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Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE

S.A.F.E

Maytag codesMaytag dryer codes

S.A.F.E. system thermistor probe is either not connected or is damaged (open circuit).

First step from the service manual

Check S.A.F.E. thermistor probe connection and wiring; replace if damaged. Control immediately enters S.A.F.E. SYSTEM DISABLED mode.

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

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What OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE means on a Maytag dryer

The OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE error on a Maytag dryer indicates that the control board has detected an open circuit condition in the S.A.F.E. (Sensor Activated Fire Emergency) system thermistor probe. This thermistor continuously monitors temperature within the dryer to detect potentially dangerous overheating conditions. An open circuit means the control board is receiving no signal from the thermistor, which can result from a disconnected wiring harness, a broken wire in the circuit, or a failed thermistor probe component itself.

When this fault is detected, the control immediately enters S.A.F.E. SYSTEM DISABLED mode. This is a protective response: because the system can no longer verify safe operating temperatures, the dryer will not allow normal operation to continue. This behavior is intentional and prevents the dryer from running without functional fire-detection monitoring in place. The transition to disabled mode is automatic and will persist until the fault is resolved.

Diagnosing this error begins with a physical inspection of the S.A.F.E. thermistor probe and its associated wiring harness. Technicians should check for loose connectors, pinched or broken wires, and visible damage to the probe itself. If the wiring and connections appear intact, the thermistor probe should be tested for continuity. An open reading across the probe terminals confirms the component has failed internally and requires replacement. Simply resetting the control without correcting the underlying fault will not clear this error or restore normal dryer function.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE

  1. 01

    Disconnected thermistor probe connector

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring harness connector to the S.A.F.E. thermistor probe may have come loose due to vibration over time. Inspect the connector at the probe and at the control board for a secure fit.

  2. 02

    Failed thermistor probe (open circuit)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor probe itself may have failed internally, resulting in an open circuit. Testing the probe for continuity with a multimeter will confirm this; no continuity across the terminals means the probe must be replaced.

  3. 03

    Damaged wiring harness

    Part replacement

    A wire in the thermistor circuit may be broken, pinched, or burnt, preventing the signal from reaching the control board. A visual inspection of the full wire run and a continuity check of each conductor will identify a break.

  4. 04

    Corroded or damaged connector terminals

    Part replacement

    Moisture or heat exposure can corrode the terminals inside the thermistor probe connector, creating a high-resistance or open connection even when the connector appears seated. Inspect the terminals closely and clean or replace the connector if corrosion is found.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE

What does OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE mean on a Maytag dryer?
This error means the control board cannot detect a valid signal from the S.A.F.E. system thermistor probe, indicating an open circuit. The S.A.F.E. system is a built-in fire detection feature that monitors dryer temperatures, and when its thermistor is disconnected or fails, the dryer enters S.A.F.E. SYSTEM DISABLED mode and will not operate normally. The fault is caused by a disconnected connector, a broken wire, or a failed thermistor probe.
Can I fix the OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE error myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can attempt this repair by first inspecting and reseating the thermistor probe wiring connector, then testing the probe for continuity with a multimeter. If the probe reads open, it will need to be replaced. If the probe tests fine but the error persists, the wiring harness should be traced for damage. Always unplug the dryer before inspecting any internal components.
Is it safe to use my Maytag dryer with the OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE error?
No, you should not use the dryer while this error is active. The S.A.F.E. system thermistor is a fire-prevention component designed to detect dangerous overheating, and the dryer automatically disables itself when the probe is non-functional. Running the dryer without this safety system in place could allow an overheating condition to go undetected.
Will resetting my Maytag dryer clear the OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE error?
No, resetting the control will not clear this error unless the underlying fault is corrected first. The control checks the thermistor circuit on startup and will re-enter S.A.F.E. SYSTEM DISABLED mode immediately if it detects an open circuit. The thermistor probe connection must be restored or the probe itself replaced before the error will clear.
How much does it cost to repair the OPEN THERMISTOR PROBE error on a Maytag dryer?
If the fix is simply reseating a disconnected connector, there is no parts cost involved. If the thermistor probe itself has failed, the replacement part typically costs in the range of $15 to $50 depending on the specific model, with additional labor costs if a technician performs the repair. A service call from a professional technician generally runs between $100 and $200 including diagnosis and basic repairs.

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