Maytag Dishwasher E16 Error Code
E16 on a Maytag dishwasher is generally linked to the appliance’s leak protection responding to water it detected. This guide gives a plain-language overview, the symptoms you might notice, safe checks you can perform, and when it is best to call a technician — with a reminder that exact behavior varies by model.
Reviewed by Daniel Hayes · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Code overview
Content status: Verified
- Error code
- E16
- Appliance
- Dishwasher
E16 — commonly associated with leak protection on a Maytag dishwasher. Meaning can vary by model; verify before relying on it.
Model compatibility: Maytag reuses codes across series and model years, so E16 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
What this code means
E16
On many Maytag dishwasher models, the E16 code is commonly associated with the appliance’s leak protection responding to water it detected. The exact meaning can differ between appliance series and model years, so treat this as general guidance and confirm it against your specific model’s documentation before acting.
Symptoms you may notice
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The dishwasher halts and displays E16
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You notice moisture or water near the dishwasher
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The dishwasher won’t resume its cycle normally
Possible causes
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A minor internal leak reaching the base
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A loose or aging hose connection
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Residual water triggering the protection system
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
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Switch the appliance off and, if safe, disconnect power
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Check for visible water under or behind the appliance
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Confirm hoses and connections are not visibly dripping
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Record the full model number before contacting a technician
Safety warning
Do not open internal panels, access high-voltage wiring, or bypass any safety device. If you see smoke, sparks, a burning smell, or water near electrical parts, switch the appliance off at the outlet if it is safe to do so and call a professional.
What not to attempt
- Do not open internal panels or access high-voltage components
- Do not bypass door locks, safety switches or interlocks
- Do not keep running the appliance if there is water near electrical parts, a burning smell or sparks
When to call a technician
If E16 persists after the safe checks above, or you are unsure at any point, book a diagnosis. A technician can confirm what E16 means on your specific model and resolve the underlying cause safely.
Likely related component Often related to the anti-leak / base sensor (varies by model).
Frequently asked questions
You can safely try the basic checks above and a manufacturer-approved restart. If E16 returns, the underlying cause needs a proper diagnosis. Because the meaning can vary by model, confirm against your documentation.
Not necessarily. Maytag reuses codes across series and model years, and the exact meaning can differ. Record your full model number so the code can be interpreted correctly.
Sources & references
- Maytag appliance user manual — error/display messages section
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