Maytag Washing Machine: not starting cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag washing machine powers on but won't start the wash cycle, you're not alone. Symptoms may include no movement, no filling, and no agitation despite selecting a wash program and pressing the Start button. This issue can stem from a faulty door switch, incorrect control settings, or a blown fuse. Understanding these potential causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag washers often require holding the Start button for ~3 seconds to engage cycle.

Possible Causes

Door/Lid switch or door lock assembly not engaging

How to Identify: Washer won’t start unless door/lid is fully closed; pressing start yields no response; some models may show door error code; audible click of lock may be absent.

Part: Door/lid switch or lock assembly

Control settings or start sequence not correct

How to Identify: Start button may need to be held for ~3 seconds; cycle knob in unassigned position; delay start or control lock engaged.

Part: Control settings/Start button

Line or thermal fuse blown

How to Identify: No start at all even with correct door engagement; continuity test with multimeter fails; other electrical components may show faults.

Part: Line fuse or thermal fuse

Timer or cycle selector malfunction

How to Identify: Washer won’t move from selection to start; continuity test fail; settings don’t register.

Part: Timer/cycle selector

DIY Solutions

Ensure proper door/lid engagement

Easy 1–5 minutes
  1. Firmly close door or lid until you hear/feel latch click
  2. Attempt cycle start and ensure start button is pressed/held per model instructions

Reset control panel

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Unplug washer from power outlet or turn off circuit breaker
  2. Wait ~5 minutes to allow control resets
  3. Restore power and try to start cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Do not handle internal components while plugged in

Professional Repairs

Replace door lock/switch assembly

Estimated Cost: $50–$200

Replace electronic control board or user interface

Estimated Cost: $150–$500

Replace blown line or thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $10–$50

When to Call a Professional

No response after basic troubleshooting (power reset, door check)
Control panel dead or error codes persist
Electrical component testing required
Replacement of electronic control board or door lock assembly

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly check and clean door/lid latch area: Latch failure or improper closure detection
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect control panel buttons for debris: Unresponsive controls due to dirt
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not starting cycle?
Common reasons include a faulty door switch, incorrect control settings, or a blown fuse.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not starting cycle myself?
Ensure the door is fully closed and reset the control panel by unplugging the washer for 5 minutes.
How much does it cost to fix not starting cycle?
Professional repairs can range from $10 for a fuse replacement to $500 for control board issues.
When should I call a technician for not starting cycle?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions fail, especially for complex issues like control board replacement.

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

  • Faulty door latch or door switch preventing the cycle from starting
  • Control board malfunction or failure
  • Power supply issues, such as a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the door latch and switch. Ensure the door is fully closed and the latch is functioning properly. If faulty, replace the door latch or switch.

  2. Inspect the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace the control board.

  3. Check the power supply. Ensure the circuit breaker is not tripped and that the fuse is intact. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag washer turning on but wont start the cycle.

Community Discussions

washer turning on but won't start the cycle

Unplug the machine for a minute, then press the three buttons in sequence to reset.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!