Maytag Dryer: not stopping at end of cycle
What is this symptom?
Is your Maytag dryer running continuously and not stopping at the end of its cycle? This issue often arises due to a faulty moisture sensor that fails to detect dryness accurately or a malfunctioning timer/control board. If your dryer requires a manual door open to stop, it's time to troubleshoot and resolve the problem for efficient drying.
Important Tips for Maytag Models
- Maytag-specific troubleshooting resources list airflow and moisture sensing issues as key causes for extended cycles on this brand's dryers.
Possible Causes
Faulty moisture sensor causing incorrect dryness detection
How to Identify: Dryer runs much longer than expected despite clothes appearing dry; automatic cycles not ending.
Part: Moisture sensor/ sensor bars
Timer/control board malfunction preventing end‑of‑cycle signal
How to Identify: Settings panel does not advance properly; dryer never reaches "off" position on cycle timing; display may freeze.
Part: Main control board or mechanical timer
DIY Solutions
Clean lint screen and vent system
- Unplug dryer or turn off power.
- Remove and clean lint screen; vacuum the lint trap.
- Disconnect vent hose from dryer and clean lint and debris through the hose and vent.
- Reattach vent hose securely and run a short empty cycle to verify airflow.
- Check if dryer shuts off at end of cycle.
Clean moisture sensor bars
- Locate moisture sensor bars inside the drum near lint trap.
- Wipe sensor bars with cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove residue.
- Allow to dry and run a test cycle.
- Check if dryer stops when clothes are dry.
Next step
Choose the next step for not stopping at end of cycle
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Dryer Moisture Sensor
Detects moisture in clothing so automatic drying cycles can stop at the selected dryness level.
- Typical part-only price
- $10 - $50
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Timer Control
Advances timed cycles and switches appliance functions in models that use a dedicated timer.
Model-compatible Dryer parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.
Lint Trap Cleaning Brush
A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.
Dryer Vent Hose Kit
A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace moisture sensor or related wiring
Repair or replace control board/timer
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean lint screen after every load: Airflow restriction and extended cycles
Frequency: After every use -
Inspect and clean vent line annually: Clogs that lead to inefficient drying and non‑stop running
Frequency: Yearly
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Maytag Dryer not stopping at end of cycle?
How do I fix Maytag Dryer not stopping at end of cycle myself?
How much does it cost to fix not stopping at end of cycle?
When should I call a technician for not stopping at end of cycle?
References & Sources
- Dryer won't stop running guide Community
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from recognizing when the door is closed.
- Defective timer or control board malfunction that fails to signal the dryer to stop.
- Malfunctioning moisture sensor that incorrectly detects moisture levels, causing the dryer to continue running.
User Suggested Solutions
-
Test and replace the door switch if necessary. Open the dryer door and locate the switch. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, replace the switch.
-
Inspect and test the timer or control board. If the timer is stuck or not functioning, it may need to be replaced. Consult the user manual for specific instructions on accessing these components.
-
Clean the moisture sensor with a soft cloth. If the issue persists, test the sensor for functionality and replace it if necessary.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
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