How to resolve the SE error on a Maytag microwave (2024)

Don’t get bent out of shape if you’re seeing a dreaded SE error on your Maytag microwave. You can troubleshoot this issue yourself with the steps in this guide, a few tools and a little bit of time.

Let’s walk through the process together so you can straighten out your microwave.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Maytag microwave while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Safety tips

Microwaves contain high-voltage parts and can store voltage even when they’re disconnected from a power source. Please be very careful while working on a microwave’s internal parts to avoid electrocution, which has the potential to cause serious injuries or death.

• Always unplug the microwave before troubleshooting or making repairs.
• Never attempt to run the microwave while its casing is open or when internal parts are exposed. Always completely reassemble the microwave before testing or using it.
• Never attempt to bypass any microwave safety features.
• Check all parts for damage before reassembling and powering up the microwave again.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: How to Install and Replace a Microwave

What does the SE error code mean?

The SE fault code usually indicates a short in the microwave’s control panel or keypad. This error can happen when one or more of the buttons on the touchpad are being pressed continuously for 10 seconds or longer. The microwave control board interprets this as a “stuck” button and displays the SE code to let you know there’s an issue.

If your fingers aren’t on the keypad, then the electrical contacts under the touchpad are shorted together. This can happen for several reasons including:

Stuck buttons

If you’ve pressed a touchpad button for 10+ seconds or something is leaning against a button, you might see the SE error code. The button could also be sticking or the contact could be staying closed after the button is released.

A damaged touchpad membrane

The thin, flexible membrane with the touchpad symbols can develop small cracks or tears over time. When this happens, the contacts under the pads can short together.

Moisture or debris under the keypad membrane

If your touchpad membrane has been damaged or has cracks, then moisture, food debris and dust can all find their way underneath, where they can cause short-circuiting between touchpad contacts.

A faulty control board

If the touchpad is good, then the microwave’s control board could have degraded electrical contacts or shorts.

Read more: A guide to understanding microwave wattage

Steps for troubleshooting the SE error code

Before you trash your microwave, give these troubleshooting steps a try.

Step 1: Disassemble the microwave

1. Unplug the microwave from the power outlet.
2. Find the grille screws at the front, on top of the microwave. Remove these screws and gently pull outward on the top portion of the grille to release the tabs.
3. Find the screw at the top of the touch panel. Remove it and lift the control panel up and out to release the bottom tab connections.

Step 2: Check the keypad

1. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
2. Connect the multimeter probes to the terminals of the microwave keypad ribbon connector.
3. Press the key for the terminals that are being tested. The table for the corresponding terminals and buttons may be listed on the technical sheet for your specific model.
4. Check the multimeter display. If the resistance reading is significantly different from the accepted range in the technical sheet, then the keypad is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If you make it through testing the keypad and no keys test bad, then the control board will need to be replaced.

Read more: How to Clean a Microwave

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Maytag microwave working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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