Maytag Refrigerator: not making ice

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag refrigerator not making ice? This issue often arises from water supply problems, a faulty ice maker assembly, or a clogged water filter. Despite being powered on and connected, no new ice is being formed or dispensed. Understanding these common causes can help you resolve the issue quickly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag ice maker modules often require reset via a reset button or power cycle; turning ice maker on/off and checking ice maker arm position is recommended in official troubleshooting.
  • Some Maytag models include an ice level control board that can shut off ice production when it misdetects ice bucket level.

Possible Causes

Water supply issues (no/low water flow)

How to Identify: Check if the water filter is clogged, water line is kinked/frozen, or household water pressure is too low. Reduced water flow at dispenser often correlates with no ice production.

Part: Water inlet valve and water line

Ice maker turned off or not reset

How to Identify: Ice maker shut-off arm or switch may be in the “off” position; models may have a reset button needing a press-and-hold or power cycle.

Part: Ice maker control switch/assembly

Faulty ice maker assembly

How to Identify: No response from ice maker during test cycle; visible damage or no motor activity; old units may show wear.

Part: Ice maker assembly/motor

Faulty water inlet valve

How to Identify: No water entering ice tray when filling should occur; valve fails continuity or doesn’t open with proper pressure.

Part: Water inlet valve

Clogged or old water filter

How to Identify: Filter past recommended service interval (~6 months showing reduced water flow; replacing improves water delivery.

Part: Water filter

DIY Solutions

Check/Replace Water Filter

Easy 10-15 minutes
  1. Locate the water filter (inside fridge compartment) and remove it.
  2. Replace with a new compatible filter, then flush the water dispenser for a few minutes to clear air/old water.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure water line is not under pressure when removing filter to avoid drips.

Inspect Water Line and Supply

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Pull fridge from wall and inspect water line for kinks or pinches.
  2. Straighten any kinks and check that the shutoff valve supplying water to fridge is fully open.
  3. If line is frozen, gently warm it with ambient air; do not use open flame or high heat devices.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid using high heat sources that can damage the line.

Reset Ice Maker and Power Cycle

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Locate ice maker reset button and press/hold as per manual instructions (or consult user manual).
  2. If no reset, unplug refrigerator for 1 minute then replug and allow 12–24 hours for ice production to resume.

Adjust Freezer Temperature

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Check freezer thermostat/display and set temperature to recommended 0°F.
  2. Ensure there are no air blockages at vents inside the freezer that restrict cold air circulation.

Professional Repairs

Replace Ice Maker Assembly

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace Water Inlet Valve

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Repair/Replace Main Control Board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Ice maker assembly shows no response during diagnostic testing after basic checks
Water inlet valve or control board diagnostics indicate electrical failure
Persistent leaks or repeated ice maker freezing with no apparent supply issue

Preventive Maintenance

  • Replace water filter: Water flow restriction and ice production problems
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Check water line for kinks and secure connections: Water supply interruptions to ice maker
    Frequency: annually
  • Clean ice bin and mold: Ice jams and odor issues
    Frequency: every 3-6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Refrigerator not making ice?
Common causes include water supply issues, a faulty ice maker, or a clogged water filter.
How do I fix Maytag Refrigerator not making ice myself?
Check/replace the water filter, inspect the water line, reset the ice maker, or adjust the freezer temperature.
How much does it cost to fix not making ice?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $400, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not making ice?
If DIY solutions fail or if issues persist after troubleshooting, it's time to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

67%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Water supply issues (3 mentions)
  • Ice maker malfunction (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Repair broken wires using butt splices and heat shrink tubing.

    Success rate: 20.0%

  2. Replace the ice maker.

    Success rate: 20.0%
Analysis based on 5 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag refrigerator mbr2258xes3 stopped making ice after wat...
  2. Maytag refrigerator mbr2258xes3 isn’t making ice since I had...
  3. Maytag French Door Refrigerator Ice Maker Stopped Working
  4. Maytag ice maker not working
  5. I really want to fix it, but....

Community Discussions

ice maker not working

Replacing the ice maker will solve the problem.

DIY View on Reddit →

ice tray not filling

Repair the broken wires using butt splices and heat shrink tubing.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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