Maytag · Dishwasher Serious

F3E2 — Thermistor or OWI Sensor Fault

Maytag lists the potential cause of F3E2 as the thermistor or the OWI sensor.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Verified against
producthelp.maytag.com ↗ Maytag Product Help: F3E2- Dishwasher

How to fix it

  1. Cycle power: unplug the dishwasher for 30 seconds (or, if it is hard-wired, switch off its breaker for 30 seconds), then restore power. If the code returns, schedule service.
  2. Power down and remove the lower spray arm, filters, and sump cover.
  3. Locate the thermistor / OWI on the sump and disconnect its harness.
  4. Measure resistance — should be roughly 50k ohms at room temperature (check tech sheet for exact spec).
  5. If open or way out of range, replace the sensor.
  6. If sensor tests good, inspect the harness from sump up to the ACU for chafing.
  7. Replace the ACU only after the sensor and harness check good.

Why it happens

Typical signs: No heating · Cold rinse only · Plastic items wet at end · Heat-dry option does nothing

  • Open thermistor Sensor element failed — reads infinite ohms.
  • Shorted thermistor wiring Pinched harness shorting to ground.
  • Disconnected sensor Connector pulled off during prior service.
  • Failed control board input ACU input stage failed.
  • OWI sensor Maytag names the OWI sensor alongside the thermistor for F3E2.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Maytag dishwasher thermistor / OWI sensor Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Maytag dishwasher codes

F1E1 F1E1 — Control Board Failure F2E1 F2E1 — Stuck Key on Control Panel F2E2 F2E2 — Main Control Communication Error F3E1 F3E1 — Thermistor / OWI Sensor Failure F4E1 F4E1 — Heater Circuit Fault F5E1 F5E1 — Door Switch Failure

All Maytag codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the F3E2 code mean on a Maytag dishwasher?

Maytag lists the potential cause of F3E2 as the thermistor or the OWI sensor.

What causes the F3E2 code on a Maytag dishwasher?

Open thermistor: Sensor element failed — reads infinite ohms. Shorted thermistor wiring: Pinched harness shorting to ground. Disconnected sensor: Connector pulled off during prior service.

Is it safe to keep using a Maytag dishwasher with a F3E2 error?

Limited use only. This is rated a serious-severity fault.

How do I fix F3E2 on a Maytag dishwasher?

Cycle power: unplug the dishwasher for 30 seconds (or, if it is hard-wired, switch off its breaker for 30 seconds), then restore power. If the code returns, schedule service. Power down and remove the lower spray arm, filters, and sump cover. Locate the thermistor / OWI on the sump and disconnect its harness.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: producthelp.maytag.com.