What are the symptoms of error code PAU?

Washer displays PAU and stops mid-cycle, Washer will not continue until Start/Pause is pressed, Washer drains and stops unexpectedly, Washer pauses when the lid or door is opened, Washer may beep when buttons are pressed

What causes error code PAU?

User pressed the Pause/Cancel button, Door or lid opened during operation, Power interruption or voltage drop, Washer paused automatically due to imbalance, Washer paused due to excessive suds, Faulty lid switch or door lock causing false pauses, Loose power connection or tripped breaker

How do I fix error code PAU?

Press Start/Pause to resume the cycle., Ensure the door or lid is fully closed and latched., Check for power interruptions or loose plugs., Redistribute the load if the washer paused due to imbalance., Reduce detergent use if excessive suds caused the pause., Inspect the lid switch or door lock for intermittent operation., Restart the cycle if the washer drained before pausing.

Maytag Washer - PAU Error Code

The washer cycle has been paused.

Meaning

The washer cycle has been paused.

The Maytag PAU error code indicates that the washer cycle has been paused by the user or by the machine. This code appears across multiple Maytag platforms, including front-load MAH models, Bravos/Bravos XL/Centennial/VMW top-load models, and Neptune TL washers. The meaning is identical across all platforms: the washer has entered a paused state and will not continue until the user resumes the cycle or resolves the condition that caused the pause.

Symptoms

Washer displays PAU and stops mid-cycle
Washer will not continue until Start/Pause is pressed
Washer drains and stops unexpectedly
Washer pauses when the lid or door is opened
Washer may beep when buttons are pressed

Causes

User pressed the Pause/Cancel button
Door or lid opened during operation
Power interruption or voltage drop
Washer paused automatically due to imbalance
Washer paused due to excessive suds
Faulty lid switch or door lock causing false pauses
Loose power connection or tripped breaker

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Step-by-Step Fixes

Press Start/Pause to resume the cycle.
Ensure the door or lid is fully closed and latched.
Check for power interruptions or loose plugs.
Redistribute the load if the washer paused due to imbalance.
Reduce detergent use if excessive suds caused the pause.
Inspect the lid switch or door lock for intermittent operation.
Restart the cycle if the washer drained before pausing.

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Safety Notes

Disconnect power before servicing the lid switch or door lock.
Avoid opening the lid or door during high-speed spin.
Do not overload the washer, as this can trigger repeated pauses.

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Applicable Models

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Front-Load Maytag MAH Series: MAH3000AWW, MAH4000AWW, MAH5500AWW, MAH6500AWW, MAH7500AWW, MAH8700AWW, MAH9700AWW
Top-Load Maytag Bravos Series: MVWB300WQ, MVWB400VQ, MVWB450WQ, MVWB700VQ, MVWB750WQ, MVWB850YW, MVWB880BW, MVWB950YG
Top-Load Maytag Bravos XL Series: MVWB725BW, MVWB835DW, MVWB855DC, MVWB855DW, MVWB950YW
Top-Load Maytag Centennial Series: MVWC300BW, MVWC350BW, MVWC360FW, MVWC415EW, MVWC425BW, MVWC565FW, MVWC575FW
Top-Load Maytag Early VMW Series: MVWC6ESWW, MVWC700VW, MVWC700VQ, MVWC7000WQ, MVWC7000XW, MVWC7000YW, MVWC750YW
Top-Load Maytag Neptune TL Series: FAV6800AWW, FAV9800AWW

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Other Maytag Washer Error Codes

Show All Error Codes

Model-Specific Notes

Front-load models typically show PAU when the door is opened or the user presses Pause. Bravos, Centennial, and VMW top-load models often trigger PAU due to lid switch interruptions or imbalance pauses. Neptune TL models may trigger PAU when torque feedback indicates an unsafe spin condition.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Repairs involve electrical, mechanical, and water-related risks. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consider contacting a qualified technician for diagnosis or repair.