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Maytag microwave SE error code

Maytag microwave SE means the control detected a stuck or shorted keypad — one button reads as pressed continuously. Steam from cooking, cleaner residue, or a failing touch panel causes most SE codes on JVM3160 and ME21M706ASG models. Unplug, clean the keypad with a barely damp cloth, and dry thoroughly before restoring power.

Reviewed August 2025 · sources below

Safe to keep using?

Use caution

This issue may worsen during use — limit operation and address promptly.

  • • Microwave high-voltage components can retain lethal charge even when unplugged.

5 product recalls may apply

Brand-level matches — verify your model.

Show

  • Whirlpool Recalls Microwaves Due to Fire Hazard

    Aug 2016 · Confirm your model

    Notice

  • Whirlpool Recalls Jenn-Air Wall Ovens Due to Risk of Burns

    Jul 2015 · Confirm your model

    Notice

  • CPSC, Maytag Corp. Announce Recall of Jenn-Air Gas Cooktops

    Nov 2004 · Confirm your model

    Notice

  • CPSC, Whirlpool Announce Recall of Cooking Products

    Aug 2004 · Confirm your model

    Notice

  • CPSC, Maytag Corp. Announce Recall to Repair Gas Ranges

    Mar 2003 · Confirm your model

    Notice

Next step

Still seeing SE?

Show a photo or describe the symptom. Answer a few safety-first questions and see whether a part is needed.

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Free guided checks · No account required · Don’t open live electrical, gas, or refrigerant equipment

How to fix SE

  1. Unplug the microwave for 5 minutes to reset the control.
  2. Clean the keypad with a damp cloth — remove grease and cleaner residue between buttons.
  3. Dry the panel completely — moisture from steam is a common SE trigger.
  4. Restore power and test each button — SE returns if one key still reads stuck.
  5. Replace the touch panel or control board only if SE persists after cleaning and drying.

Call a pro when: Call a technician if SE persists after panel replacement or you see burn marks at the control.

What SE means

Keypad or wiring fault — a key may be stuck.

Parts for this repair

We don't yet have a verified exact part number for this model. Search for a compatible Keypad or wiring.

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DIY Difficulty
4 /10MODERATE

DIY difficulty: 4/10 — this repair usually requires electrical testing.

Time: 30–60 minutes
Risk: Moderate
Skill: Intermediate
Tools: Screwdriver, Adjustable pliers, Multimeter, Flashlight, Work gloves
Power disconnect required

Likely causes

Most likelyUser-serviceable issue

Many codes resolve with cleaning, resetting, or reconnecting.

Check: Power-cycle the appliance and check for obvious blockages or loose connections.

Est. cost: $0–$0

PossibleFailed component

Wear or electrical failure of an internal part.

Check: If basic checks fail, the faulty component likely needs replacement.

Est. cost: $0–$100

Repair or Replace?

DIY repair

$35–$65

Professional repair

$223–$302

Comparable replacement

$723–$977

Our recommendation

REPAIR LIKELY MAKES SENSE

REPAIR LIKELY MAKES SENSE. Professional repair ($223–$302) is well below replacement cost.

Actual repair and replacement costs vary by model, location, labor rate, and condition.

Guided repair checklist

Complete the safe checks one at a time. Progress is saved for this browser so you can continue later.

0 of 5 checks recorded

Recommended next action

Start with this check before considering replacement parts.

Check 1 of 5

Unplug the microwave for 5 minutes to reset the control.

Did the repair resolve the issue?

Restoring repair progress…

Repair videos

How Fix Samsung Microwave SE Error Code (5E) (Press Firmly on Control Panel)

How Fix Samsung Microwave SE Error Code (5E) (Press Firmly on Control Panel)

Maytag microwave SE code

Maytag microwave SE code

Fixing a broken Samsung Microwave - The dreaded 5E error code -- aka the SE error code.

Fixing a broken Samsung Microwave - The dreaded 5E error code -- aka the SE error code.

User manuals
Start with the official support page, then use the search options if that link has moved. You’ll usually need your model number.
OfficialMaytag manuals & literature

Search by model number for owner’s manuals and literature.

Manual librarySearch Maytag Microwave manuals on ManualsLib

Free scanned manuals — search results, not a guaranteed match.

Web searchSearch the web for Maytag Microwave user manual

Useful when manufacturer pages move or don’t list older models.

Questions about SE

What does SE mean on a Maytag microwave?

SE is a stuck key fault — the control sees a button pressed continuously.

How do I reset Maytag SE?

Unplug, clean and dry the keypad, then restore power.

Can steam cause SE?

Yes — moisture between keypad layers triggers stuck-key detection.

Do I need a new panel for SE?

Cleaning fixes many cases — replace the panel if one key stays stuck electrically.

Other Maytag Microwave codes

Whirlpool F21LG OEBosch E24Maytag F21Samsung 5EKenmore F21

Prevent this problem next time

  • Follow manufacturer maintenance schedule
  • Address small issues before they worsen

Sources

Manufacturer meaning

Keypad or wiring fault — a key may be stuck.

FixApplianceCode guidance

Start with basic checks for Maytag SE before ordering parts.

Source type: Part database

Source: ModelPartFinder + FixApplianceCode editorial

Last reviewed: 2026-10-24

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