Maytag Washing Machine: not powering on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag washing machine is not powering on, you may notice that the control panel is completely dark and unresponsive. This issue often arises from common causes such as no incoming power, an engaged control lock feature, or a potential main control board failure. Understanding these issues can help you troubleshoot the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Control Lock feature can prevent any response; specific button hold to unlock as per Maytag guides

Possible Causes

No incoming power to washer

How to Identify: Washer has no lights or response; test outlet with another device; breaker may be tripped or GFCI outlet off.

Part: Power supply / household circuit

Control lock feature engaged

How to Identify: Control lock light or symbol on panel is on; buttons do not respond until control lock is disengaged.

Part: Control panel lock

Main control board failure

How to Identify: No power/activity after basic checks and resets; visual signs of damage on board when inspecting inside control panel.

Part: Main electronic control board

DIY Solutions

Verify power and reset breaker

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: none, optional: outlet tester
  1. Unplug washer, test wall outlet with another device or outlet tester.
  2. Check and reset circuit breaker/GFCI controlling washer outlet.
  3. Plug washer back in and attempt to power on.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not bypass grounded outlet or use extension cords.

Disengage control lock

Easy 1 minute
  1. Look for Control Lock symbol on washer display.
  2. Hold the designated Control Lock button for ~3 seconds to unlock.
  3. Attempt to power washer on normally.

Inspect and clean contact pads on control interface

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, rubbing alcohol, cotton swabs
  1. Disconnect washer from power.
  2. Remove control panel cover following model service instructions.
  3. Clean exposed contact pads under interface with rubbing alcohol and cotton swabs.
  4. Allow to dry, reassemble control panel and reconnect power.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before accessing internal components.

Check internal wiring connections

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter
  1. Disconnect washer from power.
  2. Remove top/control console panel.
  3. Inspect wiring harnesses between control panel and control board for loose, pinched, or damaged wires.
  4. Secure or replace damaged wiring and reassemble.
  5. Restore power and test.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before working inside appliance to avoid shock.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Service internal electrical faults

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Control panel remains completely dead after power verification and basic resets
Repeated tripping of breaker when powering washer
Burnt smell or visible electrical damage inside unit
Uncomfortable or unsafe performing internal electrical checks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check and clean control panel contact areas: Corrosion build‑up causing unresponsive interface
    Frequency: annually
  • Verify outlet and breaker condition: Power supply interruptions causing no power symptom
    Frequency: semi‑annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not powering on?
Common causes include no incoming power, engaged control lock, or a failing control board.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not powering on myself?
Try verifying power, resetting the breaker, disengaging the control lock, or cleaning contact pads.
How much does it cost to fix not powering on?
Professional repairs range from $100 to $400, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not powering on?
Call a technician if DIY solutions fail, especially for complex issues like wiring or control board problems.

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: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty power cord or plug
  • Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse
  • Defective control board

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the power cord and plug for any visible damage. Ensure it is securely plugged into the outlet. If damaged, replace the power cord.

  2. Inspect the circuit breaker panel for any tripped breakers or blown fuses. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse as necessary.

  3. Test the control board for any visible signs of damage or burn marks. If defective, replace the control board.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag Bravos XL dead in 5 years

Community Discussions

stopped powering on

Recommended to replace the machine due to high repair costs.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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