3 Easy Maytag Neptune Dryer Diagnostic Mode Techniques!

One thing that separates Maytag Neptune dryers from most families is their self-diagnostic ability. By running the Maytag Neptune dryer diagnostic mode or service mode, you can quickly pinpoint and address the exact problem.

You can put a Maytag Neptune dryer on diagnostic by pressing ‘Chime’ and ‘Temp’ consecutively for 3 seconds while the dryer is on standby. After that, press ‘Wrinkle Prevent’ to view possible error codes and ‘Off’ to exit service mode.

However, that is not the only way to run diagnostics on a Maytag Neptune dryer. It’s the most typical technique but not the only one, as the methods depend on the model.

You can also press ‘Signal and Temp’ or ‘Air-Fluff’ and ‘Time’ instead of ‘Chime’ and ‘Temp’, and your Maytag Neptune dryer will still get into service mode and display an error code, if any.

Remember, you need the error code to find its meaning and determine what’s wrong with your dryer. On that note, I’ll share a quick guide to troubleshooting the most everyday Maytag Neptune dryer error codes.

But first, let’s discuss the three diagnostic techniques

Maytag Neptune dryer diagnostic mode

How Do You Run a Diagnostic On a Maytag Neptune Dryer?

Generally, you can run diagnostic mode on a Maytag Neptune Dryer using any of these three techniques:

Option 1 (The Commonest Method)

You can put most Maytag dryers, including the Neptune family, on diagnostic mode using this technique, and it’s as follows:

  • First, put the dryer on standby – that means you should leave it plugged in but not turned on
  • Locate ‘Chime’ and ‘Temp’ (or Temperature) buttons and press the two consecutively for about 3 seconds or until you hear a beep sound
  • Press’ Wrinkle Prevent’ to view any error codes present
  • Use the Cycle Selector knob to sequence through the various error codes
  • After noting the error code, press ‘Off’ to exit service mode

Option 2

If you can’t locate the ‘Chime’ button on your dryer, consider this diagnostic technique requiring you to press the ‘Signal’ button instead. Here’s how to go about it:

  • Put the dryer on standby
  • Consecutively press ‘Signal’ and ‘Temperature’ for 3 seconds to enter diagnostic
  • View any error codes present.
  • Hold the ‘Sensor Dry Level’ and ‘Time’ buttons for 3 seconds to clear the existing sequence.
  • Press ‘Signal’ and ‘Temperature’ one more time for another 3 seconds to exit service mode

Option 3

Lastly, if none of the two diagnostic techniques work for your dryer, you can try this third option. It requires you to:

  • Put the dryer on diagnostic mode
  • Consecutively press ‘Air-Fluff’ and ‘Time’ until you hear a beep sound (about 3 seconds)
  • Wait for the letter ‘d’ to show – confirming that the dryer has entered diagnostic mode.
  • View any error code available and press ‘Off’ to exit service mode

10 Common Maytag Neptune Dryer Error Codes

Remember, if something is wrong with your Maytag Neptune dryer, you’ll likely get an error code after running diagnostic mode. You will then interpret the error code and troubleshoot the issue.

Here are the most common error codes you are likely to find on a Maytag Neptune dryer:

1. 01 (Meaning – Temperature Sensor Fault)

The error code 01 shows a problem with a temperature sensor, more so the thermistor. Sometimes, the thermistor cannot sense the temperature changes due to a clogged vent or lint filter system. However, if the issue has nothing to do with a clogged system, it’s most likely a defective thermistor.

Fix

Consider cleaning the vent and lint filter; if the error persists, replace the thermistor.

How do you run a diagnostic on a Maytag Neptune dryer

2. 02 (Meaning – Non-Heating Dryer)

The code 02 pops up when the dryer has difficulty heating. And so, you’ve to identify why your Maytag Neptune dryer won’t heat, and it could be anything from a tripped breaker to a blown fuse.

Fix

Check the dryer’s power supply. Ensure the dryer has power and turns on.

3. 03 (Meaning – Door Switch Fault)

If there’s an issue with the door switch, which may result in the door not latching, the error code 03 will likely pop up. In that case, you should test the door switch for fault using a multimeter.

Fix

If the door switch doesn’t show on the multimeter any continuity, it’s faulty. Thus, replace it.

4. 04 (Meaning – Motor Relay Fault)

Expect the error code 04 to pop up when there’s an issue with the motor relay. In most cases, all it takes is a reset.

Fix

Reset the dryer to target the motor relay. If the error code doesn’t disappear, talk to Maytag.

5. 08 (Meaning – Stuck Key)

If there’s a stuck key on the control panel, the error code 08 will pop up. That means you should identify the stuck key and release it.

Fix

Tap around the stuck key to try and unstick it. If it doesn’t unstick, consider replacing the entire control panel.

