Maytag Washer Error Code F5: How To Fix It

The Maytag washer code F5 is displayed when there is an issue with your lid locking. The most common cause is when there is some clothing or other obstruction in the lid preventing it from locking properly. It is important to remember that it is normal for your door not to lock for about 10 seconds after the cycle starts. 

We have put together an easy-to-follow guide on how to fix a Maytag washer error code F5.

The following Maytag models are covered in this guide:

MAT12PDB

MAT12PDD

MAT12PRB

MAT12PRD

MAT12PDL

MAT12PSL

MAT14PD

MAT14PR

What does Maytag suggest?

Maytag suggests that you follow these steps to check a front-load washer door lock: 

• If the error occurs when the cycle is just starting, remember the door will not lock for about 15 seconds after the cycle starts. This is to be expected.
• The lock should be inspected and can be cleaned. It should be checked regularly for soap and lint build-up.

If the error code remains, cycle power to the washer. Unplug it for 20 to 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. We have added our own steps to these if you are still having trouble.  

Check for obstructions 

The first thing you should do is open your Maytag washer and see if there is something like a piece of clothing or other object preventing the lid from closing and locking properly. This is a surprisingly common cause of the F5 error code and also the simplest solution.  

If there is nothing obvious stopping the door from closing and locking, move on to the next step. 

Check the lock striker 

A few key components play a part in the washer door locking. Any one of these could be acting up, so you should check them all off one by one. Start with the lock striker, as it could have gotten damaged or bent out of alignment. The lock striker is the component that presses down on the lid switch. 

You should visually check that it has not been damaged or bent out of shape. 

Check for build up 

If your lock striker is in good condition, move on to checking for build-up in the system. It is common for small pieces of lint to accumulate over time, and if they are not cleaned, they can actually prevent the lid from locking. The same can occur with washing machine soap powder build-up. 

You should visually inspect the lock for any lint or soap build-up and clean it thoroughly if necessary. It is possible to clean the lock without taking it apart completely. You have to be very careful not to break the lock in the process because it could create its own problems. One way of cleaning out the lid lock that has worked for some customers is to use compressed air. 

Check your lid switch

The lid switch is an essential piece of safety equipment in your washing machine. It prevents your washer from running with the lid open. Thankfully it is a relatively cheap part, and it is easy to replace yourself. 

First, you should visually inspect the wires to ensure they are not damaged and have not come loose. You can test it using a multimeter, and if you find it faulty, all you need to do is to unhook the wires from the faulty switch and attach them to the replacement switch.

Last-effort solutions

Here are some quick fixes you can try before calling a service technician for a professional opinion. 

• You can try to reset your Maytag washer. Unplugging it from its power source for 10 minutes should do the trick. This will generally clear the code and allow you to carry on, especially if you have cleared all the obstructions out of the lid lock mechanism. 
• Press and hold the end of cycle button for 15 to 20 seconds, which should reset the washer and clear the codes. This should be a last-ditch effort because it will not fix the problem, only clear the code. 

Other F5 error codes 

On a Maytag washing machine from 2018 or before, there are three possible error codes that will show up next to the F5 error. The F5 E2 and F5 E3 errors both mean that the issue is with the door not locking. This means you can follow the steps above in order to clear the error. The other error that may occur is the F5 E4 error code. 

In the 2019 or later models, there are four possible error codes. The F5 E1, F5 E2, and F5 E3 all mean that the issue is with the door not locking. This means you can follow the steps above to clear the error. Same as with the earlier models, there is also an F5 E4 (or dr) error code. 

The F5 E4 (or dr) error code indicates that your Maytag washer has run for three consecutive cycles without the door being opened. This means it is an easy fix; all you have to do to clear this code is to open and close the door and restart the cycle. 

However, if that does not work, follow these steps:

1. Power your washing machine down by unplugging it from its power source. 
2. After 5 minutes, power your machine up by reconnecting power.
3. Open and close the door, ensuring it is shut properly.
4. Start a new cycle.
5. Keep an eye on the washer for the first few minutes to ensure the error code does not display again.

If you are still having issues with your washing machine after trying all the troubleshooting methods, it is time to call in an expert. They will be able to perform more advanced tests and then fix the error.