ErrorCodePro · Appliance Error CodesMaytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer Error Code F5 E3: Meaning & How to Fix It
By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026
Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error code F5 E3 means: Lid unlock fault. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.
Source: Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].
Quick facts
| Code | F5 E3 |
|---|---|
| Also shown as | None listed by the manufacturer |
| Brand / appliance | Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer |
| System | Door / lock |
| Meaning (service chart) | Lid unlock fault. [1] |
| Keep using it? | Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair |
| DIY-safe? | Owner checks only (listed below) |
| Support | Maytag Product Help (producthelp.maytag.com), 1-800-344-1274 |
| Source document | Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) |
On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ
What error code F5 E3 means on a Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer
Lid unlock fault. [1]
This is a door / lock code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.
How to fix Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error code F5 E3 (safe owner checks)
- Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (F5 E3) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer and order the right parts.
- Do a power reset. Unplug the washer.
- Close the door or lid fully. Try to manually unlock the washer lid without breaking the lid lock/switch assembly and the lock strike.
- Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If F5 E3 comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.
The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.
Parts that may be involved
Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.
- Lid lock/switch assembly
- Lock strike
When to call a technician
- If the components are damaged, a technician should replace them.
- If the lid lock/switch assembly won't lock and unlock properly, a technician should replace it.
- Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
- The appliance is under warranty: contact Maytag Product Help (producthelp.maytag.com), 1-800-344-1274 first
Related error codes
Frequently asked questions
What does error code F5 E3 mean on a Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer?
The Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error-code chart lists F5 E3 as follows: Lid unlock fault.
Is it safe to keep using the Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer with F5 E3?
Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.
Can I fix Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error F5 E3 myself?
Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Maytag Product Help (producthelp.maytag.com), 1-800-344-1274.
Sources
- Sears PartsDirect: Maytag Bravos or Centennial VMW top-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)
Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Maytag.