Maytag Washer F5 E3 Error
What it means
The F5 E3 error means the Maytag washer's door (or lid) is not locking properly. On top-load models it often signals the lid lock can't fully engage or release — for example when debris or downward force on the lid keeps the lock bolt from moving and the control can't confirm the lid's state. The door or lid must latch correctly for the cycle to run. It's commonly an obstruction or an unlatched door, which you can often fix yourself.
The bottom line on the F5 E3 error
F5 E3 almost always means the washer cannot confirm the lid is locked, and the everyday cause is simple — an unlatched lid or debris in the latch. You can usually fix it yourself. The trap is assuming the electronics failed: a reset clears the code but it returns until the obstruction is gone.
Start free — close the lid firmly, clear the latch, lighten the load, and unplug for five minutes. Only if the lock itself has failed do you need the $30–$70 assembly, and since even a pro repair tops out near $250, repair beats replacing the washer.
F5 E3 snapshot
Our own at-a-glance triage of the F5 E3 error, from the verified data on this page. See error-code rankings → · How we score →
Common causes of the F5 E3 error
- Door or lid not completely closed and latched
- Clothing, shipping materials, or debris blocking the latch area
- Excessive downward force on the lid stopping the lock bolt from retracting
- Overloaded drum pressing against the door or lid
- Damaged or worn lid/door lock, strike, or hinge, or a wiring/control fault
Which Maytag washers get the F5 E3 error
Appears on Maytag top-load washers with the electronic lid lock (many MVWB, MVWC, and MVWX Bravos/Centennial-style series) and on Maytag front-load models (MHW series) that use a door lock switch. The identical fault also shows up on Whirlpool-built washers that share the same lid-lock hardware.
How to fix the Maytag Washer F5 E3 error
- 1Unplug the washer for safetyDisconnect power before checking the latch or lock area. This also serves as the control reset described below.
- 2Close the door or lid completelyMake sure the lid or door is fully shut and nothing is preventing it from closing, such as clothing or leftover shipping materials.
- 3Clear the latch areaRemove any debris, laundry, or obstruction around the latch and strike so the lock can engage and release freely.
- 4Reduce an overloaded drumIf clothing is pressing against the lid or door, take a few items out so the lock can seat properly.
- 5Reset the controlLeave the washer unplugged (or switch off its breaker) for 5 minutes, then restore power to reset the control panel.
🧰 When to call a professional
Call for service if F5 E3 returns after closing the lid firmly, clearing obstructions, reducing the load, and resetting power — or if the lid/door stays locked, the washer won't start, the lock clicks repeatedly, or the latch area looks cracked, bent, or loose.
Maytag F5 E3 vs Whirlpool F5 E2 vs Whirlpool F8 E1: how they compare
How this code stacks up against related error codes for difficulty, urgency, and cost.
| Maytag F5 E3 | Whirlpool F5 E2 | Whirlpool F8 E1 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY difficulty (1–5) | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Urgency (1–5) | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Typical cost | $$ | $ | $ |
How much does it cost to fix the F5 E3 error?
| DIY fix (obstruction/reset) | $0 |
| DIY parts (lid/door lock assembly) | $30–$70 |
| Professional repair (parts + labor) | $120–$250 |
Repair or replace?
Try the free fixes first — most F5 E3 cases are just an obstruction, an overloaded drum, or a lid that isn't fully latched, and cost nothing to clear. If the lock itself has failed, the whole lid/door lock assembly is a $30–$70 part and the switch plus motor are built into one housing, so replacing the unit is the permanent fix (a tech visit adds $60–$100 labor). Because even a pro repair tops out around $250, repair almost always beats replacing a washer that runs $600–$1,200 new — replacement only makes sense on a machine that's already 8–10+ years old with other problems.
Common replacement parts for the F5 E3 error
| Lid lock / door lock assembly | $30–$70 | Switch and lock motor are one sealed unit — replace the whole assembly. |
Prices are typical retail ranges and vary by model and supplier — always confirm the exact part number for your appliance before buying.
Maytag F5 E3 error — FAQ
＋ − What does F5 E3 mean on a Maytag washer?
It means the door or lid isn't locking properly. On top-load models it often points to the lid lock being unable to fully lock or unlock, so the control can't confirm the lid's state.
＋ − How do I fix the F5 E3 error?
Close the lid or door fully, clear any debris or clothing from the latch area, reduce an overloaded drum, then unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the control.
＋ − Why does F5 E3 keep coming back?
If it returns after clearing obstructions and resetting power, the lid/door lock or its wiring is likely failing and should be checked by a technician.
Sources & manufacturer references
This guide is independently written and not affiliated with Maytag. Always unplug appliances before servicing and follow your model's manual. Error codes and steps can vary by model — when in doubt, consult a qualified technician.