Maytag MDBTT79AWW Dishwasher with a bad case of Gremlins
Got a bad case of Gremlins. You know the kind that is absolutely invisible and drives you bonkers …
Maytag Quiet Series 300 – MDBTT79AW purchased around 2003 /4.
The unit will shut down with all lights out sometime midcycle. The point of failure is random; however, it will always be after a fill cycle and before a motor start.
Example:
The unit fills with water. Waits a few seconds. Starts. Drains. Fills. Waits. Then all of the lights go out and nothing more happens.
The “Lights Out” Gremlin always attacks after a fill operation, but could be any of the fill opportunities through out the cycle. The good news is that after restarting enough times we either get a whole cycle or at least one wash and a dozen rinses.
I have discovered by trial and error and some internet information that can run a field service test by pressing the “Heavy Wash” key 5 times followed by “Start”. Most items say use the “Heated Dry” key 6 times followed by “Start”. I assume that it is a different controller or program setup than most referenced on the internet.
Recommendations for troubleshooting? Where could I find the appropriate service manual or technical sheet on this unit. Doc 16026393 does not seem appropriate because it references the wrong button sequence to initiate the test.