Error code reference

Maytag Washer Error Code F5E4

Lid not opened between cycles; user presses START after consecutive cycles without opening lid, or main…

Maytag codesMaytag washer codes

Lid not opened between cycles; user presses START after consecutive cycles without opening lid, or main control cannot detect lid switch opening/closing properly.

First step from the service manual

See TEST #8: Lid Lock.

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

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What F5E4 means on a Maytag washer

F5E4 is a lid monitoring fault triggered when the Maytag washer control board detects that the lid has not been opened between consecutive wash cycles. The control board tracks lid lock activity between cycles and flags this error when the user presses START on a new cycle without having opened the lid since the previous cycle completed. The lid lock system is the primary component involved, and the fault is designed to ensure the lid mechanism cycles through its full range of motion regularly.

For homeowners, this error usually means the washer noticed you started another load without opening and closing the lid between cycles. This is a built-in check the washer performs to confirm the lid lock is functioning properly. In many cases, simply opening the lid fully, closing it, and restarting the cycle will clear the code.

If the error persists even after opening and closing the lid between cycles, the lid lock assembly itself may be faulty. The lid lock may not be sending a proper signal to the control board confirming the lid was opened, even when it physically was. Maytag's first diagnostic step for F5E4 is TEST #8: Lid Lock, found on page 18 of the service manual, which verifies whether the lid lock is operating and communicating correctly.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F5E4

  1. 01

    Lid not physically opened between cycles

    Wiring / connection

    The most common trigger for F5E4 is simply the user pressing START on a new cycle without opening the lid after the previous cycle finished. The control board requires a lid open event between cycles to confirm lid lock operation.

  2. 02

    Faulty lid lock assembly

    Part replacement

    If the lid lock is not registering an open state even when the lid is physically lifted, the control board never receives confirmation that the lid was opened. This causes F5E4 to reappear on subsequent cycle starts even when the user opens the lid correctly.

  3. 03

    Damaged or disconnected wiring harness to lid lock

    Wiring / connection

    A broken, pinched, or disconnected wire between the lid lock assembly and the control board can prevent the open and close signals from reaching the board, causing the control to log F5E4 as if the lid was never opened.

  4. 04

    Failed main control board

    Part replacement

    If the lid lock passes TEST #8 and the wiring harness is intact, the control board itself may not be correctly reading the lid lock signals. A failed control board will repeatedly trigger F5E4 regardless of lid activity.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F5E4

What does F5E4 mean on a Maytag washer?
F5E4 means the washer's control board detected that the lid was not opened between consecutive wash cycles before the user pressed START again. The washer monitors lid lock activity as a functional check between cycles. If the control board does not register a lid open event after a completed cycle, it throws F5E4 on the next start attempt.
How do I fix F5E4 on a Maytag washer?
Start by opening the lid fully, waiting a moment, closing it, and then pressing START again. This satisfies the control board's requirement for a lid open event between cycles and clears the code in most cases. If F5E4 returns after you open and close the lid, run TEST #8: Lid Lock on page 18 of the service manual to check whether the lid lock assembly is correctly signaling the control board. A lid lock that fails this test should be replaced.
Can I still use my Maytag washer with F5E4 showing?
The washer will not start a new cycle while F5E4 is active. Opening and closing the lid before pressing START often clears the code immediately, allowing normal use to resume. If the code keeps coming back, continued use is limited until the lid lock is diagnosed and repaired, since the control board cannot confirm the lid lock is functioning correctly.
How much does it cost to fix F5E4 on a Maytag washer?
If the fix is simply opening the lid between cycles, there is no cost. A replacement lid lock assembly typically costs between $30 and $80 for the part. If you hire a technician, expect an additional $80 to $150 in labor, depending on your area. Wiring harness repairs can vary based on the extent of the damage, but are often less expensive than replacing the lid lock. A failed control board is the most expensive repair, with parts ranging from $150 to $300 or more.
Why does my Maytag washer keep showing F5E4 even after I open the lid?
If F5E4 returns after you open and close the lid, the lid lock assembly is likely not sending a correct signal to the control board confirming the lid was opened. Perform TEST #8: Lid Lock on page 18 of the service manual to test the lid lock's electrical output. Also inspect the wiring harness connected to the lid lock for any damaged or loose connections. If the lid lock fails testing, replacing it resolves the fault in most cases.

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