Maytag Washer Error Code F42

F42 on a Maytag washer indicates the control board has detected an open or shorted heater thermistor circuit. On the models that display this code, the heater thermistor is not actually installed, so the fault points to a wiring harness issue or a control board problem rather than a failed temperature sensor. It does not necessarily mean your washer cannot heat water, since the heating thermistor circuit is unused on these units.

Because the heater thermistor is not used on these models, the F42 code does not indicate a safety hazard related to overheating. However, if the error is causing the washer to stop mid-cycle or preventing it from completing a wash, you should address the underlying cause before continued regular use. Leaving wiring faults unresolved can occasionally lead to additional electrical issues over time.

Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If the issue is simply a loose connector in the wiring harness, the fix may cost nothing beyond your time. A wiring harness replacement can range from roughly 30 to 100 dollars for parts. If the control board needs to be replaced, parts alone typically run between 150 and 350 dollars, with professional labor adding an additional 100 to 200 dollars depending on your location and the service provider.

In some cases, yes. Start by unplugging the washer for several minutes to reset the control board and see if the code clears on its own. If it returns, inspect the wiring harness inside the cabinet for any loose connectors, damaged wires, or signs of corrosion. If the harness looks intact and the code persists, the control board may need to be replaced, which is a more involved repair but achievable for experienced DIYers.

A power reset, achieved by unplugging the washer for a few minutes and plugging it back in, may temporarily clear the F42 code. However, if the root cause is a wiring fault or a failing control board, the code will likely return after one or more cycles. A reset is a useful first step for diagnosis but is not a permanent fix if an underlying hardware problem exists.