Maytag Washing Machine: not agitating, not spinning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Maytag washing machine not agitating or spinning? This common issue can leave your clothes soaked and the drum unresponsive during cycles. Several factors may contribute, including a worn drive belt, a faulty lid switch, or issues with the transmission. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag top-load washers commonly use agitator dogs that wear and stop proper agitation.

Possible Causes

Drive belt worn, loose, or broken

How to Identify: Check belt for wear or breakage; if the motor spins but drum doesn’t, belt may be slipping or broken.

Part: Drive belt

Lid or door switch failure

How to Identify: Washer doesn’t start agitation/spin when lid is closed; continuity test fails on switch.

Part: Lid switch

Faulty transmission or gearcase

How to Identify: Motor runs but neither agitation nor spinning occur; noise or lack of resistance indicates internal gearbox issue.

Part: Transmission/gearcase

Control board or timer malfunction

How to Identify: Electrical components not sending power to drive system; testing shows no voltage output.

Part: Control board

DIY Solutions

Check and Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, socket set, replacement belt
  1. Unplug washer and lean it back to access rear panel.
  2. Remove service panel to expose drive belt.
  3. Inspect belt for damage or looseness.
  4. Remove old belt and install new one ensuring correct tension.
  5. Reinstall panel and test washer.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working inside machine.

Replace Agitator Dogs

Moderate 45–90 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, pliers, replacement agitator dog kit
  1. Unplug washer.
  2. Remove agitator cap and bolt.
  3. Pull agitator and access agitator dogs.
  4. Replace worn dogs with new set.
  5. Reassemble agitator and test.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected.

Test and Replace Lid Switch

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver, replacement lid switch
  1. Unplug washer.
  2. Remove control panel to access lid switch.
  3. Test switch with multimeter for continuity.
  4. Replace if defective and reassemble.
  5. Test washer operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before testing electrical parts.

Professional Repairs

Transmission or Gearcase Replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Control Board Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Unusual noises indicating internal damage
Repeated failure after DIY fixes
Electrical component faults like control board or transmission issues

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect and clean agitator area: Build-up and early wear of agitator dogs
    Frequency: monthly
  • Avoid overloading washer: Excess strain on drive belt and motor coupling
    Frequency: every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not agitating, not spinning?
Common causes include a worn or broken drive belt, lid switch failure, or faulty transmission.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not agitating, not spinning myself?
Check and replace the drive belt, replace agitator dogs, or test the lid switch for continuity.
How much does it cost to fix not agitating, not spinning?
Professional repairs can cost between $200 - $500+ for transmission or gearcase replacement.
When should I call a technician for not agitating, not spinning?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions are unsuccessful or if complex repairs are needed.

References & Sources

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

  • Faulty lid switch preventing the machine from agitating and spinning
  • Worn or damaged drive belt that connects the motor to the drum
  • Malfunctioning motor coupling that connects the motor to the transmission

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the lid switch. Open the lid and press the switch manually to see if it engages. If not, replace it.

  2. Inspect the drive belt for wear or damage. If it is frayed or broken, replace it with a new belt.

  3. Examine the motor coupling for signs of wear or damage. If it’s broken, replace it by removing the motor and installing a new coupling.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag MVWP575GW "Commercial Grade" Washer - a cautionary ta...

Community Discussions

stops agitating, no more spin cycle

Ordered and installed a part to fix agitation issue; currently troubleshooting a bearing issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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