Maytag Dishwasher Error Code F1-E1

F1-E1 means the control board has detected that its internal K2 pilot relay is stuck in the closed position and cannot open to cut power to the components it controls. This is an electrical fault that typically results from a short circuit in one of the loads connected to that relay. The dishwasher should not be operated until the fault is diagnosed and repaired. Both the control board and any shorted load components will need to be replaced.

No, it is not safe to continue using the dishwasher while F1-E1 is present. A stuck-closed relay means a load may remain energized when it should be off, which can cause overheating, component damage, or a fire hazard. Disconnect power to the dishwasher until the fault has been fully diagnosed and all shorted components have been replaced.

Repair costs depend on which components need to be replaced. A control board replacement typically falls in the range of $150 to $350 for the part alone, and a shorted component such as a pump motor or valve solenoid can add $30 to $150 or more to that total. If you hire a technician, expect to add $100 to $200 in labor costs. Getting a diagnostic visit from a technician first can help clarify exactly which parts are needed before committing to the full repair.

A knowledgeable DIYer can attempt this repair, but it requires working with the dishwasher's electrical components and using a multimeter to test for shorts. The correct approach is to disconnect power first, then test all loads connected to the K2 relay for short circuits, and replace any shorted components along with the control board. If you are not comfortable testing electrical components, a qualified appliance technician should perform the repair.

Resetting the dishwasher by disconnecting power will temporarily clear the displayed error, but the fault will return once the control board runs its diagnostics again. Because a stuck relay is a physical hardware condition, not a software glitch, it cannot be resolved by resetting alone. The underlying cause, either the shorted load, the failed relay, or both, must be corrected before the error will stop appearing.