Troubleshooting error code 10-1 on a Maytag dishwasher

Is your Maytag dishwasher displaying the error code 10-1? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This is a troubleshooting problem that you can fix yourself without the need for a costly service call, and we’re here to help!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance 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 the error code means

The error code 10-1 on a Maytag dishwasher typically indicates an issue with the dishwasher’s dispenser function. This error code can be triggered by a problem with the dispenser solenoid or wax motor, depending on the specific dishwasher model.

The dispenser on a Maytag dishwasher is responsible for automatically releasing the detergent and rinse aid at the appropriate times during the wash cycle. The dispenser is controlled by either a solenoid valve or a wax motor, which is instructed by the dishwasher’s control board.

When the control board detects an issue with the dispenser function, it will display the error code 10-1. This error code suggests that the control board is not receiving the expected feedback or response from the dispenser solenoid or wax motor.

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 attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it.
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• 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.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts.

Read more: How to Clean a Dishwasher

Tools and materials needed

• Multimeter
• Screwdrivers

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: How Does a Dishwasher Work?

Troubleshooting steps

Check for obstruction

1. Open the dishwasher door and inspect the detergent dispenser mechanism.
2. Look for any visible obstructions, such as hardened detergent, that may be preventing the dispenser lid from opening freely.
3. Manually operate the dispenser lid to check for any mechanical binding or sticking.
4. If the dispenser lid is obstructed or mechanically binding, the entire dispenser assembly may need to be replaced.

Test the dispenser solenoid or wax motor

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the electrical outlet or turn off the circuit breaker to disconnect power to the appliance.
2. Remove the outer door panel to access the dispenser mechanism.
3. Remove the toe kick and any other necessary access panels to gain access to the dishwasher’s control board.
4. Disconnect the P9 connector on the dishwasher’s control board.
5. Use an ohmmeter to measure the resistance between the P9-1 and P9-3 terminals on the P9 connector.

For a dispenser solenoid:

1. If the resistance is between 260-300 ohms, the solenoid and harness are good.
2. If the resistance is outside this range, replace the dispenser solenoid.
3. If an open circuit is detected, check the connections and harness continuity between the control board and the dispenser. If the connections are good, replace the dispenser solenoid.

For a dispenser wax motor:

1. If the resistance is between 1.4-3.0K ohms, the wax motor and harness are good.
2. If the resistance is outside this range, replace the dispenser wax motor.
3. If an open circuit is detected, check the connections and harness continuity between the control board and the dispenser. If the connections are good, replace the dispenser wax motor.

Test for voltage

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the appliance 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. reconnect the P9 connector to the control board.
2. Set your voltmeter to AC and connect the leads to the test pads P10-1 and P9-1 on the control board.
3. Plug in the dishwasher or reconnect power.
4. Start the diagnostic cycle and measure the AC voltage between P10-1 and P9-1 at the appropriate interval.
5. To enter the service diagnostic cycle, you need to press a specific sequence of 3 keys (1-2-3) 3 times, with no more than 1 second between key presses, while the dishwasher is in standby mode. This will start the diagnostic cycle when the door is closed.
6. The dispenser solenoid or wax motor must be connected to the control board to measure the voltage accurately.
7. If no AC voltage is measured, replace the control board.
8. After completing the necessary repairs or replacements, reconnect power to the dishwasher.
9. Run a test cycle to ensure the dispenser is functioning correctly and the error code 10-1 has been resolved.

Read more: Surprising Things That Can & Can’t Go in the Dishwasher

Additional 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.

Be sure to subscribe to us on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!