Now:

There are hundreds of Maytag washer error codes. However, none holds the mystique quite like the elusive 5D.

Here’s a twist.

The actual error code is Sd, not 5d. However, due to how it appears on the display, many users read it as 5d. 

But what does this error code mean? 

Well, this post is all about it—the causes, troubleshooting steps, and fixes that will leave you laundry-savvy and error-free.

What Does The Maytag Washer 5D Code Mean?

The Maytag washer 5D or (Sd) error code means there are excessive suds during the wash cycle. The error can occur when you use too much detergent or a non-HE detergent. The code can also pop up in the case of a clogged or blocked drain hose, a faulty pressure switch, or a worn-out washer drive hub. 

Buckle up and keep reading as we unravel each of these mischievous culprits.

In my pursuit of unraveling this faulty code, I called upon our trusty troubleshooter and appliance repair expert, Todd Hofer. 

We joined forces to compare notes, decode the secrets, and conquer the mysteries of the 5d error code.

Here is a summary of the Sd faulty code:

Error	5d or Sd
Meaning	Too many suds in the drum
Causes	Using too much detergent Not using high-efficiency (HE) detergent Worn-out drive hub kit Clogged or blocked drain hose Faulty water level pressure switch Overloading the washer Clogged drain filter

7 Causes And Fixes For The Maytag Washer 5d/Sd Error Code

1. Using Too Much Detergent

Problem:

The first and most obvious cause of the Sd/5d Maytag washer code is using too much detergent.

Todd says…

“Using too much detergent creates excess suds, posing a challenge for the washer.“

If the suds overwhelm the washer, it triggers the Sd/5d error.

You see:

Too many suds make it hard for the washer to rinse the load, which is why you will find detergent residues on the clothes. 

That’s not all:

As the washer tries to deal with the excessive suds, it strains the different components involved in the rinsing and draining processes. 

Identification and Solution:

Identifying if this is the cause is easy since you can see the suds through the lid or door. 

Note:

When the washer displays the error code, don’t do anything yet. Typically, the washer will extend the cycle and add more water to deal with the suds. 

The long-term solution is to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding detergent usage and type.  

This ensures proper cleaning, rinsing, and optimal performance of the washing machine.

2. Not Using High Efficiency (HE) Detergent

Problem:

Another cause of the Sd/5d error code is using the wrong type of laundry detergent, which produces a lot of suds. 

Regular detergents are notorious for creating excessive suds, which form a barrier that prevents water from fully reaching and interacting with the fabric.

This results in inadequate cleaning and poor rinsing.

Note:

According to Maytag, the Sd/5d error code can also be triggered when you use splash-less or easy-pour liquid chlorine bleach.

This is because these cleaning products have a thickening agent that can create excess suds. 

Identification and Solution:

Easy!

According to Todd…

“If you have a HE washer, only use HE detergent since these machines are designed to work with this type of detergent.”

Even if you don’t have a HE washer, consider using a HE detergent to avoid sudsy issues. 

3. Worn-out Drive Hub Kit

Sometimes, a Maytag washer will display the 5d/Sd error code, even when you are using HE detergent. 

In such a situation, there are other causes that are not necessarily connected to the detergent.

Now:

Drawing from our field expertise and insights from our Facebook Group, the major cause of the Sd error is actually a faulty component, such as a worn-out or damaged drive hub kit. 

Problem:

The drive hub kit is the part that connects the agitator or wash plate to the drive system to facilitate its rotation.

Now:

If the drive hub kit is worn out or damaged, the washer won’t drain or spin correctly. 

According to Todd…

“Therefore the suds will not be rinsed or drained out despite the spinning action.”

If the washer detects that the suds are not reducing during a spin cycle, it may interpret it as excessive suds, triggering the Sd code.

Identification:

To troubleshoot the drive hub kit, carefully observe the tub’s movement while the washer is spinning.

Next:

Rotate the wash plate manually and assess how it feels. If there is excessive play or wobbling, it could indicate a problem with the drive hub kit.

Finally, locate the drive hub kit below the wash plate and visually inspect it. 

However:

Getting to the drive hub kit can be a laborious endeavor, requiring a fair amount of effort. So be ready to break a sweat. 

When you have it, examine it for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, breaks, or excessive wear.

Solution:

If you have determined that the drive hub kit is to blame, the recommended solution is to replace it with a new one.

Luckily, the kit is cheap and easy to replace, provided you are able to locate it. 

4. Kinked Or Clogged Drain Hose

Problem:

When faced with the Sd/5d error code, another potential culprit to consider is a drain hose that is kinked, clogged, or improperly installed.

According to Todd, “If the drain hose is obstructed or kinked, it will prevent the proper removal of suds.”

The washer will then detect that the suds are not reducing despite the spinning action, which will trigger the Sd/5d faulty code. 

