Error code reference

Maytag Washer Error Code F7E6

Motor fault

Maytag codesMaytag washer codes

Motor fault — indicates an open clockwise or counterclockwise circuit of the motor.

First step from the service manual

See TEST #3b: Drive System – Motor, page 14.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for F7E6.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What F7E6 means on a Maytag washer

The F7E6 error code indicates the control board has detected a motor fault, specifically an open circuit in either the clockwise or counterclockwise winding of the drive motor. The board monitors current flow through both motor circuits during operation. When it detects no continuity in one or both directional circuits, it stops the wash cycle and throws this code. Diagnosis begins with TEST #3b: Drive System–Motor on page 14 of the service manual, which walks through motor resistance checks and wiring verification.

For homeowners, this code means your washer's drive motor is not receiving or completing an electrical circuit in at least one rotation direction. The motor is what spins and agitates the drum, so without a functioning motor circuit, the machine cannot run a cycle. An open circuit can mean a broken wire or connector between the control board and the motor, or it can mean the motor itself has a failed winding internally.

The fault is not always the motor itself. Wiring harness damage, a corroded connector, or a failed motor control board can all produce this same open-circuit condition. Testing the motor's resistance with a multimeter, as outlined in TEST #3b, will help isolate whether the fault is in the motor windings or in the wiring and control components upstream of it.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F7E6

  1. 01

    Open motor winding (failed drive motor)

    Part replacement

    One or both directional windings inside the drive motor have broken down internally, creating an open circuit. The motor will show out-of-range or infinite resistance when tested with a multimeter on the affected winding.

  2. 02

    Damaged or disconnected wiring harness to the motor

    Wiring / connection

    A broken wire, corroded terminal, or loose connector between the control board and the drive motor can interrupt the circuit in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. This produces the same open-circuit reading as a failed motor without the motor itself being at fault.

  3. 03

    Failed motor control board

    Part replacement

    The motor control board supplies power to the drive motor's directional circuits. If the board has a burned relay, trace, or component on the motor output, it can prevent current from reaching one or both motor windings, triggering F7E6.

  4. 04

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    The main control board signals the motor control board to energize the motor circuits. A failure in the main board's motor command output can be misread as an open motor circuit, though this is the least common cause and should only be considered after the motor, wiring, and motor control board have been tested and cleared.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F7E6

What does F7E6 mean on a Maytag washer?
F7E6 means the control board has detected a motor fault caused by an open circuit in either the clockwise or counterclockwise winding of the drive motor. An open circuit means electrical current is not completing its path through that part of the motor system. The cause can be a failed motor winding, a broken wire in the harness, or a faulty motor control board.
How do I fix F7E6 on a Maytag washer?
Start with TEST #3b: Drive System–Motor on page 14 of the Maytag service manual. This test walks you through checking motor winding resistance with a multimeter and inspecting the wiring harness and connectors. If the motor windings test open (infinite resistance), the motor needs replacement. If the motor tests good, inspect the harness for broken wires or corroded connectors and then test the motor control board. A qualified technician is advisable if you are not comfortable working with electrical components or reading wiring diagrams.
Can I still use my Maytag washer with the F7E6 error code?
No. An F7E6 code means the drive motor circuit is open and the washer will not complete a wash cycle. Attempting to run the machine repeatedly while this fault is active will not clear the code and may place additional stress on control components. The washer should remain out of service until the motor circuit is tested and the faulty component is repaired or replaced.
How much does it cost to fix a Maytag washer F7E6 error?
Cost depends on which component has failed. A replacement drive motor typically costs between $80 and $200 for the part alone, with labor adding $100 to $200 if you hire a technician. A motor control board runs roughly $100 to $250 for the part. Wiring harness repairs are often the least expensive fix and may require no parts at all if the issue is a loose connector. Running TEST #3b yourself before calling a technician can save diagnostic fees by pinpointing the exact failed component.
Is F7E6 on a Maytag washer a motor or wiring problem?
It can be either. F7E6 specifically flags an open circuit in the motor's clockwise or counterclockwise path, which can originate at the motor winding itself, the wiring harness connecting the motor to the control board, or the motor control board's output. TEST #3b in the service manual is designed to distinguish between these causes by testing motor resistance directly and then tracing the circuit back toward the control board.

Related Maytag washer codes

All Maytag washer codes
View all 404 Maytag washer codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass