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Error code reference

Maytag Dryer Error Code Upper dryer motor sense circuit error

Upper dryer motor sense circuit error on control board or due to power line interference

Upper dryer motor sense circuit error on control board or due to power line interference. Upper dryer cycles and upper dryer display disabled until diagnostic code is manually cleared.

First step from the service manual

Manually clear diagnostic code after correcting the issue.

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

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What Upper dryer motor sense circuit error means on a Maytag dryer

The upper dryer motor sense circuit error indicates that the control board has detected a fault in the circuit responsible for monitoring the upper dryer motor's operation. In stacked or combination Maytag dryer units, the control board continuously monitors the motor sense circuit to verify that the upper dryer motor is running correctly. When this monitoring circuit returns an unexpected signal or no signal at all, the board logs this diagnostic code and disables the upper dryer's cycles and display until the code is manually cleared.

This fault can originate from two primary sources: a problem on the control board itself, or interference from the incoming power line. Power line interference, such as voltage fluctuations, surges, or noise on the electrical circuit, can cause the control board to misread the motor sense signal and trigger this code even when the motor hardware is functioning properly. A faulty or degraded control board may also generate false sense readings internally, particularly if components on the board responsible for signal processing have failed.

Because the upper dryer cycles and display are fully disabled when this code is active, the machine will not operate until the diagnostic code is cleared manually. The first step after encountering this error is to address any potential power quality issues, such as verifying the dryer is on a dedicated circuit and checking for signs of electrical surges, then clearing the code through the diagnostic menu. If the code returns immediately or after a short period of use, the control board is the likely culprit and should be inspected or replaced.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Upper dryer motor sense circuit error

  1. 01

    Power line interference

    Wiring / connection

    Voltage fluctuations, surges, or electrical noise on the circuit can cause the control board to misread the motor sense signal and trigger this code. Check that the dryer is on a dedicated circuit and inspect for any recent power events such as surges or outages.

  2. 02

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    The control board itself may have a failed or degraded component in the motor sense signal processing circuit, causing it to report a fault even when the motor is functioning correctly. If the code returns after clearing, the control board is likely defective and will need replacement.

  3. 03

    Loose or damaged wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    A loose, corroded, or damaged wiring connection between the motor and the control board can interrupt the sense circuit signal. Inspect the wiring harness and connectors at both the motor and control board for signs of damage, corrosion, or poor contact.

  4. 04

    Upper dryer motor failure

    Part replacement

    If the motor itself has failed or is drawing abnormal current, the sense circuit may detect an out-of-range signal and log this error. Listen for unusual sounds from the upper dryer and check the motor for continuity if wiring and board connections check out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Upper dryer motor sense circuit error

What does Upper dryer motor sense circuit error mean on a Maytag dryer?
This error means the control board detected a fault in the circuit that monitors the upper dryer motor's operation. It can be triggered by power line interference or by a problem on the control board itself. When this code is active, the upper dryer cycles and display are completely disabled until the code is manually cleared through the diagnostic menu.
Will resetting the Maytag dryer clear the upper dryer motor sense circuit error?
Simply unplugging the dryer may not permanently clear this code. The diagnostic code must be manually cleared through the control board's diagnostic process after addressing the underlying cause. If the cause is not corrected first, such as resolving power line interference or replacing a faulty control board, the code is likely to return.
How do I fix the upper dryer motor sense circuit error on my Maytag dryer?
Start by checking the dryer's power supply for signs of electrical interference, surges, or a shared circuit with other high-draw appliances, then manually clear the diagnostic code. Inspect all wiring connections between the motor and control board for damage or corrosion. If the error returns after clearing, the control board or upper dryer motor may need to be tested further and potentially replaced.
Is it safe to use my Maytag dryer when the upper dryer motor sense circuit error is showing?
The upper dryer will not operate while this code is active, so there is no immediate safety risk from running it in that state. However, you should investigate the cause of the fault before continuing normal use, particularly if power line interference is suspected, as ongoing electrical issues can damage appliances over time. The lower dryer, if present, may still function normally.
How much does it cost to repair the upper dryer motor sense circuit error on a Maytag dryer?
If the issue is caused by power line interference and requires no parts, the repair cost may be minimal, covering only a service call ranging from roughly $75 to $150. If the control board needs replacement, parts and labor costs typically range from $200 to $400 or more depending on the specific model and local labor rates. Replacing the upper dryer motor, if that is the root cause, can carry a similar or higher cost depending on parts availability.

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