How to Fix Maytag MVW6500MW Pet Pro Washer Error Codes & Reset

Introduction
The Maytag MVW6500MW is a 4.7 cu. ft. top-loading high-efficiency washer designed specifically for homes with pets. It features the Pet Pro Filter system, which captures pet hair during the wash cycle, and a built-in faucet for pre-treating stains. This manual covers everything you need to know about operating your MVW6500MW, from understanding the control panel and choosing the right cycle to troubleshooting error codes and maintaining your machine for years of reliable service.
This guide applies to the Maytag MVW6500MW and MVW6500MBK models. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific installation and safety instructions.
Product Overview
The Maytag MVW6500MW is a top-loading washer with a 4.7 cu. ft. capacity, making it suitable for large families and bulky items like comforters and pet beds. It uses a low-water wash system with a washplate and agitator to clean clothes efficiently. The Pet Pro Filter is the standout feature, designed to trap pet hair in the agitator during the wash cycle so it doesn’t redeposit on your clothes. The washer also includes a built-in water faucet for pre-soaking and pre-treating stains directly in the tub. It is ENERGY STAR certified and backed by a 10-year limited parts warranty on the drive motor and wash basket.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | MVW6500MW (White) / MVW6500MBK (Black) |
| Type | Top-Loading High-Efficiency Washer |
| Capacity | 4.7 cu. ft. |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | Approx. 27.5″ x 28″ x 42″ |
| Motor | Direct Drive |
| Wash System | Low-Water Washplate with Agitator |
| Pet Pro Filter | Yes, integrated into agitator |
| Built-in Faucet | Yes, for pre-treating |
| Dispensers | Detergent, Bleach, Fabric Softener |
| Controls | Electronic with Cycle Knob and Touch Buttons |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | No (non-connected model) |
| Energy Rating | ENERGY STAR Certified |
| Warranty | 10-year limited parts on drive motor and wash basket |
| In-the-Box | Washer, Owner’s Manual, Quick Start Guide, Drain Hose, Inlet Hoses |
Key Features
- Pet Pro Filter: A removable filter inside the agitator that captures pet hair during the wash cycle. It must be installed before every load to work effectively.
- Built-in Water Faucet: Located on the top of the washer, this faucet lets you pre-treat stains, pre-soak items, or fill the tub manually. It automatically shuts off after 10 minutes or when the water reaches the maximum level.
- Extra Power Button: Provides a boost of cleaning power for heavily soiled loads by increasing wash time and agitation.
- Deep Fill Option: Adds more water to the wash cycle for bulky items or when you want a deeper soak. This can also help reduce white residue on dark clothing.
- Pet Pro Option: A dedicated cycle modifier that boosts pet hair filtering performance. Select this option for loads with high amounts of pet hair.
- Low-Water Wash System: Uses less water than traditional top-loaders while still delivering effective cleaning. The washplate and agitator work together to move clothes through the water.
How to Use
What’s in the Box

- Maytag MVW6500MW Pet Pro Top Load Washer
- Drain hose
- Two inlet hoses (hot and cold)
- Owner’s Manual
- Quick Start Guide
Installation Summary
Installation should be performed by a qualified technician or someone comfortable with plumbing and electrical connections.
- Position the washer: Place on a level, hard floor near a grounded electrical outlet and water supply.
- Connect drain hose: Secure the drain hose to the standpipe or laundry tub. The standpipe must be at least 39″ high. Do not insert the hose more than 4.5″ into the standpipe.
- Connect inlet hoses: Attach the hot water hose to the hot faucet and the cold hose to the cold faucet. Hand-tighten, then use pliers for an additional two-thirds turn. Run water through the hoses into a bucket first to clear debris.
- Level the washer: Adjust the front levelling legs until the washer is level. Tighten the lock nuts.
- Plug in: Connect to a grounded 3-prong, 120V, 60Hz outlet.
Control Panel Overview
| Control | Function |
|---|---|
| POWER | Press to turn the washer on or off. Press to stop/cancel a cycle. |
| CYCLE KNOB | Turn to select the desired wash cycle. |
| START/PAUSE | Press and hold for 1 second to start a cycle. Press during a cycle to pause and unlock the lid. |
| TEMP | Cycles through available temperatures: Tap Cold, Cold, Cool, Warm, Hot. When no lights are illuminated, the selection is Tap Cold. |
| OPTIONS | Press once for Extra Rinse, twice for Deep Fill, three times for both. |
| PET PRO | Press to activate the Pet Pro modifier for enhanced pet hair removal. |
| FAUCET | Press to turn the built-in faucet on. Press again to turn it off. Automatically shuts off after 10 minutes. |
Operating Instructions
- Sort and load laundry: Load items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate and agitator. Do not lay items lengthwise around them. For best pet hair removal, do not overload the washer.
- Add HE detergent: Remove the inside tray for powder HE detergent. Use only High-Efficiency (HE) detergent. Add bleach and fabric softener to their designated dispensers if desired.
