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Error code reference

Maytag Microwave Error Code E24

Microwave temperature reaches 500°F (260°C) in overheat condition; microwave cancels all functions.

Maytag codesMaytag microwave codes

Microwave temperature reaches 500°F (260°C) in overheat condition; microwave cancels all functions.

First step from the service manual

Check thermal or gas sensor, wiring, and PCB assembly.

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

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  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
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What E24 means on a Maytag microwave

E24 on a Maytag microwave indicates the control board has detected an overheat condition where the internal temperature has reached or exceeded 500°F (260°C). At this threshold, the PCB assembly triggers a full shutdown, canceling all active functions to prevent thermal damage or fire risk. The root cause is typically a failure in the thermal sensor or gas sensor circuit, a wiring fault between the sensor and the PCB, or a defective PCB assembly itself that is misreading or failing to regulate temperature data correctly.

For a homeowner, this means your microwave has gotten dangerously hot inside and has shut itself off as a safety measure. This is not a minor glitch. The appliance detected heat well beyond normal operating range and cut power to all functions to protect itself and your home. Running the unit again without diagnosing the cause is not safe.

Common triggers include a failed thermal sensor that sends no signal or a false high-temperature reading, damaged wiring that disrupts sensor communication with the control board, or a PCB assembly that has malfunctioned and can no longer accurately process temperature data. Any of these faults can cause the microwave to either genuinely overheat or incorrectly report an overheat condition.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E24

  1. 01

    Failed thermal sensor

    Part replacement

    The thermal sensor monitors internal cavity temperature and sends readings to the PCB. When it fails, it can send a runaway high-temperature signal or no signal at all, triggering the E24 overheat shutdown even if the unit is not actually at 500°F.

  2. 02

    Damaged or shorted wiring to the thermal or gas sensor

    Part replacement

    Wiring harness damage, burned connectors, or a short between the sensor and the PCB assembly can corrupt the temperature signal, causing the control board to read an overheat condition and cancel all functions.

  3. 03

    Actual ventilation blockage causing true overheat

    Wiring / connection

    Blocked vents, a failed cooling fan, or heavy grease buildup around the ventilation path can cause genuine heat accumulation inside the cavity, legitimately pushing internal temps to the E24 threshold.

  4. 04

    Defective PCB assembly

    Part replacement

    If the thermal sensor and wiring check out correctly, the PCB assembly itself may be malfunctioning, misprocessing temperature data, or failing to regulate the overheat detection circuit, causing false or unrecoverable E24 faults.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E24

What does the E24 error code mean on a Maytag microwave?
E24 means the microwave's control board detected an internal temperature of 500°F (260°C), which is classified as an overheat condition. When this threshold is reached, the PCB assembly shuts down all microwave functions automatically. The cause could be a failed thermal sensor, a wiring fault, a ventilation problem, or a defective PCB assembly.
Is it safe to use my Maytag microwave with the E24 error code active?
No. The E24 code represents a confirmed or suspected overheat condition at 500°F (260°C), and the microwave cancels all functions specifically because operating at or near this temperature poses a fire and damage risk. Do not attempt to bypass the shutdown or continue using the appliance until the thermal sensor, wiring, and PCB assembly have been inspected and the fault resolved.
How do I fix the E24 error code on my Maytag microwave?
Start by unplugging the microwave and checking for obvious ventilation blockages, such as clogged vents or heavy grease buildup around the fan area. If airflow is not the issue, the next step is testing the thermal sensor with a multimeter to verify it is reading within its correct resistance range. Also inspect the wiring harness between the sensor and the PCB for burned connectors or shorts. If the sensor and wiring are both good, the PCB assembly is likely the faulty component and will need replacement.
How much does it cost to fix a Maytag microwave E24 error?
Repair cost depends on the failed component. A replacement thermal sensor is typically $15 to $40 in parts, and replacing it is manageable for a careful DIYer comfortable working inside a microwave. A PCB assembly replacement costs $80 to $200 or more depending on the model, plus labor if a technician handles the job. If the microwave is older or out of warranty, compare the repair cost against the unit's replacement value before committing to PCB-level repairs.
Can I reset the E24 error on my Maytag microwave by unplugging it?
Unplugging the microwave and waiting 60 seconds can clear the error temporarily, allowing the unit to restart. However, if the underlying cause, such as a faulty thermal sensor, damaged wiring, or a defective PCB assembly, is still present, the E24 code will return. A reset without diagnosis does not fix the problem and does not make the microwave safe to use long-term.

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