Maytag Dishwasher Error Code F6E2

Maytag Dishwasher Error Code F6E2 — What It Means

The F6E2 error on a Maytag dishwasher typically indicates a motor/motor control fault — the appliance’s wash motor or its control circuit is not responding within expected parameters. This can happen when the circulation or wash motor is stalled, draws excessive current, has an internal failure, or when the motor control module (or related wiring/connectors) reports an abnormal speed or feedback signal. When F6E2 appears, you may notice the dishwasher stops mid-cycle, fails to wash dishes properly, makes unusual grinding or humming noises, shows longer-than-normal cycles, or emits a burning smell in severe cases. Beyond poor cleaning performance and longer drying times, a persistent motor fault can pose safety risks (overheating, electrical shorts) and lead to secondary damage such as a burned control board or a seized pump.

Common Causes

• Failed or stalled wash/circulation motor (motor bearings or windings damaged)
• Faulty motor control board or drive circuit (motor controller module)
• Damaged or loose wiring/connectors between motor and control board
• Obstruction in the pump, impeller, or sump causing motor overload
• Shorted or intermittent main control board sending incorrect signals
• Failed motor start capacitor (on models that use one)
• Moisture or corrosion on harness connectors causing intermittent faults

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Reset the dishwasher: turn power off at the breaker for 1–2 minutes, then restore power to clear temporary faults and see if the code returns.
2. Listen and observe: run a short cycle and listen for humming, grinding, or silence from the wash motor area. Note whether the pump attempts to run or not.
3. Check for obstructions: remove the lower rack and inspect the sump area, filter, and impeller for debris, glass, or broken dishes that can jam the motor/pump.
4. Inspect wiring and connectors: with power off, check the motor harness and control board connections for loose pins, burnt connectors, or corrosion. Re-seat connectors firmly.
5. Test the motor (multimeter): with the dishwasher unplugged, measure motor winding continuity per the service manual. Infinite or shorted readings indicate a bad motor.
6. Test the motor control board: visually inspect for burnt components or swollen capacitors. If you have a service manual, follow the board diagnostic steps (or consult a tech) to check output voltages during a run command.
7. Check for ground/shorts: inspect for wiring chafing where wires could short to chassis causing erratic motor behavior and fault codes.
8. Run diagnostics mode: put the dishwasher in its diagnostic/service mode to capture live error history and verify whether F6E2 is repeated with the same test step.
9. Swap or bypass (advanced/professional): if available and you are qualified, try a known-good motor control board to isolate whether the board or motor is at fault.
10. Replace the failed component: once isolated (motor, control board, or wiring), replace the faulty part with OEM or approved replacement and retest all cycles.
11. Call a professional: if you can’t isolate the fault, the motor or control electronics test abnormal, or you’re uncomfortable working with live circuits, contact an authorized Maytag technician.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Run the dishwasher regularly to keep seals and motor bearings from seizing.
• Clean the filter and sump monthly to prevent debris from jamming the impeller.
• Avoid placing large food particles or broken glass in the dishwasher — pre-rinse heavily so food doesn’t accumulate.
• Check and clean spray arms so they don’t redirect water into the pump area causing imbalance.
• Inspect door gaskets and seals periodically to prevent water intrusion near electrical components.
• Keep the area under the dishwasher dry; fix any slow leaks promptly to prevent corrosion of connectors.
• Use the correct detergent and recommended amounts to avoid excessive suds that strain pumps.
• Avoid overloading the dishwasher — crowded loads can cause physical obstructions that jam impellers.
• When storing the appliance or during renovations, protect the electrical connectors from moisture and dust.
• Have the dishwasher serviced every 1–3 years by a qualified technician to evaluate motor and electronics health.
• Replace worn rack wheels or dislocated racks that can drop and jam the spray arms or impeller.
• Secure the dishwasher to the cabinets to reduce vibration that may wear wiring and connectors.
• Use a surge protector if your home has unstable power to protect the control board from spikes.
• Address unusual noises promptly rather than waiting for a complete failure.
• Keep the owner’s manual and model number accessible for quick reference during troubleshooting.
• When replacing parts, use OEM components or high-quality equivalents to ensure compatibility and longevity.

FAQs

Q: What exactly does F6E2 mean on my Maytag dishwasher?
A: F6E2 generally points to a motor or motor-control related fault — the wash or circulation motor isn’t responding correctly or the control electronics detect abnormal motor behavior.

Q: Can I keep using the dishwasher if F6E2 appears?
A: It’s not recommended. Continuing to run the dishwasher risks further damage (burning the motor or control board) and could create a safety hazard. Power it off and investigate.

Q: Is this an easy fix or will I need a technician?
A: It depends. If the issue is a simple obstruction or loose connector you can resolve it yourself. If the motor windings, motor control board, or main control board is faulty, professional diagnosis and repair are recommended.

Q: How much will a repair cost?
A: Costs vary by part and labor. Motor replacement or control board replacement is typically moderate to high in cost; expect a professional repair estimate rather than a simple low-cost fix.

Q: Will replacing the motor always fix F6E2?
A: Only if the motor itself is the root cause. If the motor is fine but the control board or wiring is failing, replacing the motor won’t clear the code. Proper diagnosis is key.

Q: Can water leaks cause F6E2?
A: Indirectly — water can corrode connectors or damage the control board, which can then trigger motor-related faults. Keep the interior dry and address leaks quickly.

Conclusion / Safety Notice

F6E2 is a serious operational fault that usually involves the dishwasher’s motor or motor control electronics. While some causes (debris jams, loose connectors) are user-serviceable, many require electrical testing and component replacement. Working on motors and control boards involves risk of electric shock and potential further damage to the appliance if diagnostics are performed incorrectly.

If you’re not comfortable with electrical testing or cannot isolate the problem after basic troubleshooting, turn off the power and contact a certified Maytag technician. Professional service ensures correct diagnosis, safe handling of electronic components, and restoration of normal, safe operation.

For immediate next steps: turn off power to the unit, check the sump for obstructions, reseat connectors, and if the code persists, schedule a professional repair to avoid safety hazards or additional damage.