Maytag Washing Machine: not starting properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing trouble with your Maytag washing machine not starting? If pressing the Start button yields no response and the control panel seems unresponsive, you might be facing common issues such as a locked control panel or a malfunctioning lid switch. Don't worry; this guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve these problems efficiently.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag washers require pressing and holding the Start button for up to 3 seconds to begin a cycle on some models.
  • Control Lock feature can prevent any button from functioning until disabled.

Possible Causes

Control Lock feature engaged

How to Identify: Control lock light is on and buttons do not respond.

Part: Control panel

Start button not held correctly

How to Identify: User presses Start briefly but cycle doesn’t begin; holding Start ~3 sec initiates cycle.

Part: Control interface

Wiring issues between user interface and control board

How to Identify: Intermittent or no start; visible pinched/damaged wiring on inspection.

Part: Internal wiring harness

Internal safety sensor (lid switch) mechanical failure

How to Identify: Door appears closed but switch fails continuity test with multimeter.

Part: Lid switch/door lock sensor

DIY Solutions

Disable Control Lock and Start Properly

Easy 2 minutes
  1. Check if Control Lock light is illuminated and press/hold the Control Lock button to disengage.
  2. Press and hold the Start button for about 3 seconds until the cycle begins.

Ensure Door/Lid Is Fully Closed

Easy 2 minutes
  1. Check inside the door/lid area for obstructions or clothing trapped at the seal.
  2. Firmly close the door or lid until you hear the latch click into place.
  3. Attempt to start the cycle again.

Reset Washer Control

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Unplug the washer or turn off its circuit breaker.
  2. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge and control to reset.
  3. Restore power and attempt to start the washer again.

Inspect and Clean Control Interface Contact Pads

Moderate 30 minutes
Tools Needed: Rubbing alcohol, Screwdriver
  1. Disconnect power to the washer.
  2. Remove control panel to access the underside of the user interface.
  3. Clean any corroded contact pads with alcohol and allow to dry.
  4. Reassemble and test functionality.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before opening control panel.

Professional Repairs

Replace Door Latch / Lid Switch Assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace Main Control Board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace Line Fuse

Estimated Cost: $5 - $20

Repair/Replace Internal Wiring Harness

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200

When to Call a Professional

No response from controls after DIY reset and checks
Door latch/lid switch continuity tests indicate fault and replacing it is beyond comfort level
Control board shows signs of damage or diagnostics indicate failure
Internal wiring appears damaged or pinched

Preventive Maintenance

  • Keep door/lid seals clean and free of debris: False open/latch errors and starting issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Run control panel reset occasionally: Temporary glitches and unresponsive controls
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine not starting properly?
Common causes include the Control Lock being engaged, issues with the Start button, or a faulty lid switch.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine not starting properly myself?
Try disabling the Control Lock, ensuring the lid is closed, or resetting the washer.
How much does it cost to fix not starting properly?
Professional repairs range from $5 for a fuse to $400 for a main control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for not starting properly?
Consider calling a technician if simple solutions fail or if you suspect wiring issues.

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 door latch or door switch preventing the machine from starting
  • Power supply issues, such as a tripped circuit breaker or faulty outlet
  • Malfunctioning control board or timer causing operational failures

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check the door latch and switch: Ensure the door is fully closed and the latch is functioning. If the latch is broken, replace it.

  2. Inspect power supply: Check the circuit breaker and outlet for power. Reset the breaker if tripped and test the outlet with another appliance.

  3. Test and replace the control board: Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the control board. If faulty, replace the board following the manufacturer's instructions.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Help: Maytag "commercial grade" washer stops after we start ...

Community Discussions

stops after we start the cycle

Capacitor issue or mechanical problem

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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