Maytag Dryer: not stopping

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag dryer not stopping after completing the cycle? This common issue may be caused by a faulty cycling thermostat, door switch, or even a malfunctioning control board. Restricted airflow can also affect sensor control, preventing the dryer from completing its timed or auto-dry cycle. Follow our guide to troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

Maytag models use automatic moisture sensing cycles; faulty sensors/control logic may cause extended runs.

Possible Causes

Faulty cycling thermostat

How to Identify: Dryer runs continuously past expected cycle time; thermostat fails to regulate run duration.

Part: Cycling thermostat

Faulty door switch

How to Identify: Dryer does not stop when door opened or shows inconsistent run behavior relative to door closure.

Part: Door switch

Control board or timer malfunction

How to Identify: No change in behavior across cycles; no progression to cycle end even with correct settings.

Part: Main control board/timer

Restricted airflow affecting sensor control

How to Identify: Dryer runs long or continuously; observed airflow blockages or heavy lint buildup.

Part: Vent system / lint filter

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and venting

Easy 15â€“30 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum, lint brush

Remove and clean the lint filter.
Inspect and clean the exhaust vent to the outside.
Vacuum lint from accessible areas and ensure airflow is unrestricted.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is unplugged when accessing vent connections.

Test and replace door switch

Moderate 30â€“60 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter

Unplug dryer and open access panel.
Locate the door switch and remove it.
Test for continuity with a multimeter.
Replace door switch if it fails continuity test.

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug unit before internal access.

Professional Repairs

Replace cycling thermostat

Estimated Cost: $40â€“$120

Control board/timer replacement

Estimated Cost: $150â€“$350

When to Call a Professional

Dryer continues running despite replacing thermostat/door switch

Evidence of electrical/control board fault

Uncertain diagnosis after DIY checks

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint filter: Airflow restriction that can affect sensor/cycle control
Frequency: after every load
Annual vent inspection: Blockage that can contribute to improper dryer operation
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Dryer not stopping?

Common causes include a faulty cycling thermostat, door switch issues, or control board malfunctions.

How do I fix Maytag Dryer not stopping myself?

Start by cleaning the lint filter and venting. If the issue persists, test and replace the door switch.

How much does it cost to fix not stopping?

Replacing the cycling thermostat costs $40â€“$120, while control board or timer replacements range from $150â€“$350.

When should I call a technician for not stopping?

If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if you're uncomfortable with electrical components, call a technician.

References & Sources

How to repair a dryer that won't stop running Community

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty timer (2 mentions)
Broken sensor/thermostat (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

Replace the thermostat

Success rate: 50.0%
Replace the timer

Success rate: 50.0%

Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

Community Discussions

dryer won't stop the dry cycle; timer keeps turning

Compatible part found: WP33001730

DIY View on Reddit →

sensor that indicates when it’s done is broken and there’s no timed mode so it runs forever until I manually stop it