The E1 error on your Maytag Washer means the machine’s motor control board has detected a problem with the motor speed sensor, usually shown together as F2 E1. Maytag Washer F2 Error Code: Causes and Fixes covers the paired F2 code in more detail. In most cases this can be fixed by checking the motor wiring and connections before replacing any parts.

Error code E1
Meaning Motor speed sensor or tachometer fault detected by the motor control board
Severity Medium — washer will usually stop mid-cycle and won’t complete a wash
Time to fix 15–45 minutes
Tools needed Multimeter, screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)

What the F2 E1 error means

The F2 E1 code appears on Maytag washers when the control board loses its reading of motor speed, often because the tachometer signal is interrupted or the motor itself isn’t responding correctly. This is a paired code — F2 identifies the fault category (motor control) and E1 pinpoints the specific issue (speed sensing). It’s closely related to Maytag Washer F1 Error Code: Causes and Fixes, which covers the main control board side of similar faults.

Common causes

  • Loose or disconnected motor wiring harness
  • Worn or damaged carbon brushes on the drive motor
  • Faulty tachometer or speed sensor inside the motor
  • Failing motor control board
  • Drive belt slipping or off-track, causing irregular motor readings
  • Overloaded drum putting excess strain on the motor

How to fix the F2 E1 error

  1. Power cycle the washer — Unplug the machine for 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This clears temporary faults and may reset the control board.
  2. Reduce the load size — Remove some laundry and restart the cycle. An overloaded drum can make the motor struggle, triggering a false speed error.
  3. Check motor wiring connections — Unplug the washer, remove the rear or bottom panel, and inspect the wiring harness running to the motor. Reseat any loose connectors.
  4. Inspect the drive belt — Look for a worn, loose, or misaligned belt. A slipping belt can cause the motor to read incorrect speeds.
  5. Test the motor with a multimeter — Check resistance across the motor windings against the manufacturer’s spec sheet. Replace the motor if readings are outside range.
  6. Replace the motor control board — If wiring, belt, and motor all test fine, the control board itself may be faulty and need replacing.

FAQ

Can I keep using my washer if it shows F2 E1?
It’s best not to. The washer will likely stop mid-cycle repeatedly, and continuing to run it can put extra strain on the motor and belt.

Is F2 E1 the same as F2 alone?
No. F2 on its own points to a general motor control issue, while F2 E1 specifically flags a motor speed sensing problem, similar in structure to Maytag Washer F3 Error Code: Causes and Fixes and Maytag Washer F5 Error Code: Causes and Fixes, which also use paired codes for more precise diagnosis.

Do I need a technician to fix this?
Basic checks like power cycling, reducing load size, and inspecting visible wiring can be done yourself. Motor or control board replacement is more involved and often best left to a qualified appliance repair technician.