Maytag Dryer Error Code TRAC

TRAC indicates that the exhaust thermistor circuit has gone open, meaning the control board is reading a resistance above 50 kΩ from the thermistor, which corresponds to a temperature below 18°F. This reading is not a real temperature condition but instead signals a broken or disconnected sensor circuit. The fault will set after one minute of this condition in Run mode, or instantly during Factory Diagnostic Mode.

Operating the dryer without a functioning exhaust thermistor means the control board cannot properly track exhaust temperatures during the cycle. This removes a layer of thermal protection that the dryer relies on to prevent overheating conditions. It is best to resolve the TRAC fault before running the dryer again.

Disconnect power to the dryer before beginning any testing. Locate the exhaust thermistor in the exhaust duct path and disconnect its wiring connector. Set a multimeter to resistance (ohms) mode and probe across the two thermistor terminals. At room temperature, a functioning NTC thermistor will show a finite resistance reading, while a failed open thermistor will display OL or infinite resistance, confirming the sensor needs replacement. Also check the wiring harness for continuity from the sensor connector back to the control board.

Resetting the code by cycling power will clear the display temporarily, but the fault will return as soon as the control board checks the thermistor circuit again during the next run cycle. Because the dryer cannot accurately monitor exhaust temperature without a working thermistor, continued use without repair is not recommended and the underlying problem must be corrected.

If the repair only requires reseating a loose connector or cleaning corroded terminals, there may be no parts cost at all, though a service call from a technician typically runs between $75 and $150 for diagnosis and labor. Replacing the exhaust thermistor is generally inexpensive, with parts costs commonly falling between $15 and $50 depending on the specific model. If the control board is at fault, parts and labor combined can range from $200 to $400 or more.