Error code reference

Maytag Washer Error Code 17

Door actuator switch was not detected open since the final spin

Maytag codesMaytag washer codes

Door actuator switch was not detected open since the final spin - The door has been opened after a complete wash cycle.

First step from the service manual

1. Customer may have tried to repeat wash cycle without opening door. 2. Go to 'Door Lock Test'.

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

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What 17 means on a Maytag washer

Error code 17 on a Maytag washer indicates the control board has detected a possible short in the thermistor circuit. The thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor that reports water or air temperature to the control board during the wash cycle. A short circuit in this component causes the resistance reading to drop abnormally low or to zero, which the board interprets as a fault and halts normal operation to prevent potential damage.

For homeowners, the thermistor is a small sensor, usually clipped or mounted inside the wash tub area or on the water inlet path, that tells your washer how hot or cold the water is. When this sensor shorts out, the washer cannot accurately monitor temperature, which means it may refuse to run cycles that depend on precise water heating. The fault is most commonly caused by a failed thermistor itself, damaged wiring leading to the sensor, or a connection that has corroded or shorted against a grounded surface. In less common cases, the control board's thermistor input circuit can fail internally and produce the same code.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 17

  1. 01

    Failed thermistor (internal short)

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself develops an internal short, causing its resistance to drop to near zero ohms. This is the most direct cause of code 17 and requires the sensor to be tested with a multimeter and replaced if shorted.

  2. 02

    Shorted or pinched wiring harness to thermistor

    Part replacement

    The wiring harness connecting the thermistor to the control board can become pinched, chafed against a metal edge, or melted by heat, causing the wires to short together or to ground. This produces the same low-resistance signal as a failed thermistor.

  3. 03

    Corroded or damaged thermistor connector

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture intrusion into the thermistor wiring connector can cause corrosion that bridges the terminals and creates a short circuit condition. Inspect the connector for discoloration, greenish buildup, or melted plastic before replacing the thermistor itself.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board thermistor input circuit

    Part replacement

    If the thermistor and its wiring harness both test within normal parameters, the control board's internal circuit that reads thermistor resistance may have failed. This is the least common cause and typically requires board replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 17

What does error code 17 mean on a Maytag washer?
Error code 17 means the control board detected a possible short circuit in the thermistor, which is the temperature sensor used to monitor water temperature during the wash cycle. When the thermistor shorts, its resistance reading drops abnormally low, triggering the fault. The code points to the thermistor itself, its wiring harness, or its connector as the most likely source of the problem.
How do I fix error code 17 on a Maytag washer?
Start by unplugging the washer and locating the thermistor, then disconnect its wiring harness and use a multimeter to measure the thermistor's resistance. A shorted thermistor will read near zero ohms rather than the expected resistance range listed in your model's service manual. If the thermistor reads shorted, replace it. If it reads correctly, inspect the wiring harness for pinches, chafing, or melted insulation and replace any damaged sections. If both components check out, the control board may need replacement.
Is it safe to keep using my Maytag washer when error code 17 is showing?
Running the washer with code 17 active is not advisable for cycles that depend on water temperature control, such as hot or warm wash cycles, because the control board cannot accurately monitor temperature. Using the washer in this condition risks improper washing results and may cause the board to interrupt cycles mid-wash. It is best to diagnose and resolve the thermistor short before continuing regular use.
How much does it cost to repair error code 17 on a Maytag washer?
If the thermistor is the failed component, the part typically costs between $15 and $40 depending on your model, and replacing it is a moderate DIY repair requiring basic tools and a multimeter. If the wiring harness is damaged, a replacement harness runs $20 to $60. A control board replacement is the most expensive outcome, with parts ranging from $100 to $250 or more plus labor if you hire a technician. Professional diagnosis and repair labor typically adds $75 to $150 on top of parts costs.
Can I test the thermistor myself to diagnose error code 17?
Yes, testing the thermistor is a practical DIY step. Unplug the washer, access the thermistor for your specific model, disconnect the harness connector, and set a multimeter to measure resistance in ohms. A healthy thermistor will show a specific resistance value at room temperature as listed in your model's technical sheet, typically several thousand ohms. A reading of zero or near zero confirms a short and means the thermistor needs replacement. If the reading is within spec, move on to inspecting the wiring harness and connector for damage.

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