Maytag Washing Machine: burning smell, leaking, not spinning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a burning smell, leaking, and ineffective spinning with your Maytag washing machine? These symptoms can indicate serious issues like a worn drive belt, blocked drain pump, or damaged hoses. Addressing these problems promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your laundry gets cleaned effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag front-load washers often leak due to door gasket/clogged dispenser issues.

Possible Causes

Worn or slipping drive belt

How to Identify: Burning rubber smell during spin/agitate, visible belt wear/cracks, machine fails to spin.

Part: Drive belt / motor belt

Drain pump blockage or failure

How to Identify: Water leakage, burning smell during draining, standing water at cycle end, failure to spin due to incomplete drain.

Part: Drain pump

Faulty motor / overheating motor

How to Identify: Burning smell with humming/buzzing noise, spin cycle fails, machine may stop mid-cycle.

Part: Motor / motor windings

Leaking inlet or drain hoses

How to Identify: Water pooling near rear or underneath, visible hose cracks, damp floor after cycles.

Part: Hoses (inlet/drain)

Damaged tub seal / door gasket (front-load)

How to Identify: Water leaking around door or under front-loader, visible seal wear, potential odor if mold present.

Part: Tub seal / door gasket

Control board or electrical issue

How to Identify: Burn marks on board, erratic operation, burning electrical smell rather than rubber smell.

Part: Control board / wiring harness

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, wrench set, replacement belt
  1. Unplug machine and disconnect power.
  2. Remove back or access panel to locate drive belt.
  3. Inspect belt for wear, fraying or cracks.
  4. Remove worn belt and install a new one following manufacturer diagrams.
  5. Reassemble and test washer.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before accessing internal parts.

Clear Drain Pump Blockages

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket/towels
  1. Unplug washer and turn off water supply.
  2. Remove lower access panel and locate drain pump.
  3. Inspect pump inlet and hoses for lint, debris or obstructions.
  4. Clear blockages and ensure impeller spins freely.
  5. Reassemble and test.
⚠️ Safety First: Water may spill; place towels/bucket to catch it.

Tighten or Replace Hoses

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: pliers
  1. Unplug and pull washer away from wall.
  2. Check water inlet and drain hoses for cracks or loose clamps.
  3. Tighten hose clamps or replace damaged hoses.
  4. Return washer to place and test for leaks.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply before disconnecting hoses.

Inspect Front-Load Door Gasket

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: clean cloth, mild cleaner
  1. Open door and inspect gasket for debris, mold or tears.
  2. Clean folds with cloth and mild cleaner.
  3. Remove trapped objects if present.
  4. Test door seal for proper closure.
⚠️ Safety First: Avoid harsh chemicals on rubber gasket.

Professional Repairs

Replace Motor or Motor Control Board

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500

Replace Tub Seal / Bearings

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Burning electrical smell or visible burn marks on control board
Motor humming without spinning after belt replacement
Leaks originating inside drum or requiring disassembly beyond hoses/pump
Persistent no-spin after clearing drain blockages

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean gasket and drum: Leak and odor issues
    Frequency: Monthly
  • Inspect belts and hoses: Burning smell and leak causes
    Frequency: Annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine burning smell, leaking, not spinning?
Common causes include a worn drive belt, blocked drain pump, leaking hoses, or a faulty motor.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine burning smell, leaking, not spinning myself?
Inspect and replace the drive belt, clear the drain pump, or tighten/replacing hoses.
How much does it cost to fix burning smell, leaking, not spinning?
Professional repairs for motor or tub seal can range from $150 to $500.
When should I call a technician for burning smell, leaking, not spinning?
Call a technician if DIY repairs are too complex or if issues persist after troubleshooting.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged bearings causing friction and overheating
  • Clogged drain pump leading to leaks and preventing spinning
  • Faulty lid switch preventing the machine from spinning and causing buzzing sound

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace worn bearings. Disassemble the washer, remove the drum, and replace the bearings with new ones. Reassemble and test the machine.

  2. Check and clear the drain pump. Remove any debris or clogs from the pump and hoses to ensure proper drainage.

  3. Test and replace the lid switch if faulty. Access the lid switch, test for continuity, and replace if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag Bravos XL MCT Burning smell and water leaking

Community Discussions

burning smell, water leaking, buzzing sound, lid won't open

The issue is likely due to bad bearings, which can be repaired for $300-$400.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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