Maytag Dryer FE Error: Flame error — gas dryers
What Does Maytag Dryer Error Code FE Mean? FE is a flame error code specific to Maytag gas dryers — including Bravos XL gas models (MGDB/MGDX series) and Centennial gas variants. The control board initiates a timed ignition sequence at the start of every heat cycle: the igniter glows, the radiant sensor detects the glow […]
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. FE disables the gas valve for safety. Attempting to run a gas dryer with an FE fault should not be done — the gas system needs professional diagnosis.
Can I reset the code?
No. FE requires physical repair of the gas burner circuit components. Resetting the dryer will repeat the failed ignition sequence and re-display FE without a repair being performed.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Any smell of gas near the dryer or utility room, FE appears on every cycle after confirming gas supply is open.
Symptoms You May Notice
No heat — dryer tumbles cold on gas cycle
The drum rotates and the motor runs normally, but no heat is produced because the gas burner did not ignite or the flame did not sustain through the cycle.
FE displayed after failed ignition attempt
On Maytag MGDB and MGDX gas dryer models, FE appears after the igniter glows but the gas valve fails to open, or after the valve opens but the flame is not detected by the radiant flame sensor.
Faint clicking sound at cycle start but no ignition
The igniter glow cycle produces a faint hissing or pop sound as gas momentarily reaches the igniter, then nothing — followed by FE when the control times out waiting for flame confirmation.
No gas ignition click heard
The repeated clicking sound of the gas igniter is absent when the dryer attempts to heat.
Possible Causes
Failed gas valve coils (solenoid coils)
The gas valve solenoid coils that open the valve for gas flow have failed open-circuit. The igniter glows correctly but the valve does not open, so no gas reaches the burner.
Requires ProfessionalFailed igniter
The hot surface igniter has cracked or failed, so it cannot reach the temperature required to open the radiant gas valve. No ignition occurs and FE follows.
Requires ProfessionalFailed radiant flame sensor
The radiant sensor that monitors the igniter temperature to open the gas valve has failed, preventing the valve from opening even if the igniter is functioning normally.
Requires ProfessionalGas supply interrupted
The gas supply shut-off valve behind the dryer is partially or fully closed, or gas service to the home has been interrupted. This prevents any ignition regardless of component condition.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Confirm gas supply valve is fully open
Locate the gas shut-off valve on the supply line behind the Maytag gas dryer. The valve handle should be parallel to the gas pipe to indicate fully open. A handle perpendicular to the pipe is closed. Confirm the valve is fully open and that other gas appliances in the home (range, water heater) are working normally.
Never attempt to open a gas valve that is damaged, corroded, or leaking. Call the gas utility or a licensed plumber immediately if you detect a gas smell.
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2
Do not attempt gas component repair as DIY
Gas igniter, valve coil, and flame sensor replacement on Maytag MGDB/MGDX gas dryers involves working directly with the gas burner assembly. This requires a qualified appliance technician. Do not attempt to bypass, probe, or manually operate gas valve components.
The most common FE repair sequence on Maytag gas dryers is replacing the gas valve coil kit and igniter together — these components often fail within a short period of each other.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Gas valve coil kit testing and replacement (MGDB/MGDX models)
- Hot surface igniter replacement
- Radiant flame sensor testing and replacement
Need Professional Help?
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