The F3 error on your Maytag Washer means the control board has detected a problem with the water temperature sensor circuit, usually because the thermistor is faulty or its wiring has failed. In most cases you can fix this yourself by checking the sensor and its connections before replacing any parts.

Error code F3
Meaning Water temperature sensor (thermistor) fault detected by the control board
Severity Medium — the washer may still run cycles but water temperature control will be inaccurate or the machine may stop mid-cycle
Time to fix 20–45 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver

What the F3 error means

Maytag washers use a thermistor to monitor the temperature of water entering the drum so the control board can select the right heating and cycle settings. When the F3 code appears, the board has either received no signal from this sensor or a signal that falls outside the normal resistance range. This is often paired with a second digit, such as F3 E1 or F3 E2, which points to whether the fault lies with the sensor itself or the wiring connecting it to the control board.

This error is closely related to other sensor-based codes like the one covered in Maytag Washer F1 Error Code: Causes and Fixes, since both involve the control board losing trusted input from a component.

Common causes

  • Faulty or failed water temperature thermistor
  • Loose, corroded, or disconnected wiring harness at the sensor
  • Damaged connector pins on the control board
  • Sensor wire pinched or damaged during a previous repair
  • Control board failure (less common but possible)
  • Moisture or corrosion inside the wiring harness connector

How to fix the F3 error

  1. Power cycle the washer. Unplug it for two minutes, then plug it back in to clear a temporary control board glitch before assuming a hardware fault.
  2. Locate the thermistor. On most Maytag models, it is mounted on or near the water inlet valve or the tub, depending on your specific washer type.
  3. Inspect the wiring harness. Check for loose connectors, corrosion, or visible damage along the wire running from the sensor to the control board.
  4. Test the sensor with a multimeter. Compare the resistance reading against your model’s tech sheet specifications; a reading far outside range confirms a faulty thermistor.
  5. Replace the thermistor if faulty. Order the correct part number for your model and swap it out, making sure the connector clicks fully into place.
  6. Check the control board as a last step. If the sensor and wiring test fine but the error persists, the control board itself may need replacing.

FAQ

Can I still use my washer with an F3 error showing?
You may be able to run a cycle, but water temperature won’t be regulated properly, which can affect wash performance and, in some cases, cause the cycle to pause or stop.

Is the F3 error the same on every Maytag washer model?
The core meaning is consistent, but the exact sensor location and secondary code digits can vary between top-load and front-load models, so always check your model’s manual.

How do I know if it’s the sensor or the wiring causing the F3 code?
A multimeter test on the thermistor itself will tell you if the part is within spec; if it tests fine, the fault is more likely in the wiring or connector.