How to Reset a Maytag Washer: All Methods

Updated · from manufacturer service documentation

A reset clears a displayed error code and gives the control board a fresh start — the right first move once you've already addressed (or ruled out) the underlying cause. It won't fix a genuine part failure on its own; if the same fault comes right back after a reset, that confirms the cause is still present. The method differs by washer platform — use the one that matches your model below.

Top-Load Maytag Bravos

  • Power reset for "Won't Power Up" or "Won't Start Cycle": unplug the washer or disconnect power, then check harness connections before reconnecting — this is the documented first step in both troubleshooting sequences.
  • View saved fault codes: with the washer in standby (plugged in, all indicators off or only the Clean indicator on), enter Automatic Diagnostic Test Mode using the documented press/hold sequence (hold a button 3 seconds, release for 3 seconds, repeated). If a fault code is saved, the display alternates between "F" and the fault code, with all cycle selector indicators flashing.
  • Automatic Diagnostic Test: if no fault codes are saved, all indicators briefly turn off, then "88" displays for 5 seconds before the Automatic test begins — successful entry confirms the console and control are responding.

Front-Load Maytag (Shared Platform with Whirlpool, 2018+)

Maytag's front-load washers built on the same L-97 platform as Whirlpool use the same Service Diagnostic Menu:

  • Clear the error codes: press and hold the 3rd button used to activate Service Diagnostic mode for 5 seconds.
  • Exit Service Diagnostic mode: press and hold the 1st button for 5 seconds, or press POWER once or twice.
  • Power reset for a door that won't unlock: unplug the washer, wait about 2 minutes, then reconnect.

If the Code Comes Back

If the same error reappears right after a reset, the reset only cleared the display — it didn't fix the cause. At that point, work through the specific fault's cause list rather than resetting again. Maytag-specific code pages are in production and will be linked here as they publish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a reset fix my Maytag washer's error code for good?

Only if the underlying cause is already resolved — a reset just clears the stored code and restarts the control board. If the fault condition is still present, the code comes back.

Do top-load and front-load Maytag washers reset the same way?

No — the Bravos top-load platform uses a diagnostic test mode entered with a press/hold/release button sequence to view fault codes, while the front-load platform (shared with Whirlpool, 2018+) has a dedicated 3-button error-clear sequence.

Is unplugging the washer a safe reset method?

Yes — it's the documented first step for "Won't Power Up" and "Won't Start Cycle" on the Bravos platform, and for the front-load door-unlock issue on the shared L-97 platform.

How do I know if my Maytag washer has saved fault codes?

Entering Automatic Diagnostic Test Mode checks for them automatically — if codes are saved, the display alternates between "F" and the fault code with the cycle selector indicators flashing.

Based on the Maytag Bravos washer service documentation and the Whirlpool/Maytag front-load service documentation (L-97 platform, shared across both brands). Last updated: .