostic mode on my Maytag washer?
For the test, the washer needs to be on and in standby mode. That means it must be connected to power with all indicator lights off.
Press a button, any button except start, power, or stop, and hold for three seconds. Release and then do it again for three seconds. Do this a third time with the same button.
Indicator lights will flash and go off after five seconds. You will see an “88” on the display. You may also see fault codes show up. Write those down for your service technician or to research later.
If there are no errors, the lights will flash again and the “88″ will show. The machine will then go into test mode automatically within five seconds. You do nothing until the test is complete. Then press the power or stop button to get out of the program.
Can I drain my Maytag washer manually?
You can drain your Maytag washer manually. You will need a bucket and a pitcher.
Turn the power and water to the machine off. You will need to move the washer to get to the back of it. If the washer door isn’t locked, take out your laundry and scoop out as much water as you can. If it’s locked because water is in the drum, you will need to drain it all from the back.
To drain it from the back, take the drain hose out of the drain and put it in the bucket. The water will automatically drain. Once all the water is drained, the door should open. However, you may need to reset the washer to get the door lock to open.
Related: How To Effectively Clean Washing Machine?
Conclusion: Maytag washer code F03 E01
While this error could signal that there are several things wrong with your Maytag washer, the two most common things are clogged hoses or the pressure sensor. Any of those can be fixed as a DIY project in just a couple of hours at most, even by someone inexperienced. They are cheap, easy fixes that can be done quickly to get your washer back up and running.
Read: Why Maytag Washer Door Locked Flashing? Troubleshooting Guide
I have these same codes on our Maytag MHW5500FW1. The weird thing is when we try to turn it on it turns off and we have to try several times to get it to come on, even then it may stop mid wash.
^^same exact problem as noted above. Help!
Ugh, so I moved my hoses around, reattached but forgot to turn the cold faucet back on. Began a wash in Maytag front load machine but it quickly starting giving F03 E01 error and pump started running trying to empty drum. Manual only shows F09 error says takes 8min for pump to drain. After couple minutes had concern the pump would burn out. First thing I did found the drain filter but was not clogged and only 2-3 cups of water. Now every time I plug back power still the error code and drain pump keeps trying to run……Is there a quick reset that would fix this? Or should I just go through the steps you outline in your post about the F03 E01 error? Thanks so much for considering.
I’m literally having the same exact problem, did you find the solution?
The pump will run for 10min when in this mode and should shutoff. I can’t find the pressure sensor. When the above says “on the right side of the top rear of the case” is that looking from the front or back?
Whats the model number of your washer? I will tell you exactly where its located