Maytag Washing Machine: loud grinding noise
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.
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
- Turn off and unplug the washer.
- Check inside the drum for loose items and remove them.
- Locate and open the drain pump filter and remove debris/grit.
- Run a short spin cycle empty to confirm noise reduction.
Redistribute Load and Re‑level Washer
- Stop the washer mid‑cycle and redistribute clothes evenly.
- Check that the washer is level on the floor and adjust feet as needed.
- Restart the cycle and observe noise changes.
Inspect Drive Belt and Pulley
- Unplug washer and remove back panel.
- Inspect drive belt for wear and pulleys for alignment.
- Replace worn belt and realign pulleys.
- Reassemble and test the washer.
Next step
Choose the next step for loud grinding noise
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drain Pump
Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.
- Typical part-only price
- $35 - $80
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Estimated time
- 15-30 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Drive Belt
Transfers rotational power from the motor to turn the drum or tub.
Washer Suspension Rod Kit
Supports and stabilizes the washer tub during agitation and spin.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
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Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace Tub Bearings and Seals
Service Suspension System or Internal Loose Parts
When to Call a Professional
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?
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine loud grinding noise myself?
How much does it cost to fix loud grinding noise?
When should I call a technician for loud grinding noise?
References & Sources
- Maytag Grinding or Rubbing Noise Official
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
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.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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