Maytag Dryer F3 E3 Error Code: Moisture Sensor Fault

Quick Answer

F3 E3 on a Maytag dryer means the moisture sensor has failed or is coated with residue. The sensor bars are two metal strips on the front bulkhead inside the drum. Fabric softener and dryer sheet residue coats these bars over time and blocks the low-voltage signal. Clean both bars with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab first; this resolves the fault at no cost in roughly half of cases. If cleaning does not clear the code, test sensor wiring continuity, then replace the moisture sensor assembly (part WP8566574, approximately $20-40).

MaytagDryerSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate88% DIY Success

Time to Fix

15–60 min

Difficulty

intermediate

Parts Cost

$20 – $40

Tools Needed

Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher), Cotton swabs

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Not seeing F3 E3 on your display?

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moisture sensor fault

WhirlpoolF3 E3

What Does the F3 E3 Code Mean?

Two metal sensor strips inside the drum are either coated with residue or have failed. A clean with rubbing alcohol often fixes this for free. If the code returns, the sensor assembly needs replacement.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Sensor bars coated with fabric softener or dryer sheet residue40%

Sensor wiring harness fault or broken connector24%

Control board input circuit for moisture sensor failed22%

Moisture sensor assembly failure14%

Symptoms You May Notice

F3 E3 displayed on control panel
Dryer shuts off early while clothes are still damp
Dryer runs the full maximum cycle time on every load
Timed dry works but auto-sensing cycles do not complete correctly
Clothes come out overdried or shrunk from extended run time

Can you reset a Maytag dryer to clear the F3 E3 code?

After cleaning the sensor bars or replacing the sensor assembly, unplug the dryer for 60 seconds to clear the stored fault. Plug back in and run a timed dry cycle first to confirm the dryer functions, then test an auto-sensing cycle with a damp load.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)Cotton swabsPhillips head screwdriverMultimeter (continuity mode)Fine scotch-brite pad (optional, for heavy residue)

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Open the dryer door and locate the two moisture sensor bars

Open the dryer door and locate the two moisture sensor bars. They are two parallel metal strips mounted on the front bulkhead inside the drum, typically just below the lint screen slot. Run your finger along them and feel for a waxy or tacky coating.

Clean both sensor bars with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) on

If cleaning does not clear the code

Inspect the wiring harness that runs from the sensor bars to the

Replace the moisture sensor assembly

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Moisture Sensor AssemblyWP8566574 · $20–$40	WP8566574	$20 – $40

Verify part fitment for your Maytag model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $30 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does using dryer sheets cause F3 E3 on Maytag dryers?

Dryer sheets release a waxy coating as they heat up. This film deposits on the two moisture sensor bars inside the drum over months of use. The coating is non-conductive, so it blocks the low-voltage signal that travels between the bars through damp laundry. The control board sees no signal and flags a sensor fault.

Can I use my Maytag dryer while it shows F3 E3?

Yes, but only in timed dry mode. Timed dry cycles bypass the moisture sensor entirely and run for a fixed duration you set manually. Automatic sensing cycles will not work correctly until the sensor is cleaned or replaced. Avoid auto-sensing cycles to prevent overdrying or underdrying.

How often should I clean the moisture sensor bars to prevent F3 E3?

If you use dryer sheets regularly, clean the sensor bars with rubbing alcohol every 1 to 3 months. If you use only liquid fabric softener added to the washer and no dryer sheets, cleaning once or twice a year is enough.

Is the F3 E3 sensor part the same as on a Whirlpool dryer?

Yes. Maytag and Whirlpool share the same MED/WED platform. Part WP8566574 fits both brands. The repair procedure is also identical across both product lines.

The code cleared after cleaning but came back in a week. What is happening?

Heavy dryer sheet use re-coats the sensor bars quickly. Consider switching to wool dryer balls, which add softness without leaving any residue. If the code returns even after stopping dryer sheet use, the sensor assembly itself is degrading and needs replacement.

Related Maytag Dryer Error Codes

Code: HUBMaytag Dryer Error Codes Guide Code: F01Maytag Dryer F01 Error Code: Main Control Board Failure

Same Fix on Other Brands

Whirlpool dryerF3 E3: Whirlpool Dryer F3 E3 Error Code

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Maytag shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience F3 E3 Errors

This repair applies to most Maytag dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

MEDC465HW, MED5630HW, MGD5630HW, MEDB765FW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026