Maytag dishwasher F9E3: diverter: disk missing
F9E3 means the control could not detect the diverter disk in the sump, either because it is missing or the position sensor is not seeing it.
What F9E3 means
- Brand
- Maytag
- Appliance
- Dishwasher
- Code
- F9E3
- Documented meaning
- Diverter: disk missing
- Applies to
- 4 Maytag models on 3 platforms
- Can you keep using it?
- With caution
What the dishwasher is detecting
The diverter position sensor expects to see the disk as it turns. If it never does, the control assumes the disk is missing and records this code.
Causes listed for this condition
In the order the service documentation checks them. Documented causes come from the manufacturer's service documentation for these platforms; possible causes are based on how the system works; unconfirmed marks common assumptions that the documentation does not support.
- Documented The diverter disk is missing from the sump, for example after the sump was taken apart.
- Documented A failed diverter position (optical) sensor, even with the disk in place (named on newer platforms).
Safe checks you can make
- If the lower spray arm or sump parts were recently removed for cleaning or repair, tell the technician.
- Switch off the dishwasher's circuit breaker (or unplug it, if it plugs in under the sink) for one minute, restore power and run a short cycle to see whether the code returns.
Further diagnosis requires opening the appliance. Beyond the owner checks, diagnosis involves removing panels, testing components and checking wiring. We describe what a technician investigates, not how to do it yourself.
What a technician checks
- Removes the lower spray arm, feed tube and outlet cover to confirm the disk is installed.
- Checks whether the disk moves and is detected during diagnostics.
Typical repairs and cost
Depending on what diagnosis finds, this code can lead to one of these repairs:
| Repair | Typical range | Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher diverter motor replacement | $180–$390 | Moderate |
Typical total ranges for the Las Vegas area, parts and labor included. The final cost depends on diagnosis, the exact model, parts availability and whether other damage is found.
Can you keep using it?
Use with caution. Washing and water routing may be wrong. Schedule service.
Maytag models documented with this code
And 2 more. Use the model lookup to check yours.
Related problems and codes
Other codes documented on the same Maytag platforms:
Repair or replace?
A fault code alone rarely justifies replacing a dishwasher. Most F9E3 repairs involve a single component once diagnosed. Replacement becomes worth considering when the unit is near the end of its typical 9–12-year life and the diagnosed repair is a major one. See the repair-or-replace guide.
Need F9E3 diagnosed in the Las Vegas area?
We repair Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, Amana and other Whirlpool-family appliances in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin and Boulder City. A model number helps but is never required to book.