- Press POWER to turn on the washer.
- Select a cycle using the CYCLE KNOB. Refer to the Cycle Guide below.
- Adjust cycle settings using the TEMP and OPTIONS buttons. Select PET PRO if your load has pet hair.
- Press and hold START/PAUSE for 1 second until all status lights illuminate, then release to begin the cycle.
Cycle Guide
| Cycle | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| NORMAL | Standard wash cycle with medium agitation. | Everyday cottons, mixed fabrics. |
| HEAVY DUTY | Longer wash time and higher agitation. | Heavily soiled items, work clothes. |
| WHITES | Hot water wash with extra rinse. | White cottons, bleach-safe fabrics. |
| BEDDING | Gentle wash with extra rinse. | Sheets, comforters, blankets. |
| DELICATES | Low agitation and slow spin. | Lingerie, blouses, sheer fabrics. |
| QUICK WASH | Shortened cycle for lightly soiled loads. | Small loads of lightly worn clothes. |
| RINSE & SPIN | Rinse and spin only, no wash. | Items that need rinsing, hand-washed items. |
| CLEAN WASHER | Cleaning cycle for the drum. | Monthly maintenance (no clothes inside). |
Using the Built-in Faucet
- Press the FAUCET button once to turn on the water.
- Use the faucet to pre-treat stains, fill the tub for soaking, or rinse items.
- Press the FAUCET button again to turn it off.
- The faucet automatically shuts off after 10 minutes or when the water reaches the maximum level.
Error Codes & Troubleshooting
Common Error Codes (Top-Loading Maytag Washers)
When an error occurs, the washer displays a code on the control panel. Codes are formatted as F#E# (Fault number + Error number) or as a text code like “Drn” or “LdL”.
| Code | Meaning | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Drn | Draining issue | Check the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or improper installation. Ensure the standpipe is at the correct height. |
| F# E# or F## | System error | Press START/PAUSE to clear the code, then press it again to restart. If the issue persists, contact a professional. |
| F0E1 | Items detected during Clean Washer cycle | Remove items from the drum and restart the Clean Washer cycle. |
| F0E2 | Over suds condition | Ensure you are using HE detergent and the correct amount. Allow the washer to run additional rinse cycles to clear suds. |
| F0E5 | Off-balance load detected | Pause the cycle, redistribute the load evenly, and restart. |
| F1E1 | Motor control board (MCU) failure | Contact a qualified technician. |
| F1E2 | Drive motor failure | Contact a qualified technician. |
| F5E2 | Door/lid not locking properly | Check the lid lock mechanism for obstructions. Remove any debris. |
| F7E1 | Motor speed sensing error | Check the drive motor and shift actuator. May require professional service. |
| F8E1 | Water supply error | Check that both hot and cold water faucets are fully open. Inspect inlet hoses for kinks or clogs. Clean the inlet screens. |
| F9E1 | Drain pump system error | Check the drain hose for clogs. Clean the drain pump filter if accessible. |
| HC | Hot and cold inlet hoses reversed | Turn off water supply and swap the hoses so each is connected to the correct inlet. |
| LdL | Lid cannot lock | Check the lid locking mechanism for obstructions. Remove any items blocking the lock. |
| LdU | Lid cannot unlock | Remove any items from the top of the washer lid. |
| LF or Lo FL | Fill cycle takes too long | Check water supply. Ensure both hot and cold faucets are fully open. |
| Lid | Lid left open | Close the lid to clear the code. |
| Ofb | Unbalanced load | Redistribute the load evenly and restart. |
| OL | Oversized load | Remove several items from the basket and restart. |
| PF | Power failure | Press and hold START to restart the cycle, or press POWER to clear. |
| Sud or Sd | Excessive suds | Use only HE detergent and reduce the amount. Run additional rinse cycles. |
General Troubleshooting
| Problem | Likely Cause | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Washer won’t start | Lid open, power issue, or control lock | Close the lid. Check power. Press and hold START/PAUSE. |
| Washer won’t drain | Clogged drain hose or pump | Check the drain hose for kinks. Clean the drain pump filter. |
| Washer won’t spin | Unbalanced load | Redistribute the load evenly. |
| No water entering | Water supply issue | Ensure both hot and cold faucets are open. Check inlet hoses for kinks. |
| Pet hair not being captured | Pet Pro Filter not installed | Ensure the Pet Pro Filter is installed in the agitator before the wash cycle. Select the PET PRO option. |
| Excessive vibration | Unlevel washer or unbalanced load | Level the washer using the front legs. Redistribute the load. |
| Odours in the washer | Mildew or detergent buildup | Run a CLEAN WASHER cycle with a washer cleaner. Leave the lid open between uses. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Pet Pro Filter and how does it work?
The Pet Pro Filter is a removable filter inside the agitator that captures pet hair during the wash cycle. It must be installed before every load to work effectively. It is designed to trap hair so it doesn’t redeposit on your clothes. - How often should I clean the Pet Pro Filter?
