Direct answer
On the covered Maytag dryer, -:-- means dashes shown in the display instead of a time. Whirlpool, Maytag and Amana all publish this as a control state to power-cycle rather than a component fault, but the documented power-down time differs by brand. First, check whether any cycle still runs at all.
Definition versus diagnosis
The display names a detected condition—not an automatically failed part.
What this covers
- Maytag dryer covered by the cited source
- Displayed code or documented alias: -:--
- The exact operating state described by the manufacturer
What it does not cover
- ×Another product type or original-manufacturer platform
- ×A visually similar but different code
- ×Internal live electrical, sealed-system, gas, battery-cell or control-board repair
Match every character and the exact product
ReversiblePhotograph the complete display and product label. This record covers -:-- on Maytag electronic-control dryers. Code availability varies by model and fuel type; a gas and an electric dryer of the same series do not display the same set of codes.
Preserve the failure state
ReversibleCheck whether any cycle still runs at all. Record the operating stage, recent change and what still works before clearing the message.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleIf a cycle is working, reset the controls: power the unit down at the circuit breaker for five minutes, power up, start a time dry cycle and watch for one minute. Do not borrow a reset or meaning from a similar code, product or model year.
Verify once, then respect the service boundary
ReversibleRepeat only the shortest safe action that reaches the original stage. If -:-- returns, stop repeated resets and use model-specific manufacturer support.
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Visible sources support the visible claims. Home Product Support records the publisher, the fact used and the review date; community reports can suggest an issue but do not become a published fact on their own.
Exact questions
Common follow-ups
What does -:-- mean on a Maytag dryer?+
dashes shown in the display instead of a time. Whirlpool, Maytag and Amana all publish this as a control state to power-cycle rather than a component fault, but the documented power-down time differs by brand.
Can I reset -:-- without fixing the cause?+
A reset may hide the display temporarily but does not correct the documented fault. Record the code and complete only the safe checks first.
Why is the complete model number required?+
Manufacturers reuse characters across platforms. The model number determines which official table, controls and service boundary apply.
When should I stop?+
If the dashes return after that reset, stop repeating it and use model-specific manufacturer support.
Answer for the exact device and software version shown above.