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Error code · Washer

Maytag Neptune Washer Code E3: Motor Told to Turn But Gives No Response

E3 on the Maytag Neptune 27-inch front-load washers, the MAH8700A and MAH9700AW families built around 2005 and 2006, means the control tried to drive the motor and received no speed (tach) response. The motor is not…

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Code
E3
Appliance
Washer
Brand
Maytag
Warranty
30-day workmanship

What E3 means

E3 on the Maytag Neptune 27-inch front-load washers, the MAH8700A and MAH9700AW families built around 2005 and 2006, means the control tried to drive the motor and received no speed (tach) response. The motor is not moving. A locked motor or a problem in the Hall sensor are the kinds of condition behind it. These are older Neptunes still in many homes. You see E3 on the display and the drum will not turn.

Common causes of E3

  • Motor or drum that is locked or very hard to turn
  • Hall sensor or speed-sensing circuit not reporting
  • Wiring between the motor and the control
✓ One safe check you can try

1. Stop the cycle, unplug the washer and wait for everything to be still. 2. Remove clothing if the drum is overfilled. 3. Check for anything wedged between the drum and the door seal. 4. Plug the washer in and run a short drain and spin. 5. If E3 returns, leave the washer unplugged and call us.

! Why to stop there
  • No motion could mean a mechanical lock or a sensing problem, and we separate the two by testing.
  • We check the wiring before suggesting a motor.
  • These are older washers that we repair, and we tell you when a repair is not worth it.
Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.
→Same appliance

Other Washer codes

Ofb or uLMaytag Top-Load Washer Code Ofb or uL: Load Out of Balance, Hands Needed oLMaytag Top-Load Washer Code oL: Load Too Large for the Tub PFMaytag Washer Code PF: Cycle Interrupted by a Power Failure Rinse Light OnMaytag Top-Load Washer Rinse Light On: Spray Rinse Is Running SdMaytag Bravos Washer Code Sd: Suds Reduction Routine at the End of the Wash Sensing or Fill LightMaytag Top-Load Washer Sensing or Fill Light: Auto Sensing Is Measuring the Load SrMaytag Neptune Washer Code Sr: System Relay Problem Sud or SdMaytag Washer Code Sud or Sd: Too Many Suds, Extra Rinsing Under Way
E3E3 questions
Is E3 the same as 3E?

No. They are different codes on the same washer. 3E points to excess current in the motor drive, while E3 means the control got no motion or speed response from the motor.

Can I turn the drum by hand?

Only with the washer unplugged. If it moves freely, the problem may be in the sensing or drive. If it is stuck, tell us when you call.

Do I get a price before work?

Yes, always. You get the price in writing before we start, and you decide whether to go ahead. Our repair work carries a 30-day workmanship warranty afterward.

Book a visit

Still seeing E3?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 936-6390