Clean the filter after every load with pet hair, or at least once a week with regular use. Rinse it under running water to remove trapped hair. - Does this washer require HE detergent?
Yes. The MVW6500MW is a high-efficiency washer and must use only HE (High Efficiency) detergent. Using regular detergent will cause excessive suds and error codes. - What does the “Deep Fill” option do?
The Deep Fill option adds more water to the wash cycle. Use it for bulky items, heavily soiled loads, or to reduce white residue on dark clothing. Press the OPTIONS button twice to activate it. - What is the built-in faucet for?
The faucet allows you to pre-treat stains, pre-soak items, or fill the tub manually. Press the FAUCET button to turn it on. It shuts off automatically after 10 minutes. - How do I run a clean washer cycle?
Remove all items from the drum. Add a washer cleaner or bleach to the dispenser. Select the CLEAN WASHER cycle and press START. - How do I level the washer?
Use a spirit level on top of the washer. Adjust the front levelling legs by turning them clockwise (to raise) or counter-clockwise (to lower). Tighten the lock nuts when level. - Can I use fabric softener?
Yes. Add liquid fabric softener to the designated dispenser. The washer will release it at the correct time in the cycle. - What does the “Sud” error mean?
It means excessive suds have been detected. This happens when too much detergent is used. Reduce the amount of HE detergent and run additional rinse cycles to clear the suds. - How do I reset the washer?
Press POWER to turn off the washer. Wait 30 seconds, then press POWER again. This clears most temporary error codes. For persistent codes, unplug the washer for 2 minutes.
Tips
- Always install the Pet Pro Filter before washing: The filter only works when it’s in place. Check that it’s properly seated in the agitator.
- Use HE detergent only: Regular detergent creates too many suds and can damage the washer over time. Use the recommended amount on the detergent label.
- Load items loosely: For best cleaning and pet hair removal, drop items in loose heaps around the washplate. Do not wrap items lengthwise around the agitator.
- Clean the Pet Pro Filter after every pet load: Rinse it under running water to remove trapped hair and debris. A clogged filter reduces cleaning performance.
- Leave the lid open between uses: This allows moisture to evaporate and prevents mildew and odours.
- Run a CLEAN WASHER cycle monthly: Use a washer cleaner or bleach to keep the drum hygienic.
- Check the drain hose regularly: Ensure it is not kinked or clogged. A blocked drain hose is the most common cause of drainage errors.
Safety Information
- Flammable items: Never place items in the washer that have been dampened with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable substances. These give off vapours that can ignite or explode.
- Hydrogen gas: If the hot water system has not been used for 2 weeks or more, hydrogen gas may be produced. Before using the washer, turn on all hot water faucets and let water flow for several minutes. Do not smoke or use an open flame during this time.
- Children: Do not allow children to play on or in the washer. Close supervision is necessary when the washer is used near children. Remove the lid before discarding the washer.
- Electrical: Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet. Do not remove the ground prong. Do not use an extension cord.
- Water supply: Turn off water faucets when the washer is not in use for extended periods.
- Lid: Do not reach into the washer while the drum, tub, or agitator is moving.
- Servicing: Disconnect power and water before servicing. Only use authorised Maytag parts and service technicians.
PDF Resources
For the official PDF manual and additional documentation, visit:
- Maytag MVW6500MW Owner’s Manual (PDF): Available for download at manualsfile.com and manua.ls.
- Maytag Quick Start Guide (PDF): Available at Maytag.com.
- Maytag Product Help & Error Codes: Visit producthelp.maytag.com
You can also save the official manual as a PDF by opening it in your browser and using File > Print > Save as PDF.
Related Manuals
If this guide was helpful, here are a few more popular manuals from productsmanuals.com that you might find useful:
- Maytag MVW7230HC Smart Top Load Washer – Cycles, App Setup & Troubleshooting
Explore Maytag’s smart-capable top-load washer with Wi-Fi connectivity and Extra Power button. - Samsung Washing Machine – Cycle Guide & Error Code Troubleshooting
Compare Samsung’s popular washers with their own cycle charts and error codes. - LG WM4000HWA Washer – TurboWash 360, ThinQ App & Troubleshooting
Explore LG’s front-load washer with smart features and steam cleaning. - Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 – Health Sensors, Galaxy AI & Battery Tips
Master ECG, body composition, sleep apnea detection, and more. - Honeywell T6 Pro TH6320U2008 – ISU Settings, Scheduling & Troubleshooting
Configure your programmable thermostat for heat pump and conventional systems.
Browse all guides at productsmanuals.com .
Copyright 2026 productsmanuals.com All rights reserved. This Maytag MVW6500MW Pet Pro Top Load Washer manual is original content and may not be copied, republished, or redistributed without written permission. Maytag, Pet Pro, and the Maytag logo are trademarks of Maytag Corporation. This guide is unofficial and not affiliated with Maytag.
