Maytag Washer Error Code F0E1 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

F0E1 means your Maytag washer can't sense how much laundry is inside. It uses this reading to set the right water level. The cycle may pause or run incorrectly until the issue is resolved.

Affected Models

Maytag MVWB865GW
Maytag MVWC465HW
Maytag MVWB835DW
Maytag Bravos XL

Common Causes

Overloaded drum — too many clothes packed in at once
Laundry is unevenly distributed or tangled into a clump
Faulty load-sensing strip or suspension rod
Control board glitch causing a false error reading
Worn or damaged drive components affecting drum movement

How to Fix It

Cancel the cycle and open the lid.

Press the Cancel or Power button to stop the washer safely.
Remove some items if the drum is packed full.

Maytag recommends filling the drum no more than three-quarters full.
Redistribute the laundry so it sits evenly around the drum.

Bunched-up clothing on one side throws off the sensor reading.
Close the lid and restart the cycle.

The washer will re-sense the load from scratch.
If the error returns, unplug the washer for 1 minute then plug it back in.

This clears any temporary control board glitch.

When to Call a Professional

If the error returns after every wash, a technician should inspect the suspension and sensing hardware. A failing control board will also need professional diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use the washer when F0E1 shows?

The cycle may not run correctly with this error active. Redistribute or reduce the load first, then restart.

Why does F0E1 only happen with large loads?

Large or unbalanced loads stress the sensing mechanism most. Smaller, evenly spread loads rarely trigger it.

Does F0E1 mean my washer is broken?

Not necessarily — it often just means the load was too big or uneven. If it happens repeatedly with normal loads, a part may need replacing.