F04
Maytag Dryer
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
F04 means the outlet thermistor — which monitors exhaust air temperature — is reading incorrectly. The dryer uses this sensor to know how well clothes are drying. Abnormal readings cause the dryer to stop and show this error.
Affected Models
- Maytag MEDB835DW
- Maytag MEDC215EW
- Maytag MED5500FW
- Maytag Bravos Dryer
Common Causes
- Outlet thermistor (exhaust sensor) has failed
- Blocked dryer vent causing exhaust temperatures to spike
- Lint buildup around the sensor location
- Loose wiring connection to the outlet thermistor
- Control board unable to read the sensor correctly
How to Fix It
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Clean the lint screen before doing anything else.
A full lint screen restricts exhaust airflow and pushes temperatures outside the normal range.
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Inspect the dryer exhaust vent from outside the house.
The vent flap should open when the dryer runs. A blocked or crushed vent hose is a common cause of F04.
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Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes and plug it back in.
A reset sometimes clears a temporary sensor glitch caused by a one-time temperature spike.
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Run a short timed dry cycle and listen for normal airflow.
You should feel warm air coming from the outside vent. Weak airflow means a blockage remains.
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If F04 returns with clear vents, call a technician to test the outlet thermistor.
The sensor itself is inexpensive, but locating it inside the dryer requires disassembly.
When to Call a Professional
If clearing the vent and resetting the dryer does not resolve F04, the thermistor needs replacing. A technician can test it quickly and swap it out in one visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the outlet thermistor measuring exactly?
It measures the temperature of the air leaving the drum. Hotter exhaust means clothes are nearly dry. Cooler exhaust means moisture is still present.
Will a blocked vent cause F04?
Yes — a blocked vent traps heat inside the dryer, causing the exhaust sensor to read dangerously high. Always keep the vent clear to protect both the dryer and your home.
Is the outlet thermistor the same as the heating element?
No — the thermistor is just a sensor that reads temperature. The heating element is the component that actually generates heat.