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Maytag·Refrigeratorhigh severity
Maytag Refrigerator Error Code PC1
Compressor drive circuit fault
Common Causes
- 1Start relay / overload pack failed
- 2Compressor motor windings shorted or open
- 3Inverter drive board burned
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- 1
Cup an ear to the machine compartment at the back — a click every few minutes is the relay straining to spin a stalled rotor
- 2
Unclip the start relay and overload from the compressor pins and shake it; an internal rattle means the contact has broken loose
- 3
Meter the three compressor pins in pairs — run-to-start, run-to-common, start-to-common should each read a sane winding value, not open
- 4
On an inverter box, pull the drive board and scan it for scorch marks or a bulged component near the output stage
Pro Diagnostic Tip
The start relay is a few-dollar pod that dies far more often than the compressor it feeds, and the compressor is the priciest part in the whole appliance — so shake-test the relay first. On the Maytag MFI and MFF cabinets a steady hum that clicks off after a beat is the overload tripping on the surge current of a seized compressor.
You Might Also Notice
- •The cabinet has quit cooling entirely
- •A rhythmic click from the back every few minutes
- •The compressor hums for a beat then drops out
- •Both the fresh-food and freezer sides are drifting warm
Parts, Cost & Difficulty
Repair Difficulty
Professional OnlyEstimated Repair Cost
$150–$600
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
W10613606 Compressor Start Relay/OverloadW11305307 Inverter Board
Do You Have the Right Tools?
Refrigerant gauges ($200+), vacuum pump ($250), leak detector ($150), and EPA-certified recovery equipment. Our technician arrives with $3,000+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
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Refrigerant (R-134a/R-600a) requires EPA certification to handle. Improper discharge is a federal violation and health hazard. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
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Get Professional Help Now
Error code PC1 is a high-severity issue that can cause further damage to your refrigerator if left unresolved. A licensed technician can diagnose and fix it the same day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Maytag error code PC1 mean?
Maytag error code PC1 indicates: Compressor drive circuit fault. This is a high-severity issue affecting your refrigerator.
How do I fix Maytag error code PC1?
Cup an ear to the machine compartment at the back — a click every few minutes is the relay straining to spin a stalled rotor Then, Unclip the start relay and overload from the compressor pins and shake it; an internal rattle means the contact has broken loose Then, Meter the three compressor pins in pairs — run-to-start, run-to-common, start-to-common should each read a sane winding value, not open There are 1 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. This repair typically requires professional tools and expertise.
How do I know if my refrigerator has error PC1?
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: The cabinet has quit cooling entirely; A rhythmic click from the back every few minutes; The compressor hums for a beat then drops out. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your refrigerator's display panel for error code PC1.
How much does it cost to fix Maytag PC1?
Repair costs for Maytag PC1 typically range from $150 to $600 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.
Related Maytag Refrigerator Error Codes
POPower outage detectedlowCFMain board and display stopped talkinghighC1Freezer thermistor open circuithighC2Fresh-food thermistor open circuithighDoor Alarm LightThe Door Ajar Alarm feature sounds an alarm when the refrigerator door(s) or freezer drawer is left open for 2-5 minutes, depending on the model, and cooling is turned on.medium
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