Maytag Dryer: not running entire cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag Dryer starting a cycle but stopping before it finishes? This common issue can leave clothes damp and may occur unpredictably. Potential causes include restricted airflow, a faulty moisture sensor, or thermostat problems. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective troubleshooting.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag automatic cycles use moisture sensors that can shut cycle early when sensors think clothes are dry; choose correct cycle or clean sensors.

Possible Causes

Overheating due to restricted airflow

How to Identify: Dryer feels very hot outside, longer dry times, restricted airflow at exterior vent, partial loads stopping early

Part: Vent system / lint path

Faulty moisture sensor causing premature cycles

How to Identify: Stops early on automatic cycles but runs normal on timed cycles; clothes still damp; metal sensor bars contaminated with wax

Part: Moisture sensor strips

Thermostat or thermal cut-off triggering shutdown

How to Identify: Dryer overheats then shuts off mid-cycle and sometimes won’t restart until cool; no heat or inconsistent heating

Part: Thermostat / thermal fuse

Motor overheating or failure

How to Identify: Humming noise, smell of overheating, dryer stops then won’t restart until cooled

Part: Drive motor

Control board or timer malfunction

How to Identify: Unpredictable shutdowns, cycle behavior inconsistent across loads, display flickering or errors

Part: Control board / timer

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and ducts

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with hose, lint brush
  1. Remove and clean lint filter
  2. Vacuum lint from lint trap and accessible internal duct
  3. Check exterior vent operation and remove visible lint
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug dryer before accessing ducts

Clean moisture sensor bars

Easy 5-10 minutes
Tools Needed: Rubbing alcohol, soft cloth
  1. Locate moisture sensor strips near lint filter
  2. Wipe them with cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove residue
  3. Run a test load on automatic cycle

Reduce load size and improve airflow

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Remove some items to reduce load size
  2. Ensure proper spacing between clothes in drum
  3. Choose appropriate cycle settings (avoid overloading)

Professional Repairs

Replace thermostat or thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Motor diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

Service control board/timer

Estimated Cost: $100 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Dryer repeatedly shuts off mid-cycle even after airflow cleaning
Unusual noises or burning smells during operation
Motor overheats and won’t restart until cool
Electrical or control panel malfunctions

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Airflow restriction leading to overheating and mid-cycle stops
    Frequency: every load
  • Inspect and clean exterior vent: Vent blockages that trigger safety shutoffs
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dryer not running entire cycle?
Common reasons include overheating due to airflow restrictions, faulty moisture sensors, and thermostat issues.
How do I fix Maytag Dryer not running entire cycle myself?
Try cleaning the lint filter, moisture sensor, and reducing load size to improve airflow.
How much does it cost to fix not running entire cycle?
Professional repairs can range from $40 for a thermostat replacement to $300 for motor issues.
When should I call a technician for not running entire cycle?
If DIY solutions don't work or if the problem involves complex parts like the motor or control board.

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

  • Overheating motor causing the dryer to shut off prematurely
  • Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from completing the cycle
  • Worn or damaged drive belt causing the drum to stop turning

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check for overheating: Unplug the dryer and inspect the motor for signs of overheating. Allow it to cool down and test it again. If it continues to overheat, consider replacing the motor.

  2. Test the door switch: Open the dryer door and press the door switch manually. If the dryer does not run, the switch may need to be replaced.

  3. Inspect the drive belt: Disconnect the dryer from power, remove the front panel, and check the drive belt for wear or damage. Replace if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag Dryer Running and Shutting Off

Community Discussions

Running and shutting off

Possible motor issue causing overheating and shutting off.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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