Maytag Washing Machine: broken agitator

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your Maytag washing machine's agitator? If it's not moving, spinning freely, or not agitating clothes properly, worn agitator dogs or a faulty drive block could be the culprits. Addressing this problem promptly ensures your laundry is cleaned effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag top‑load washers commonly use agitator dogs and drive block/spline linkage that wear over time; these are frequently replaced parts for agitation issues.

Possible Causes

Worn or broken agitator dogs / internal cam components

How to Identify: Agitator spins freely by hand without resistance one way or both ways and does not impart normal back‑and‑forth motion during wash; visible wear when agitator is removed. (HomeGearGeek

Part: Agitator dogs / cam inside agitator

Drive block or spline assembly worn/stripped

How to Identify: Agitator does not engage even though transmission spins; backlash or clicking between agitator and shaft. (HomeGearGeek

Part: Drive block / splines connecting agitator to transmission

Broken or worn drive belt

How to Identify: Motor sounds but agitator doesn’t move; visible belt damage or slippage when inspected. (HomeGearGeek

Part: Drive belt

Motor coupling failure

How to Identify: Motor runs but agitator doesn’t move and belt appears intact; coupling plastic/rubber piece shows breakage. (HomeGearGeek

Part: Motor coupling between motor and transmission

Faulty lid switch or control logic preventing agitation

How to Identify: Washer won’t enter agitation even though other components appear intact; test lid switch continuity.

Part: Lid switch / control board

Transmission internal failure (major mechanical failure)

How to Identify: Neither agitator nor spin works; grinding noises or locked output shaft under inspection.

Part: Transmission assembly

DIY Solutions

Replace agitator dogs (common internal wear)

Moderate 45-90 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, socket set, pliers
  1. Unplug the washer and disconnect power.
  2. Remove the agitator cap and central bolt.
  3. Pull the agitator up and off the shaft.
  4. Inspect and remove worn agitator dogs inside the agitator.
  5. Install new agitator dogs in the correct orientation.
  6. Reinstall the agitator, bolt, and cap; test agitation.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before servicing.

Inspect and replace drive belt

Moderate 60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, wrench, belt replacement
  1. Unplug the washer and access the rear panel.
  2. Locate and inspect the drive belt for cracks or wear.
  3. Remove the old belt from pulleys.
  4. Install a correct replacement belt on motor and transmission pulleys.
  5. Reassemble panels and test the machine.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct belt tension upon installation.

Replace motor coupling

Advanced 90-120 minutes
Tools Needed: socket set, wrench, replacement coupling
  1. Disconnect power and tilt the washer back for access.
  2. Remove motor cover and locate the coupling.
  3. Remove broken coupling pieces from motor and transmission shafts.
  4. Install the new coupling aligning shafts properly.
  5. Reassemble and test the washer.
⚠️ Safety First: Proper alignment is critical to avoid damage.

Professional Repairs

Replace agitator assembly or worn drive block/splines

Estimated Cost: $75 - $250

Transmission replacement or major drive system repair

Estimated Cost: $200 - $700+

When to Call a Professional

Agitator still does not move after replacing dogs and belts.
Internal transmission failure suspected (grinding, no movement of transmission shaft).
Unusual electrical symptoms or control board issues.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Inspect agitator dogs and belt annually: Early wear that leads to agitation failure
    Frequency: annually
  • Avoid overloading the washer: Excess strain on drive components
    Frequency: with every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine broken agitator?
Common causes include worn agitator dogs, a stripped drive block, or a broken drive belt.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine broken agitator myself?
You can replace agitator dogs, inspect the drive belt, or replace the motor coupling depending on your model.
How much does it cost to fix broken agitator?
Professional repair costs range from $75 to $250 for minor fixes, and $200 to $700+ for major repairs.
When should I call a technician for broken agitator?
If DIY solutions are too complex or if you're facing major mechanical failures, it's time to call a professional.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Rust or corrosion on the agitator bolt
  • Worn out or damaged agitator dogs (clutch mechanism)
  • Loose or broken agitator assembly

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Apply penetrating oil (like WD40) to the rusted bolt, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then use an impact wrench or heat gun to loosen the bolt. If unsuccessful, consider using a universal socket or breaking the agitator as a last resort.

  2. Inspect and replace the agitator dogs if they are worn out. Remove the agitator by unscrewing the bolt and pulling it off. Replace the dogs and reassemble the agitator.

  3. Check for loose parts in the agitator assembly. Tighten any loose screws or replace broken components. Reassemble and test the agitator's functionality.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Old Maytag washer has rusted bolt, any way of repairing?

Community Discussions

broken agitator, rusted bolt

Use WD40, heat gun, impact wrench, or universal socket to remove rusted bolt; consider breaking the agitator as a last resort.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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