How To Fix A Maytag Bravos Washer Stuck On Sensing?

Maytag has been one of the most trustworthy washers for a while. Mine has been through thousands of wash cycles, and I do not regret the purchase.

But, every once in a while, even a Maytag washer can have problems like being stuck in the sensing mode and not going away.

In this article, I will discuss how you can fix this issue and get your old Maytag washing machine up and running again.

Maytag Bravos Washer Stuck On Sensing

The most common reason for a Maytag Bravos being stuck on sensing is a faulty actuator or clutch and rotor, which can be fixed by replacing these parts.

You can take the following steps if your Bravos washer is stuck.

1. Reset the washer

The Maytag Bravos is a recent machine, with most processes being carried out digitally via algorithms.

Sometimes, these algorithms can fail due to many causes- maybe there was a sudden power spike, or you might have replaced a part incorrectly.

Before we move on to more complex and complicated methods, it is always best to try the more straightforward solutions first. This solution is to reset the washer.

The easiest way to do this is by unplugging the washer for about 5 minutes and then plugging it back in.

If this does not work, unplug it again and wait 10-30 minutes before plugging it back in. This usually resets the board and clears any errors.

You can press pause/cancel on the washer and pick the correct cycle. Then select start/pause to move it to the following process, using it to clear the hidden error code.

2. Run a diagnostic test

If resetting your Maytag Bravos washer doesn’t do the trick, you should try putting it in diagnostic mode to find the error codes causing the issue.

You can get into diagnostic mode by

1. Unplug your washer for about 30 seconds, then wait for two minutes.
2. Turn the knob in this order Left-> Right-> Right-> Right-> Left -> Right
3. Once all the lights are flashing, turn the knob to the right once, press start, and turn it to the right again.
4. The washer will now be in ‘error code mode’ and display its error codes, if any.

Here is a list of some possible error codes and what they mean:

Error Code	Meaning
PF	Power/ Electricity Failure
F1E1	Main Control Fault
F7E7	Motor Failure
F7E1	Actuator Defect
F9E1	Drain Pump Fault

It is a good idea to note down the error code and search for it online if the code is not mentioned here, as it could help you find the cause of the problem.

3. Replace the washer’s actuator 

One of the problems that could be causing your Maytag Bravos washer to be stuck on sensing is a faulty actuator, which the error code can verify.

A standard actuator can turn faulty when there is damage done to it by external forces or in case the bearing wears off or there is an electrical malfunction.

The actuator plays a significant role in the functioning of a washing machine, as it changes the transmission of the washer from one cycle to another.

A faulty actuator can cause vibrations and loud noises as it attempts to transition to the next cycle. It fails, resulting in being stuck in sensing mode.

I would recommend you call a washer expert to replace the actuator. Still, if you decide to do it yourself, you can undo the belt shaft and screw it off.

4. Swap out the clutch and rotor

The drive motor or the rotor is the most crucial element of any washer as it is the instrument powering it.

In case of a faulty rotor, your Maytag Bravo washer may not even be able to turn on, let alone be stuck on sensing.

The rotor can get chipped away over years of using the washer. This causes it to stop holding the clutch and does not allow the impeller and basket to move in tandem.

A malfunctioning rotor can be identified by a burning smell every time you try to power the washer on, which a whining or thudding sound can also accompany.

Replacing the clutch and rotor assembly in a Maytag Bravos washer is not all that hard if you know what you’re doing, as you only have to take apart the bottom.

However, if you do not know what you’re getting into, this process can be tedious and easy to mess up. Hence, it is best to have a technician do it for you.

How Much Does A Maytag Actuator Cost To Replace?

After learning that it’s the most common cause of a Maytag Washer being stuck in sensing, you might need help if you intend to replace the actuator.

I recommend buying a new shift actuator as soon as you notice problems with cycle switching and vibrations and noises.

Fortunately, Maytag’s shift actuators are relatively inexpensive, ranging from $20 to $35. That is a small price considering not replacing it might cause more significant issues.

It is essential (and hard) to match the actuator you find online to the specific washer you have, and I recommend that you let a professional take care of it.

How To Take Care Of Your Maytag Bravos Washer?

It is important to note that shift actuators are often reported to malfunction in Maytag washers, which you should look out for.

Apart from that, there are some other things you can carry out to ensure that your Maytag washer is in optimal condition:

1. Make sure the washer is level and not on a slope.
2. Do not overload the washer or try to wash heavier items in it.
3. Ensure the lid is fully closed and locked before you start a cycle.
4. Input the appropriate settings for the type and quantity of clothes.
5. Check and clean the water filter periodically; don’t let it clog up.
6. Adjust the water pressure in your home if it is too low or too high.

 Final Remarks

A Maytag washer stuck on sensing can be super annoying, especially when you need to wash your clothes in a hurry. Fortunately, there are several proven ways to fix this-

1. Reset the washer
2. Run a diagnostic test
3. Replace the washer’s actuator 
4. Swap out the clutch and rotor