Introduction
Use this guide to replace the drain pump and filter assembly in a Maytag front-load washing machine that won't drain, leaves water in the tub, or shows an FO2 error code. The drain pump moves wash water out during drain and spin. Replace it if cleaning debris from the pump doesn't restore draining, or if the pump has failed from wear. This guide was written for a front-load Maytag washer with a lower access panel, so some mounting details may differ on other models.
What you need
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Step 1 Make the washer safe
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Turn off the water supply if you need to move the washer or disturb the fill hoses.
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Set a large bowl and towels under the front of the washer to catch water from the pump and hoses.
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Step 2 Check the drain symptoms
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Check for an FO2 code, water left in the tub, or a Drain and Spin cycle that counts down without pumping.
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Replace the drain pump if cleaning debris doesn't restore draining, or if the pump has failed from age.
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Step 3 Remove the lower access panel
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Use a 1/4 inch nut driver to remove the three screws from the lower front cover.
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Open the lower drawer, lift it, and remove it from the washer.
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Step 4 Prepare the drain area
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Place a large bowl directly under the drain-pump area.
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Squeeze the two clips on the nearby connector retainer and move it out of the way.
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Step 5 Release and unplug the pump
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Remove the screw through the rubber grommet if your pump uses one.
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For a pull-tab mount, press the pump upward and pull the front tab forward to release it.
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Slide the rear rubber feet off the mount and pull the pump forward.
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Unclip the pump wire from its holder.
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Squeeze the two tabs on the connector cover, lift the cover, and unplug the pump connector.
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Step 6 Drain the pump
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Position the loose pump so the cleanout cover points toward the bowl.
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Slowly loosen the cleanout cover to start draining water.
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Empty the bowl as needed until the water stops flowing.
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Step 7 Remove the pump hoses
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Use pliers or tongue-and-groove pliers to squeeze the first hose clamp.
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Slide the clamp back on the hose.
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Work the hose off the pump fitting.
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Repeat the clamp and hose removal for the second hose.
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Remove the drain pump from the washer.
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Step 8 Check the replacement pump
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Compare the replacement drain-pump and filter assembly with the old pump before installing it.
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Check the mount layout before installation.
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Step 9 Mount the new pump
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Slide the rear mounting tabs of the new pump into the back slots.
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Press the front feet into the front mount.
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Pull the front tab into place so it locks over the pump mount.
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Step 10 Reconnect the hoses
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Use pliers or tongue-and-groove pliers to compress the clamp on the rear hose.
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Slide the rear hose fully over the rear pump fitting before releasing the clamp.
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Compress the clamp for the second hose and slide that hose fully over the front pump fitting.
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Release the second clamp after the hose is fully seated.
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Step 11 Reconnect the wiring
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Plug the pump connector back into its matching socket.
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Close the connector cover.
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Clip the wiring back into its retainer so it stays away from the pump and hoses.
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Reinstall the clips that hold the connector retainer in place.
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Step 12 Test for leaks and drainage
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Leave the lower access cover off so you can see the pump during testing.
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Dry the area under the pump and hoses with a towel.
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Restore power and run a cycle that fills briefly and drains.
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Watch both hose connections, the cleanout cover, and the pump housing for leaks.
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The washer should pump water out strongly after the pump primes.
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Step 13 Reinstall the access panel
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Cancel the test cycle and unplug the washer.
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Reinstall the lower drawer or access cover.
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Use a 1/4 inch nut driver or Torx screwdriver to reinstall the three screws.
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Run a Drain and Spin cycle and confirm the FO2 code doesn't return.
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Run one complete wash and drain cycle after the repair, and check the floor under the washer for any signs of water. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.