Is your Maytag Bravos washing machine acting up—stuck mid-cycle, flashing error codes, or just refusing to start? You’re not alone. Many homeowners face these frustrating hiccups, often wondering if a reset could save them time and money.
Knowing how to reset your washer can quickly solve common problems and get laundry day back on track. In this article, we’ll walk you through the easy steps to reset your Maytag Bravos washer, along with helpful tips and troubleshooting insights.
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How to Reset a Maytag Bravos Washing Machine
If your Maytag Bravos washing machine is acting up—maybe it won’t start, it’s stuck on a cycle, or it’s displaying error codes—a reset may be all you need to get it back on track. Resetting your machine is one of the easiest troubleshooting steps you can take before calling in professional help. Let’s walk through the various ways you can reset your Maytag Bravos washer, practical tips to keep in mind, and frequently asked questions you might have.
Why Resetting Your Washer Matters
Modern washing machines like the Maytag Bravos come equipped with electronic control boards, sensors, and software. Over time, these can become confused by power surges, interrupted cycles, or minor glitches. A simple reset can:
- Clear error codes
- Restore the control board to normal function
- Resolve minor operational glitches
- Potentially save you the cost and hassle of a repair visit
4 Effective Ways to Reset Your Maytag Bravos Washing Machine
Ready to get started? Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for the most common reset methods. These work for many Maytag Bravos models, including the Bravos X, XL, and XL MCT.
1. Unplug and Power Cycle (Hard Reset)
This is the most straightforward and effective reset method.
- Turn off the washing machine using the control panel.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
- Wait for at least 3 minutes (5 minutes is even better) to allow any residual charge in the washer’s capacitor to dissipate.
- Plug the washer back in.
- Start a new cycle to see if the issue has been resolved.
This process gives your washer a “fresh start” by cutting off all electrical power.
2. Lid Lift Reset
Some minor issues can be cleared by lifting and lowering the washer lid.
- Make sure the washer is turned on but not running a cycle.
- Open and close the lid six times within a 12-second period.
- Listen for a click or see indicator lights reset. This signals the washer recognizes the lid actions.
- Restart the washing cycle.
This method forces the control board to recheck the lid-lock status and often clears certain error codes.
3. Cycle Selector (Dial) Reset
If your Bravos has a control dial, you can use this sequence:
- Turn the selector knob to the ‘Normal’ position (usually at the 12 o’clock mark).
- With the knob set to Normal, quickly turn it counterclockwise one click, then clockwise three clicks, counterclockwise one click, and finally clockwise one click.
- All indicator lights should flash (or the display will reset). This means it’s in diagnostic mode.
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Push Start/Pause to exit diagnostics and return to normal operation.
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Tip*: This sequence can vary slightly by model. If the lights do not flash, repeat the process, making each movement quick and accurate.
4. Control Panel or Factory Reset
Some Bravos models have a dedicated reset or “Cancel” button combination.
- Turn the selector knob to any position except ‘Off’.
- Press and hold the ‘Start/Pause’ button for 3 seconds.
- Press and hold the ‘Power/Cancel’ button for 3 seconds.
- Wait a moment for the control panel to clear and reset.
If your model doesn’t have this exact setup, consult your owner’s manual for similar button combinations.
What to Expect After Resetting
After resetting, most error codes or glitches should disappear. If you still see the same error code repeatedly or the machine won’t operate correctly, the issue may be more serious and related to hardware, connections, or sensors. In these cases, you might need to investigate further or contact a professional.
Benefits of Resetting Your Maytag Bravos Washer
- Quick and easy: Most resets can be done in less than five minutes, with no tools or technical knowledge required.
- Safe: Resetting doesn’t void your warranty or harm the machine.
- Saves money: Avoids unnecessary service calls for easily fixed issues.
- Prevents escalation: Small glitches, if left unresolved, can sometimes cause bigger problems later.
Things to Watch Out For
- Repeated problems: If you find yourself needing to reset frequently, there may be a deeper issue at play—such as a faulty control board, lid switch, or wiring problem.
- Unplug safely: Always unplug the washer by pulling the plug, not by tugging the cord.
- Caution with digital models: Some advanced Maytag Bravos washers may have unique reset procedures. If basic resets don’t work, check your model’s manual or seek assistance.
Best Practices and Practical Tips
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your washer clean, especially around the lid switch and sensor areas.
- Surge Protection: Using a surge protector can help prevent random electronic failures caused by electrical spikes.
- Balance Loads: Overloading or repeatedly running unbalanced loads can trigger errors that require resets.
- Record Error Codes: If your washer displays an error, note it down before resetting. This information can be invaluable if professional service is needed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues That a Reset Can Help Solve
- Machine won’t start or finish cycles
- Stuck on a particular cycle phase
- Display showing errors like F5, F51, LF, or lid lock messages
- Unexpected beeping, clicking, or flashing lights
- Washer not draining or spinning correctly
Resetting the machine often clears these temporary glitches and gets you back to hassle-free laundry.
When to Reset and When to Call for Help
While resetting is a powerful first step for many minor issues, it’s not a cure-all. Contact a qualified technician if:
- The washer fails to power on after a reset
- Error codes persist after multiple resets
- There are visible signs of damage (like burnt wires or water leaks)
- The washer frequently stops mid-cycle
Trust your instincts: If it feels unsafe, or the problem remains unresolved after trying these resets, let a professional investigate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I reset my Maytag Bravos washer by using just the power button?
No, simply turning the washer off using the power button does not perform a full reset. For a complete reset, you should unplug the washer from the power source and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in.
Why does my Maytag Bravos washer need to be reset so often?
If you’re frequently resetting your washer, it may indicate an underlying problem, such as issues with the control board, sensors, or wiring. Chronic resets are a sign that a deeper diagnostic or a service call may be necessary.
Is it safe to unplug my washer to reset it?
Yes, it’s safe to unplug your washing machine for a few minutes to reset it. Always make sure your hands are dry and you’re not standing in water behind the washer. Plug the appliance back into a grounded outlet.
Will resetting the washer erase my custom settings or presets?
A standard power reset will not usually erase your washer’s saved settings. If you perform a factory reset or enter diagnostic mode, some custom settings may revert to default. Always check your cycle options after resetting.
What should I do if resetting doesn’t fix my washer issue?
If resetting doesn’t solve the problem, note any error codes and details about the issue. Check your user manual for guidance, and consider contacting Maytag customer support or a certified repair technician, especially if the problem persists.
Final Thoughts
Resetting your Maytag Bravos washing machine is a quick, safe, and effective first step when dealing with minor glitches or error codes. By following the step-by-step methods outlined above, you can often restore your washer to full working order in just a few minutes. Remember, regular resets should not be needed—if problems keep returning, it’s time to dig deeper or call in a professional.
Keep your appliance running smoothly by practicing good laundry habits, balancing loads, using surge protectors, and performing regular maintenance. Now you’re ready to tackle laundry day with confidence, knowing your reset toolbox is always at hand!