6. PF (Meaning – Power Failure)

Your Neptune dryer will show the error code PF when there’s a power failure. That is often fixable with a reset, eliminating the need to call an electrician.

Fix

Unplug the dryer for at least 30 seconds (or flip off the breaker for the same duration). If the error code doesn’t disappear, call a pro.

7. L2 (Meaning – Low Voltage)

If the voltage supply is low, expect the error code L2 to pop up on your Neptune dryer. You may need to call an electrician here.

Maytag Neptune dryer display not working

8. AF or F4E3 (Meaning – Restricted Airflow)

If there’s an issue with the dryer’s airflow, perhaps a clogged lint screen or a blocked exhaust vent, the error code AF or F4E3 may pop up. In most cases, the dryer won’t get hot; if so, it won’t dry the clothes.

Fix

Check the lint screen for clogging and clean it. Also, clean the dryer vent if it’s clogged and straighten it out if it’s kinked.

9. Check Lint (Meaning – Clogged Lint Screen)

The error code ‘Check Lint’ is self-explanatory. Do as the code instructs: check the lint screen for clogging.

Fix

Inspect the lint screen for lint clogging and clean it. Use warm, soapy water to do it.

10.  F1E1-F1E5 (Meaning – Control Unit Failure)

The error codes F1E1, F1E3, F1E4, and F1E5 show a problem with the control unit. It could be that the control board has malfunctioned or is just dead. For that reason, you should first try to reset the control board before considering a replacement.

Fix

Reset the control board by unplugging the dryer for at least 30 seconds. Alternatively, flip off the circuit breaker and wait 30 seconds before flipping it back on.

My Maytag Neptune Dryer Won’t Start

Your Maytag Neptune dryer may fail to start due to different issues. If the dryer doesn’t turn on, it’s likely because of a failed power supply. In such a case, ensure the power cord is firmly fixed to the wall and not damaged. Furthermore, the electric outlet should be working, and so should the thermal fuse.

But once you rule out a failed power supply, your Neptune dryer might not start because of a setting issue such as Control Lock (which locks the control panel) or Delay Start (which delays it from starting).

It could also be due to an unlatched door or the start button not working. Whatever the reason, you should be able to troubleshoot it, but if you can’t, involve a dryer expert.

Maytag Neptune Dryer Display Not Working

The display of your Maytag Neptune dryer doesn’t fail to show anything for nothing. Something must be wrong, and it could be that the dryer has no power.

However, if the issue has nothing to do with the lack of power, it could be that the display screen is just frozen, and if so, all you should do is perform a quick reset. Your dryer needs a reboot or reset, which you can do by unplugging it for 30-60 seconds and restoring power.   

But still, it could be that the display is not showing anything because the Control Lock function is on, so you should deactivate it. However, if that’s not the issue, it could be that the control board that controls all parts, including the display board, is faulty and thus needs a replacement.

Maytag Neptune dryer error codes

People Also Ask

1. How Do I Put My Maytag Dryer in Diagnostic Mode?

Different Maytag dryers have multiple diagnostic techniques. They vary from model to model, so confirming this vital detail from your dryer troubleshooting manual is advisable.

However, you can try putting the dryer on standby and pressing ‘Chime’ + ‘Temp’ for a few seconds until you hear the beep sound. Most Maytag dryers enter diagnostic mode this way. You must then press Wrinkle Prevent to view available error codes and ‘Off’ to exit the mode.

2. Why Is My Maytag Neptune Dryer Not Starting?

Consider checking if your Maytag Neptune dryer has power if it won’t start. This appliance needs power to run, and signs of a failed power supply include a loose or damaged cable, a blown-up fuse, and a tripped breaker.

If the dryer has power but won’t start, it could be because of the Control Lock, which you should deactivate, or perhaps due to an unlatched door, delayed setting, or a faulty start button.

In the case of the start button, it could be that it is broken, or you just haven’t pressed it long enough to engage it fully. It takes about 3-5 seconds of holding the start button down to engage it fully.

3. What Is the Commonest Problem with Maytag Dryers?

Maytag dryers have different problems. For newer ones, the most typical issue is noise, which could be a case of overloading the dryer, not creating enough clearance around it, or an obstructed drum.

Older ones, however, are the most likely to suffer an array of issues, which include failing to start, leaving the clothes dry, squeaky noise, and not spinning the clothes, to name a few.

Concluding Thought:

Above are the three easy ways to enter the Maytag Neptune dryer diagnostic mode. You can thus consider the techniques when your Maytag Neptune dryer malfunctions and you can’t explain why and want to fix it DIY.

You can determine the actual fault using the codes that might pop up and troubleshoot it accordingly. Hopefully, the diagnostic code you find is on the above troubleshooting guide!

And if it’s not, check it on your manual or Maytag’s official error code troubleshooting page.