Maytag · Dishwasher Serious

F3E2 — Thermistor Open / Out of Range

Companion to F3E1 — the temperature sensor is reading impossibly high or low (open or shorted). The control disables heat to prevent damage.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Moderate

How to fix it

  1. Power down and remove the lower spray arm, filters, and sump cover.
  2. Locate the thermistor / OWI on the sump and disconnect its harness.
  3. Measure resistance — should be roughly 50k ohms at room temperature (check tech sheet for exact spec).
  4. If open or way out of range, replace the sensor.
  5. If sensor tests good, inspect the harness from sump up to the ACU for chafing.
  6. 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.

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 — User Interface 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?

Companion to F3E1 — the temperature sensor is reading impossibly high or low (open or shorted). The control disables heat to prevent damage.

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?

Power down and remove the lower spray arm, filters, and sump cover. Locate the thermistor / OWI on the sump and disconnect its harness. Measure resistance — should be roughly 50k ohms at room temperature (check tech sheet for exact spec).

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.