In this edition of the DIY Appliance Repair Series, we’ll be looking at the Maytag MER8800FZ electric range series and the common error codes you may see. The MER8800FZ is a true convection unit that sets itself apart from other less equipped ranges.
True convection uses a third element placed inside the convection assembly that helps circulate hot air for cooking around and onto the food and provides an even distribution of heat.
Speaking of convection, aside from a rare element failure, the only other issue I’ve seen is the fan blades warp and rub on the metal surrounding the element. It’s very loud and you can’t mistake the noise. The only good fix is a new convection assembly. Now for the MER8800FZ error codes…
Let’s Get Started
Before we begin looking at the Maytag MER8800FZ, remember the normal key sequence of CANCEL>CANCEL>START to enter the Service Mode.
NOTE:
On models with a numeric keypad on the control, press the “3” key instead of the “up” arrow or “+” (plus) keypad. Press the “6” key instead of the “down” arrow or “-” (minus) keypad. On some models, press the OFF keypad if there is not a CANCEL keypad.
This sequence displays the most recent error code first. To see the last 10 codes, each display has different steps to see them, so follow the instructions for your control.
To clear the codes, press START TIME or DELAY START. Always check your tech sheet included with your range for more information.
MER8800FZ Failure/Error Display Codes
F1E0 – EEPROM communication error.
This code usually tells you the control has failed internally and needs replacing. As with any error code, you can try to cycle power and see if the error code shows up again. If it repeats, the control is beyond repair.
F1E5 – Oven temperature sensor out of range.
Check the sensor with a meter set to resistance. If it reads between 1K and 1.2KΩ, it’s checking OK. If it truly is out of range, replace the sensor and clear the error code from the control, then test the oven temperature to confirm the operation.
F2E0 – Keypad disconnected.
Replace the keypad membrane.
F2E1 – Stuck key.
Replace the keypad membrane.
F3E0 – The main sensor is open or shorted.
This error tells you that the oven temp sensor has failed either open or shorted. As with the F1E5 error, check the sensor pins at the connector for 1K to 1.2KΩ. Replace the sensor if the reading is way off. Usually a short or infinite resistance (open).
F3E2 – Warming drawer sensor open or shorted.
If the sensor temperature is reading room temperature, replace the sensor because it may have failed at a high temperature. Unless you already replaced the oven temperature sensor, this error likely won’t show up (it’s rare). Additionally, be sure you can re-measure the oven temperature sensor to confirm it’s in range.
F5E0 – Door and switches (clean mode on some models) don’t agree.
Enter diagnostics to confirm the error (CANCEL, CANCEL, START). Cancel diagnostics and enter diagnostics a second time. With TEST ON displayed, open the oven door and engage the door switch by hand. The display should change from UI to UO.
Assuming the state of the switch changes on the display, check the door alignment and if it actuates the door switch fully. Adjust as necessary. If the display does not change, check the actuating rod from the front frame to the door switch, and the harness, etc. If everything checks OK, put the oven into self-clean and confirm the door lock functions and the unit enters self-clean. After confirming proper operation and there are no errors, be sure to clear the error codes from memory. Enter diagnostics and press START TIME or DELAY START to clear the codes.
F6E1 – Over temp in cook
F6E2 – Over temp in self-clean
F6E3 – Over temp in the warming drawer
Confirm these codes in diagnostics (CANCEL, CANCEL, START).
REPLACE CONTROL IF ANY OF THESE OCCUR
The three error codes above show a thermal runaway situation, and you should remove power from the unit and replace the control. The control lost its ability to respond to input from the temperature sensors and will allow temperatures to increase to dangerously high levels.
Neli is Here to Help
This completes another venture into the world of DIY appliance repair. Hopefully, you now look at your Maytag MER8800FZ with a new confidence. As always, we hope our posts help you untangle some of the confusion that results from unfamiliar terms, etc. Our goal is to help you complete your repair and have a working appliance again. But if you feel like you’re in over your head, please, let us help. That’s why we’re here. Feel free to set up an appointment with us and we’ll walk you through the repair process.
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