Maytag Dishwasher: not stable

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag dishwasher shaking or vibrating excessively during use? This instability can cause noise and movement against cabinets or the floor, indicating potential issues. Common causes include improper leveling, loose internal components, or rare motor bearing wear. Addressing these concerns can restore stability and efficiency to your appliance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

Maytag official guidance emphasizes correct leveling as essential for performance and avoiding vibration.

Possible Causes

Dishwasher not properly leveled

How to Identify: Visual rocking when open/closed, uses a level tool front-to-back and side-to-side

Part: Leveling legs / unit installation

Loose internal components or racks

How to Identify: Rattling noises, parts visibly loose when inspecting interior

Part: Spray arms / racks / screws

Worn motor bearings or pump issues

How to Identify: Persistent vibration with humming noise and load balanced, even after leveling

Part: Motor / pump assembly

DIY Solutions

Level the Dishwasher

Moderate 20-40 minutes

Tools Needed: bubble level, wrench or socket set

Disconnect power.
Place level on top edge front-to-back and side-to-side.
Adjust front and rear leveling legs until unit is level.
Slide unit back and check stability; recheck level.
Reconnect power and test operation.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before working beneath appliance.

Secure Mounting Brackets

Easy 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver

Open dishwasher door and locate side/top mounting brackets.
Tighten screws securing dishwasher to cabinets or countertop.
Check that unit no longer shifts during cycles.

Redistribute Dish Load

Easy 5 minutes

Unload dishwasher.
Reorganize dishes evenly, balancing weight left-to-right and front-to-back.
Run a cycle to check for reduced vibration.

Professional Repairs

Inspect and Replace Worn Motor/Pump Bearings

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Professional Mounting Adjustment/Installation Fix

Estimated Cost: $80 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Persistent vibration after proper leveling and load placement

Unusual noises such as grinding or humming pointing to motor/pump wear

Visible damage to mounting or dishwasher frame

Preventive Maintenance

Check and re-level dishwasher annually: Instability and vibration issues
Frequency: annually
Inspect mounting brackets periodically: Unit loosening and excessive movement
Frequency: bi-annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dishwasher not stable?

Common causes include improper leveling, loose internal components, or rare motor bearing issues.

How do I fix Maytag Dishwasher not stable myself?

You can level the dishwasher, secure mounting brackets, or redistribute the dish load.

How much does it cost to fix not stable?

Professional repairs range from $80 to $400, depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not stable?

Call a technician if DIY fixes don't stabilize your dishwasher or if motor/pump issues are suspected.

References & Sources

How to Level a Dishwasher for Peak Performance | Maytag Official

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

Worn or damaged lower rack tines causing instability for larger plates
Improper loading technique leading to imbalance
Faulty or misaligned dishwasher door hinges affecting stability

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect the lower rack tines for wear or damage. Replace any broken tines to ensure plates can be held securely.
Review and adjust loading techniques. Ensure larger plates are placed in the correct positions and not leaning against each other.
Check the door hinges for proper alignment and functionality. Adjust or replace hinges if they are faulty.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Looking for a Maytag-compatible dishwasher lower rack that m...

Community Discussions

larger dinner plates do not stay upright

Consider using a lower rack from a Whirlpool dishwasher or a KitchenAid model with angled tines.