How to Fix a Maytag Dishwasher Flashing a Light

If you notice your Maytag dishwasher has a light flashing at you, don’t panic! It’s usually nothing major! But what caused it, and how can you fix the problem?

Our article walks you through the most common causes of a flashing light on a Maytag dishwasher, as well as some of the less common causes. Read on to find out what to do!

This article applies to all the major models of Maytag Dishwasher, including:

• DC24B6R
• DC24D6
• DC24H6
• DC24H6B
• DC24J6
• DC24J6A
• DWU9200AAX
• MDB6000AWB
• MDB6000AWW
• MDB7100AWB
• MDB7100AWW
• MDB7600AWB
• MDB7600AWS
• MDB7600AWW
• MDB8600AWB
• MDB8600AWS
• MDB8600AWW
• MDB9100AWB
• MDB9150AWB
• MDB9150AWS
• MDB9150AWW

Start/Resume Lights Flashing

The most common flashing light on a Maytag dishwasher is when the Start/Resume lights start flashing. There are three main causes of this issue:

The Door Was Opened or Power Was Interrupted During the Cycle

If the power cycle is interrupted or the door is opened to the dishwasher during the start-up of the cycle, then the Start/Resume light will flash. 

To avoid this, close the door firmly within three seconds of pressing Start/Resume on the dishwasher. 

If the flashing is due to a power interruption, try starting the cycle again from the beginning to solve the problem. 

If the flashing problem persists, even if you’re sure the door is closed properly, there may be an issue with the door switch. To check this:

• Use a multimeter to test whether the door switch has continuity.
• If it doesn’t, the switch unit will need to be replaced. You can order a replacement part from Maytag. 

The Machine Is Set for a Delayed Start

The delayed start function can be super helpful if you like your dishwasher to run at a specific time. However, if you’ve set your Maytag dishwasher for a delayed start but forget to latch the door properly, the indicator light will flash continuously.

There is only one way to fix this issue – remember to latch your dishwasher properly! You can try setting a reminder on your phone if you frequently have trouble remembering. 

The Dishwasher Needs Resetting

Sometimes, the exact cause of the flashing is not clear, but a reset can fix it. To reset your Maytag dishwasher:

• Disconnect the entire dishwasher unit from the power source for one minute. You can do this by unplugging the dishwasher or turning it off at the circuit breaker. 
• Turn the dishwasher back on. The flashing light issue should now be resolved!

Clean Light Flashing

The Clean light will turn on after your Maytag dishwasher goes through its wash cycle. But what does a flashing Clean light mean?

Usually, this indicates an issue with the float switch. The float switch measures the water level inside the dishwasher, ensuring the level doesn’t get too high and overflow. 

To fix this issue:

• Locate the float switch. This will be at the bottom of the dishwasher tub.
• Make sure the float can move freely up and down. You might need to unscrew the cover to check if it is moving freely. 
• When you move the float, listen carefully to see if you can hear the relay switch click. If you can’t, it means the float assembly needs replacing. 
• You can purchase a replacement float assembly online and replace it according to your user manual. This should solve the issue of a flashing Clean light. 

Cancel Light Flashing

A flashing cancel light can be caused by something as simple as a stuck button on the display. Here’s how to diagnose and fix this issue:

• First, use a damp cloth to clean the display pad carefully, ensuring each button is clean. 
• Gently massage each button, making sure to pay attention to the corners. You should be able to feel if any of the buttons are stuck and if they release. 
• If you get a stuck button to release, try running the dishwasher again and see if the flashing Cancel light issue is fixed. 

If you’re unable to find any stuck buttons, or if none of your buttons are responding, you may be dealing with a more serious issue – a faulty control pad. 

You can purchase a new control pad and install it, but make sure you weigh up the cost and the labor involved against the age of your dishwasher – if it’s reaching the end of its lifespan, it may be a better idea to purchase a new one instead. 

Normal Light Flashing

A flashing ‘Normal’ light usually indicates an issue with your dishwasher’s wiring. This appears relatively common in certain Maytag dishwasher models because the steam vent goes too close to the control panel wiring, causing corrosion. 

While this isn’t something an inexperienced DIYer may feel comfortable with, if you have electrical experience, you can give it a try!

Here’s the fix:

• Safety first – unplug your dishwasher from the power source.
• Take apart the door panel and clean all the electronic connections with an electronic spray cleaner. Use cotton buds and a soft cloth to ensure everything is perfectly clean. 
• Check to see if any of the connections look loose or cracked. If they do, try resoldering them. 
• Put everything back together and test to see if the issue is fixed.

If this doesn’t work, you can contact a professional technician or replace the entire control panel.