Maytag Dishwasher: not advancing through cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag dishwasher is not advancing through its cycle, you may notice it pausing or stopping mid-wash. This can lead to repeated filling and draining, requiring you to intervene to resume the cycle. Several issues, including a faulty door latch, control board malfunction, or clogs in the water inlet valve, could be to blame.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag models pause cycles if door is unlatched, power interruptions occur, or delay start/Control Lock are active; use Start/Resume within 3 seconds to continue. (producthelp.

Possible Causes

Door isn’t latched or door switch failure

How to Identify: Dishwasher stops mid-cycle without completing wash; opening and closing door may temporarily allow operation; door doesn’t securely latch.

Part: Door latch and door switch

Control board or touchpad/controls malfunction

How to Identify: Dishwasher stops inconsistently; control buttons unresponsive; incorrect or no lights; cycle pauses without water issues.

Part: Main control board, user control board, touchpad

Water inlet valve not functioning or clogged

How to Identify: Dishwasher stops after draining because it can’t refill with water; no water entering tub; long pauses before stopping.

Part: Water inlet valve

Power interruption or control lock/pause state

How to Identify: Dishwasher pauses mid-cycle with Start/Resume light flashing; reset required; cycle paused when door unlatched or power lost. (producthelp.

Part: House circuit breaker, dishwasher control lock

Drain or float/ leak detection sensor triggers

How to Identify: Dishwasher fills then immediately drains; presence of water in drip tray/float triggering protection.

Part: Float switch, drain system sensors

DIY Solutions

Check door latch and resume cycle

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Open and firmly close the dishwasher door until it latches.
  2. If Start/Resume indicator is flashing, press Start/Resume within 3 seconds to continue cycle.
  3. Verify latch engages smoothly with no visible damage.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hands clear of door edges when closing.

Reset dishwasher controls (cycle power)

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Cancel current cycle (if active) via control panel.
  2. Disconnect power at plug or circuit breaker for at least 1 minute.
  3. Restore power, close door, select cycle, and press Start.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before handling plug or circuit breaker.

Inspect and clean water inlet area

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, bucket, towels
  1. Turn off water supply and power.
  2. Remove lower access panel.
  3. Inspect water inlet valve for clogs/debris.
  4. Reattach and test refill behavior.
⚠️ Safety First: Shut off water before servicing.

Professional Repairs

Replace door latch or door switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $30 - $120

Replace control board or control panel

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Inspect and repair electrical supply or wiring faults

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher stops mid-cycle repeatedly after DIY checks
Visible damage to latch, wiring, or control components
Dishwasher shows error codes not resolved by reset

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly clean filter and drain areas: Clogs that can disrupt water flow and cycle progression
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect and ensure door latch integrity: Interruption caused by unlatched door
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dishwasher not advancing through cycle?
Common causes include a door latch failure, control board malfunction, or issues with the water inlet valve.
How do I fix Maytag Dishwasher not advancing through cycle myself?
Check the door latch, reset the controls, or inspect the water inlet for clogs.
How much does it cost to fix not advancing through cycle?
Professional repairs can range from $30 for a door latch to $400 for a control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not advancing through cycle?
If DIY solutions fail or if you're uncomfortable with electrical repairs, it's best to contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty timer or control board malfunction
  • Blocked or malfunctioning door latch
  • Defective water inlet valve preventing proper fill

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and test the timer or control board for faults. If necessary, replace the faulty component. Ensure power is disconnected before working on the unit.

  2. Check the door latch for any obstructions or damage. Ensure it closes properly and replace it if defective.

  3. Inspect the water inlet valve for clogs or defects. Clean or replace the valve if necessary to ensure proper water flow.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Maytag dishwasher DWU7400 won't advance.

Community Discussions

won't advance through the cycle

The issue is likely related to the timer, which may be malfunctioning.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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