How to troubleshoot & fix E11 and E12 Maytag microwave errors (2024)

Seeing an E11 or E12 error on your over-the-range Maytag microwave? These are common errors that you can resolve yourself with a little troubleshooting.

If you need any replacement parts for your Maytag microwave, 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 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.

What do the E11 and E12 errors mean?

Both the E11 and E12 error codes are typically related to electrical continuity issues between your microwave’s control board and the humidity sensor. In both cases, the control board isn’t receiving accurate temperature and humidity readings from the sensor.

• An E11 code usually means there’s an open circuit detected in the humidity sensor and that it’s lost its electrical connection with the control board.
• An E12 code usually indicates a short circuit in the sensor from electrical contacts that are no longer connected correctly.

Possible causes of these error codes include:

A bad humidity sensor

The delicate humidity sensor can become damaged or malfunction over time.

Damaged sensor wiring

The connections and associated wiring between the sensor and control board may wear out over years of use.

A defective control board

Degraded contacts or failed relays on the microwave’s control board can prevent accurate readings.

Read more: A guide to understanding microwave wattage

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.
• Discharge the high-voltage capacitor before working on high-voltage parts to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
• 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.
• With the microwave unplugged, remove the outer case to gain internal access.
• Wear insulated gloves and use insulated tools when testing any parts.
• Check all parts for damage before reassembling and powering up the microwave again.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting when testing.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it.

Read more: How to Install and Replace a Microwave

How to troubleshoot E11 or E12 errors

Follow these steps to resolve the E11 and E12 errors on your over-the-range Maytag microwave.

Step 1: Remove the humidity sensor

1. Unplug the microwave from the outlet.
2. Dismount the microwave and set it on a flat surface.
3. Find the grille screws at the front on top of the microwave. Remove these screws and gently pull the top portion of the grille outward to release the tabs.
4. 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.
5. Remove the screws that secure the air vent to the outer case.
6. Remove the screws that hold the outer case to the chassis.
7. Remove the screws that secure the vent plate to the outer case.
8. If there’s a power cord cover, remove the screw that holds it to the outer case, then remove the power cord cover.
9. Slide the outer case towards the back of the unit and guide the power cord through the power cord hole in the outer case. Set the outer case aside.
10. Remove the screws that hold the sensor to the air vent.
11. Disconnect the wire terminal plug and remove the humidity sensor. Check the sensor for any obvious damage. If there’s any visible damage, replace the sensor.

Step 2: Test the humidity sensor

1. Set a multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
2. Connect the multimeter probes to the red-wired and black-wired terminals of the humidity sensor.
3. Check the multimeter display. You should see a resistance reading of about 30Ω. Slight variations might occur depending on the room temperature.

If the resistance reading significantly deviates from the acceptable value, then the humidity sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the sensor wiring

Look over the wiring connected to the sensor and back to the control board. Check for any damaged wires, frays or breaks. If you find any damage, replace the sensor wiring.

If the wiring looks good, replace the control board as a last resort.

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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