How to clear the 5-1 error from a Maytag dishwasher

If your Maytag dishwasher is displaying the 5-1 error code, don’t give in to panic. Chances are, this problem is easier to fix than you imagine, and we’re here to help you through the troubleshooting process.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Maytag dishwasher while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What does the 5-1 error mean?

The 5-1 error code on your Maytag dishwasher usually indicates an issue with the dishwasher door. The door may be stuck in the open position and unable to close and latch properly.

When the dishwasher registers this error, it’s a safety feature designed to prevent the wash cycle from starting or continuing with the door open.

Read more: What cycle should I run my dishwasher on?

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

Read more: How to Clean a Dishwasher

How to troubleshoot the 5-1 fault code

Resolve the 5-1 error on your Maytag dishwasher by following these steps.

Step 1: Check the strike plate

1. Make sure the dishwasher is unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Find the strike plate, which is the part on the tub that the door latch engages with when the door is closed.
3. Visually inspect the strike plate to make sure it’s properly aligned and not bent or damaged. Use pliers or a small pry tool to gently bend the strike plate down if it’s bent.
4. Make sure the strike plate isn’t obstructed by any debris or foreign objects that could prevent the door from latching.

Step 2: Inspect the latch assembly

Carefully examine the door latch assembly on the door, including the latch mechanism, springs, and any plastic parts. Look for any damaged or worn parts that could be preventing the door from closing and latching properly.

If any part of the latch assembly appears to be faulty, the entire latch assembly should be replaced.

Step 3: Check the door seal

• Make sure the door seal around the perimeter of the door is properly seated in the door frame and not damaged or worn, which could prevent the door from closing and sealing tightly.
• Inspect the dish racks and any dishes or utensils loaded in the dishwasher to make sure they’re not interfering with the door’s ability to close and latch.

Step 4: Test the door switch

1. Make sure the dishwasher is disconnected from the power source.
2. Find the door switch, which is typically located near the door latch mechanism.
3. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
4. Use the multimeter probes to check the resistance of the door switch contacts while opening and closing the door latch. Make sure the door switch contacts are making proper electrical contact when the door is closed and latched. The resistance should be  within the acceptable range (typically 0-1 Ohm).

If the door switch contacts are stuck open or not making proper contact, then the door switch will need to be replaced.

Step 5: Test the door switch voltage

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the dishwasher needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Plug the dishwasher into the power outlet.
2. Set a multimeter to Volts AC mode.
3. Use the meter probes to measure the voltage between the P9-5 and P9-6 terminals on the main control board while the door is open.
4. Check the meter reading. You should get approximately 13 VDC.

If you don’t get around 13 VDC, then the main control board should be replaced as a last resort.

Read more: Everything you need to know about dishwasher safety, cleaning & maintenance

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Maytag dishwasher working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

Don’t forget to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!