Identification:

Troubleshooting the drain hose for the above issues is quite simple. Locate it and Inspect it for any kinks, twists, or blockages. 

Solution:

First, straighten out any kinks and ensure the hose is unobstructed.

In case of a clog, disconnect the hose from the washer and run water through it, or use a plumber’s snake to remove any blockages.

Finally:

Ensure that the drain hose is properly installed. Check the owner’s manual for the maximum height (usually 96″) and ensure it doesn’t go too deep into the standpipe. 

5. Clogged Drain Filter

Problem:

A clogged or blocked drain filter can also trigger the Sd (Or 5d) error.

How?

The drain filter, also known as the pump filter, is designed to catch lint, fabric fiber, or debris from the water being drained.

However:

When it gets clogged, it can impede water flow out of the washer. This means the suds will be drained slowly. 

“When the washer detects that the suds are not clearing as intended, it may display the sud error code,” Todd explains. 

Identification:

To troubleshoot the drain filter, the first step is to locate it. For most washers, it’s near the bottom of the machine, behind a panel or access door.

Next:

Examine the drain filter for clogs or blockages, such as debris or lint.  Sometimes, you will find more than just debris and fabric fiber.

For instance:

This user on Reddit found two bra cushions stuck in the drain filter of their Maytag MHW6630HW0 washing machine. 

Solution:

If the drain filter is clogged, clean it under running water to remove all the debris or buildup. 

6. Faulty Pressure Switch Or Sensor

Problem:

Another cause of the Sd error code is a faulty water level pressure switch.

However, this elusive but important component is often overlooked.

Now:

The water level pressure switch, also known as the pressure sensor or water level sensor, detects the amount of water in the tub.

As Todd says,

“It sends signals to the control board to either allow or stop the flow of water into the washer.”

But how does a faulty water sensor trigger the 5d/Sd error?

Well:

A faulty water level pressure switch may fail to accurately detect the water level.

If it provides an incorrect reading and signals the machine to stop filling prematurely, the water may not be sufficient to dilute the detergent.  

This can result in an inadequate detergent-to-water ratio, leading to excessive suds.

Also:

A faulty water level sensor may signal the washer to stop draining prematurely, leaving behind suds in the drum.

In such a case,

The sensors may interpret the continued presence of suds as a foam-related issue and trigger the Sd/5d error code.

Identification:

The first thing to do here is to locate the pressure switch. For most Maytag washing machines, you will find it near the top or side of the tub.

Next:

Inspect the pressure switch and the tubing connected to it. Look for loose connections, holes, or blockages.

Also:

Gently blow air into the tubing and listen for any air leaks.

Finally:

Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the pressure switch and compare your readings to the specified values.

Solution:

If you have determined that the water level pressure switch is faulty, replace it. 

7. Overloading The Washer

Problem:

Although indirectly, overloading a washer can also trigger the Sd/5d error code. 

How?

When a washer is overloaded, there is limited space for water and detergent to circulate around the clothes. 

Therefore:

Water will not reach all the fabric surfaces to rinse out all the suds. 

Secondly:

Overloading can also impact the draining process, as there is not enough space for the water to pass during draining. 

According to Todd,

“This can result in slow or incomplete draining, leaving behind suds, which is the catalyst for the error code.”

Identification and Solution:

The easiest way to tell if your washer is overloaded is to check if the load is moving freely in the tub.

If you suspect overloading as the cause, remove some items to reduce the load.

Run a clean washer cycle and observe if the error code disappears.

Most Affected Maytag Models

Now:

There is no Maytag washer model that is immune to the 5d (Sd) error code. Luckily, this guide applies to almost every Maytag model, including

• Maytag Bravos Xl
• Maytag 2000 Series
• Maytag Bravos Quiet Series 300
• Maytag Epic Z
• Maytag Cabrio
• Maytag Neptune Front Load Washer
• Maytag Bravos XL MVWB750YW0
• Maytag 2000 Front Load
• Maytag MHW6630HW0 Washer
• Maytag Bravos MTW6600T Top Load Washer
• Maytag Washer NFW7200TW
• Maytag EPIC MFW9700S Front Load Washer
• Maytag Bravos 3.8 Cu. Ft. Washer
• Maytag Epic W Front End Load Washer

In Conclusion…

Don’t let the 5d error code on your Maytag washer leave you stuck in suds! With this troubleshooting guide, you’ll be able to tackle the issue head-on. 

Whether it has been caused by excessive detergent suds, using non-HE detergent, clogged drain filters, or faulty components, we’ve covered it all

If the cause is too complex for you, for instance, a worn-out drive hub kit, consider seeking the assistance of a professional.

Don’t forget to reset the washer, as this can resolve the issue if it was caused by a software glitch. 

Also, check out our community of experts and enthusiasts ready to lend a helping hand with all your appliance-related queries.

Frequently Asked Questions