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Maytag Washing Machine Error Code F28

Reviewed by the ApplianceErrors Editorial Team · Verified against manufacturer service documentation · Last verified: June 14, 2026
High Severity 🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY

Serial communication error — control boards not communicating

On these Whirlpool-platform front-load washers, F28 means the central control unit and the motor control unit have lost serial communication. The drive cannot be commanded and the cycle stops.

💰 DIY cost: $100–$300 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $250–$520 Save $150+ by doing it yourself
Maytag Washing Machine error code F28 on the display panel
How the F28 code appears on a Maytag washing machine display

What Does Error Code F28 Mean on a Maytag Washing Machine?

Serial communication error — control boards not communicating.

On these Whirlpool-platform front-load washers, F28 means the central control unit and the motor control unit have lost serial communication. The drive cannot be commanded and the cycle stops.

What Causes Error Code F28?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Wiring/connector between control boards loose or damaged 50% of cases
  2. 2
    Motor control unit failure 30% of cases
  3. 3
    Central control unit failure 20% of cases

How to Fix Maytag Washing Machine Error Code F28

🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY Est. time: 1–3 hours
Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Power cycle

    Unplug for 1 minute.

  2. 2

    Reseat the inter-board harness

    Check and reseat the serial connectors between the central control and the motor control.

    🔩 Multimeter
  3. 3

    Replace the failed control unit

    If the harness is good, replace the motor control or central control.

    🔩 Maytag washer motor control unit ($120–$300) 🔩 Maytag washer control board ($100–$300)
    ⚠️ Unplug before servicing.

How to Reset Error Code F28

Unplug 1 minute and reseat the serial harness. Replace a control unit if F28 persists.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

Did this guide fix your appliance?

When to Call a Professional

Serial communication diagnosis is complex — professional service recommended.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $250–$520

Related Error Codes

Same Code on Other Brands

Error code F28 appears on these other brands too. See every brand that shows F28 →

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your Maytag Washing Machine:

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

More Maytag Washing Machine Error Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code F28 mean on a Maytag Washing Machine? +
Serial communication error — control boards not communicating
How do I fix error code F28 on my Maytag Washing Machine? +
Start by Unplug for 1 minute.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code F28? +
Unplug 1 minute and reseat the serial harness. Replace a control unit if F28 persists.
Is error code F28 serious? +
This is a high-severity error. You should address it soon. Running the appliance may cause further damage.

Sources & References

Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 14, 2026.