Maytag Dryer: not turning off
What is this symptom?
Is your Maytag Dryer not turning off after the cycle ends? This issue may cause your dryer to continue running even when clothes are dry. Common causes include a faulty electronic control board, a stuck start/stop switch, or a malfunctioning door switch. Understanding these issues can help you troubleshoot effectively.
Important Tips for Maytag Models
- Maytag dryers may have specific electronic control boards and thermistors that regulate cycle termination; failure often requires model-specific parts
Possible Causes
Faulty electronic control board (may fail to open relay to cut power)
How to Identify: Dryer continues to run indefinitely even after clothes are dry; control inputs unresponsive
Part: Electronic control board
Stuck or faulty start/stop switch or timer contacts (mechanical models)
How to Identify: Start button feels stuck; timer contacts fused or worn causing failure to interrupt power
Part: Start button/switch or mechanical timer
Faulty door switch (safety circuit failure)
How to Identify: Dryer runs even when door is opened or won’t sense door state correctly
Part: Door switch
DIY Solutions
Disconnect power and reset dryer
- Unplug dryer from outlet or turn off circuit breaker
- Wait 1–5 minutes to allow internal electronics to reset
- Reconnect power and run a short cycle to see if issue persists
Inspect and test start button or switch
- Unplug dryer from power
- Remove control panel to access start switch
- Visually inspect start button for sticking or damage
- Use multimeter to test switch continuity
- Replace switch if it fails continuity test
Next step
Choose the next step for not turning off
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
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
- Typical part-only price
- $120 - $280
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 20-40 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.
Timer Control
Advances timed cycles and switches appliance functions in models that use a dedicated timer.
Door or Lid Switch
Detects whether the appliance door or lid is safely closed before operation.
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.
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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
Control board inspection and replacement
Thermostat/sensor replacement
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Annual vent and lint system cleaning: Overheating and potential sensor errors that can affect cycle control
Frequency: annually -
Regularly test start and control buttons: Stuck switches causing unintended continuous operation
Frequency: every 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Maytag Dryer not turning off?
How do I fix Maytag Dryer not turning off myself?
How much does it cost to fix not turning off?
When should I call a technician for not turning off?
References & Sources
- Why Your Maytag Dryer Won’t Turn Off Repair-Blog
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 timer or control board causing the dryer to remain in an active state
- Stuck or malfunctioning door switch preventing the dryer from recognizing when the door is open
- Defective moisture sensor that fails to signal the dryer to stop when clothes are dry
User Suggested Solutions
-
Inspect and replace the timer or control board. Unplug the dryer, remove the back panel, and check for any visible damage. If necessary, replace the timer/control board with a new one.
-
Check the door switch for proper function. Open the dryer door and press the switch to see if it clicks. If it doesn't, replace the door switch.
-
Test the moisture sensor by checking for any buildup of lint or debris. Clean the sensor with a soft cloth. If it still doesn't work, consider replacing the moisture sensor.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
dryer won't turn off
The timer is likely the issue, possibly due to a burnt-out element affecting the circuit.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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