Maytag Washing Machine: loud grinding noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a loud grinding noise from your Maytag washing machine? This unsettling metal-on-metal sound may occur during agitation, spinning, or draining cycles. It's often indicative of underlying issues, such as foreign objects trapped in the drum, worn tub bearings, or problems with the drive belt. Addressing this promptly is essential to prevent further damage and ensure your machine operates smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag documentation notes that some gear/mo‑ tion noises are normal but grinding/scraping is abnormal and likely indicates a problem. (Product Help | Maytag

Possible Causes

Foreign objects trapped in drum or pump

How to Identify: Check inside drum and drain pump filter for coins, screws, small metal objects; noise often shifts or changes when drum is manually rotated. (Product Help | Maytag(The Home Reviews

Part: Drum interior, drain pump

Worn or damaged tub bearings

How to Identify: Rough resistance and grinding when spinning drum by hand, drum may feel loose or sag; noise often louder at high spin speeds. (Product Help | Maytag

Part: Tub bearings

Drive belt or pulley issues

How to Identify: Inspect belt for fraying/cracks and pulley for wobble; noise may occur during spin or changing cycles. (Product Help | Maytag(The Home Reviews

Part: Drive belt, drive pulley

Unbalanced or overloaded load

How to Identify: Noise present with uneven or too heavy load; redistributing clothes often reduces sound. (Product Help | Maytag

Part: Load distribution

Faulty suspension/shocks or loose internal parts

How to Identify: Excessive drum bounce, popping or knocking along with grinding; significant vibration. (Product Help | Maytag

Part: Suspension rods/shocks

DIY Solutions

Remove Foreign Objects from Drum and Pump

Moderate 15–45 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, flashlight, pliers
  1. Turn off and unplug the washer.
  2. Check inside the drum for loose items and remove them.
  3. Locate and open the drain pump filter and remove debris/grit.
  4. Run a short spin cycle empty to confirm noise reduction.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before accessing internal components.

Redistribute Load and Re‑level Washer

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: level
  1. Stop the washer mid‑cycle and redistribute clothes evenly.
  2. Check that the washer is level on the floor and adjust feet as needed.
  3. Restart the cycle and observe noise changes.

Inspect Drive Belt and Pulley

Advanced 45–90 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, wrenches, flashlight
  1. Unplug washer and remove back panel.
  2. Inspect drive belt for wear and pulleys for alignment.
  3. Replace worn belt and realign pulleys.
  4. Reassemble and test the washer.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before access.

Professional Repairs

Replace Tub Bearings and Seals

Estimated Cost: $150–$300

Service Suspension System or Internal Loose Parts

Estimated Cost: $120–$220

When to Call a Professional

Grinding noise continues after DIY checks for debris and load balance
Drum bearings seem worn (rough spin by hand)
Internal components (suspension, bearings) need disassembly

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check pockets and remove small objects before wash: Noise from foreign objects
    Frequency: every load
  • Level the washer: Unbalanced load noise
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine loud grinding noise?
Common causes include foreign objects in the drum, worn tub bearings, or drive belt issues.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine loud grinding noise myself?
Try removing foreign objects, redistributing the load, or inspecting the drive belt and pulleys.
How much does it cost to fix loud grinding noise?
Professional repairs for tub bearings range from $150–$300; suspension system repairs cost about $120–$220.
When should I call a technician for loud grinding noise?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if the problem persists, it's best to consult a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged drive belt causing slippage and noise
  • Foreign object caught in the drum or pump
  • Worn bearings in the drum assembly leading to grinding sounds

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the drive belt for wear and replace if necessary. To do this, unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and check the belt for fraying or damage. If damaged, replace it with a new belt.

  2. Check for foreign objects in the drum or drain pump. Remove the front panel, inspect the drum, and check the drain pump for blockages. Remove any debris found.

  3. Inspect and replace worn bearings. This involves disassembling the drum assembly, which can be complex. If bearings are worn, replace them with new ones, ensuring proper installation.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag washing machine making a loud grinding noise when att...

Community Discussions

loud grinding noise when attempting agitate or spin cycle

Check the drain pump for issues, particularly the pulley rubbing against the stationary part.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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