Maytag Washing Machine: burning smell

Possible Causes

Worn or slipping drive/pump belt causing friction and overheating

How to Identify: Smell of burning rubber, reduced spin/agitation, visual inspection shows frayed/cracked belt

Part: Drive belt / Pump belt

Overheating or failing drive motor

How to Identify: Acrid/electrical burning scent, humming or buzzing noises, smell especially during agitation/spin

Part: Drive motor

Electrical component failure (control board/ motor control board / wiring short)

How to Identify: Burnt electrical smell, visible burn marks on boards, intermittent operation or error codes

Part: Control board / Motor control board / Wiring harness

Seized drain pump or pulley causing friction

How to Identify: Burning smell during draining, pump not operating smoothly, obstruction detected

Part: Drain pump or idler pulley

DIY Solutions

Inspect and replace worn belts

Moderate 30-90 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, socket set, replacement belt

1. Disconnect power to washer
2. Access back or bottom panel to locate belts
3. Visually inspect drive and pump belts for wear or damage
4. Remove old belt and install correct replacement belt per model instructions

⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug washer before internal access

Check and clear drain pump obstruction

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, flashlight

1. Unplug appliance and access pump area
2. Inspect pump and hoses for debris or foreign objects
3. Remove obstructions and reassemble

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power, handle pump components carefully

Professional Repairs

Replace drive motor

Estimated Cost: $200 - $450

Replace control board or motor control board

Estimated Cost: $250 - $600

Replace drain pump or idler pulley

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Burning electrical smell (not rubber)

Visible smoke, sparks, or melted plastic components

Persistent smell after belt/pump checks

Motor overheating signs (humming, failure to spin)

Preventive Maintenance

• Regularly inspect belts and pulleys: Friction-related burns and smells
  Frequency: annually
• Avoid overloading washer: Motor overload and excessive strain on belts/pulleys
  Frequency: Every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine burning smell?

Common causes include worn or slipping drive belts, overheating motor, or electrical component failure.

How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine burning smell myself?

Inspect and replace worn belts or check for drain pump obstructions.

How much does it cost to fix burning smell?

Professional repairs range from $100 to $600, depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for burning smell?

If the burning smell persists after DIY checks, it's urgent to call a technician.

References & Sources

• How To Fix Maytag Washer With A Burning Smell - Fuseami Repair-Blog

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Overloading the washing machine (1 mentions)
• Tight belts or motor plate movement issues (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Using smaller loads resolved the odor issue

   Success rate: 50.0%

2. Check motor plate movement, ensure belts are not too tight, and inspect brake assembly

   Success rate: 50.0%

Community Discussions

burning smell during spin cycle

Using smaller loads resolved the odor issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

burning smell during spin cycle

Check motor plate movement, ensure belts are not too tight, and inspect brake assembly.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair