Maytag Dishwasher: broken top tray supports

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag dishwasher's upper rack is sagging, not sliding, or falling off the tracks, the issue may stem from broken top tray supports. Common culprits include damaged rack adjusters, worn wheels, or failed end-stop clips. These components are essential for proper functionality, and addressing the problem promptly can prevent further damage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

Maytag top rack adjuster clips and plastic support parts are known to become brittle and break due to heat/detergent exposure

Possible Causes

Broken or worn rack adjuster clips/supports

How to Identify: Top rack drops, tilts, or sits unevenly; rack support clips visibly cracked or missing plastic bits.

Part: Rack adjuster assembly/support clips

Damaged wheel assemblies

How to Identify: Rack is difficult to slide in/out or wobbles significantly; cracked or missing rack wheels on rails.

Part: Top rack roller wheels

Failed endâ€‘stop clips on slide rails

How to Identify: Top rack can slide completely off track; end caps missing or broken at rail ends.

Part: Track end stops/clips

Bent or damaged slide rails

How to Identify: Rack binding or uneven travel; visible bends or dents in side rails.

Part: Rack slide rails/track

DIY Solutions

Replace broken rack adjusters or support clips

Moderate 15â€“30 minutes per side

Tools Needed: flathead screwdriver, pliers

Extend top rack fully and remove from tracks if needed.
Locate broken adjuster/support clips on rack ends.
Pry out the broken clips with a screwdriver.
Install new rack adjuster/support clips until they snap into place.
Reinstall rack and test for proper level and stability.

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off dishwasher power at breaker before working inside.

Replace damaged rack wheels

Moderate 15â€“45 minutes

Tools Needed: flathead screwdriver, replacement wheels

Pull top rack out to accessible position or remove from dishwasher.
Identify broken or worn wheels on rack sides.
Pop out old wheels and press new compatible wheel assemblies onto rack.
Slide rack back and test movement.
Clean and lubricate rail groove if needed.

⚠️ Safety First: Work with rack empty and ensure track is clean to avoid pinch points.

Replace missing or broken endâ€‘stop clips on rails

Moderate 10â€“20 minutes per clip

Tools Needed: flathead screwdriver, replacement end stop clips

Inspect both rail ends for damaged/missing stops.
Pry out remnants carefully.
Insert new endâ€‘stop clips until secure.
Test rack to ensure it cannot slide off tracks.

⚠️ Safety First: Check both sides as asymmetric clips can still allow failure.

Professional Repairs

Replace or realign slide rails or rack tracks

Estimated Cost: $40 â€“ $120

Replace full upper rack assembly

Estimated Cost: $80 â€“ $250+

When to Call a Professional

Rack support points are cracked inside the dishwasher shell

Slide rails are bent or require door removal to access

Multiple components are broken beyond simple parts replacement

Preventive Maintenance

Inspect rack wheels and adjuster clips periodically: Premature failure of rack support components
Frequency: every 3â€“6 months
Clean tracks and remove debris: Binding and extra stress on wheel/rail support
Frequency: monthly
Avoid heavy items on top rack: Stress on plastic support components
Frequency: continuous

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dishwasher broken top tray supports?

Common causes include broken rack adjusters, damaged wheel assemblies, or failed end-stop clips.

How do I fix Maytag Dishwasher broken top tray supports myself?

You can replace broken adjusters, damaged wheels, or end-stop clips by following DIY instructions.

How much does it cost to fix broken top tray supports?

Professional repairs range from $40 to $250+, depending on whether you need repairs or a full assembly replacement.

When should I call a technician for broken top tray supports?

If DIY repairs seem too complex or if multiple components are failing, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Maytag Dishwasher Top Rack Parts & Repair Guide Repair-Blog

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

80%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Wear and tear from regular use
Improper loading of dishes causing excessive weight
Manufacturing defects in the plastic supports

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect the top tray supports for cracks or breaks. If damaged, remove the old supports and replace them with new ones. Ensure they are securely attached before using the dishwasher again.
Adjust the loading technique to distribute weight evenly across the top tray. Avoid overloading the tray with heavy items to prevent future breakage.
Contact Maytag customer service to inquire about potential warranty coverage for manufacturing defects. If applicable, request a replacement of the top tray or supports.