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Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code F3E2

Moisture sensor strip is open or shorted; this fault code only appears when in Service Diagnostic mode.

Maytag codesMaytag dryer codes

Moisture sensor strip is open or shorted; this fault code only appears when in Service Diagnostic mode.

First step from the service manual

See Test #5: Moisture Sensor, page 25.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What F3E2 means on a Maytag dryer

The F3E2 error code indicates the control board has detected a short circuit in the exhaust thermistor circuit. Specifically, the thermistor resistance has dropped below 500 ohms, which corresponds to a temperature reading above 250°F. This is outside the normal operating range and signals to the control board that the sensor is either shorted internally or that the wiring connecting it has developed a short to ground or another conductor. Diagnosis begins with TEST #4a: Thermistors on page 16 of the service manual.

The exhaust thermistor is a small temperature-sensing component located in the exhaust duct of your dryer. It monitors the air temperature leaving the drum and feeds that data to the control board so the dryer can regulate heat properly. When this sensor shorts out, it sends an abnormally low resistance reading that the control board interprets as an extreme temperature condition. The dryer cannot safely manage heat output without accurate exhaust temperature data, so it stops operation and displays F3E2.

In most cases, the thermistor itself has failed internally and needs replacement. However, damaged wiring between the sensor and the control board can produce the same low-resistance reading. A thorough diagnosis following the thermistor test procedure will confirm whether the fault is in the sensor, the wiring harness, or less commonly, the control board itself.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F3E2

  1. 01

    Failed exhaust thermistor (internal short)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself has shorted internally, causing its resistance to drop below 500 ohms. This is the most common cause of F3E2 and typically requires replacing the thermistor.

  2. 02

    Shorted wiring harness to exhaust thermistor

    Part replacement

    The wiring between the exhaust thermistor and the control board has shorted, either due to chafing, pinching, or heat damage. A short in this circuit produces the same sub-500-ohm reading as a failed thermistor even when the sensor itself is intact.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded thermistor connector

    Wiring / connection

    A connector that has corroded or partially failed can create an unintended low-resistance path in the circuit, triggering the short condition. Inspecting and cleaning or reseating the connector may resolve the code without replacing any parts.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and all associated wiring test within specification, the control board itself may be misreading the sensor circuit. This is the least likely cause but should be evaluated after all other components are confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F3E2

What does error code F3E2 mean on a Maytag dryer?
F3E2 means the control board detected a short circuit in the exhaust thermistor circuit. The thermistor resistance dropped below 500 ohms, which corresponds to a temperature reading above 250°F. This tells the control board the sensor or its wiring has failed and the dryer cannot accurately monitor exhaust temperature. The dryer will stop operating until the fault is resolved.
Is it safe to use my Maytag dryer when F3E2 is displayed?
No. The exhaust thermistor is a safety-critical component that helps the control board prevent overheating. With a shorted thermistor, the dryer cannot accurately track exhaust temperatures, which creates a potential fire hazard from uncontrolled heat. Do not continue using the dryer until the thermistor circuit has been diagnosed and repaired.
How do I fix F3E2 on a Maytag dryer?
Start with TEST #4a: Thermistors on page 16 of the Maytag service manual for your model. This test walks you through measuring the exhaust thermistor resistance and checking the wiring harness for a short. In most cases the thermistor has failed and needs replacement. If the thermistor tests good, inspect the wiring harness for damaged insulation or shorted conductors before suspecting the control board.
How much does it cost to fix F3E2 on a Maytag dryer?
An exhaust thermistor is typically an inexpensive part, usually between $10 and $30 depending on the model. If you perform the repair yourself using the thermistor test procedure in the service manual, parts cost is the primary expense. A professional repair visit will add labor charges, generally $100 to $200 depending on your area, making total repair cost reasonable compared to replacement.
Can a bad wiring harness cause F3E2 on a Maytag dryer?
Yes. A wiring harness that has shorted due to chafing, heat damage, or pinching can pull the thermistor circuit resistance below 500 ohms and trigger F3E2 even when the thermistor itself is functioning correctly. The TEST #4a thermistor procedure in the service manual includes steps to isolate whether the fault is in the sensor or the wiring, so follow the full test sequence before ordering a replacement thermistor.

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