Maytag Washing Machine: squeaking during agitation

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Maytag washing machine is producing a high-pitched squeaking noise during agitation, especially under load, it may indicate underlying issues. This noise is not typical and can be attributed to causes such as a worn drive belt, unlevel machine, or foreign debris. Addressing the problem promptly can prevent further damage and ensure efficient operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Maytag documentation indicates some grinding/rubbing noises during agitation can be normal but loud or persistent squeaks indicate mechanical issues beyond normal sound. (Product Help | Maytag

Possible Causes

Worn or slipping drive belt

How to Identify: Squeal or squeak that varies with load size; visible wear, glazing, cracks on belt; noise persists when under torque during agitation rather than spin.

Part: Drive belt / drive pulley

Worn agitator wash plate slipping on shaft

How to Identify: Squeaking that sounds like rubbing; reported in community case where wash plate wear caused noise during agitation only.

Part: Agitator / wash plate (e.g., part W10902814)

Foreign object trapped under agitator or between tubs

How to Identify: Sudden onset after certain loads; intermittent squeak; may stop when object shifts; visible after agitator removal.

Part: Drum/interior areas

Unlevel machine causing tub or parts to rub

How to Identify: Noise changes when machine is manually stabilized; visible rocking; noise diminishes after level adjustment.

Part: Leveling feet / chassis alignment

DIY Solutions

Level the washer

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Carpenter's level, Wrench
  1. Unplug the washer and ensure it is empty.
  2. Use a carpenter’s level on top of the washer to check if it’s level side to side and front to back.
  3. Adjust the leveling feet by turning clockwise/counter‑clockwise until the machine is stable and level.
  4. Run a short agitation cycle to verify noise reduction.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before moving or adjusting the unit.

Inspect and replace drive belt

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Socket set, Flashlight
  1. Unplug the washer and access the back or bottom panel.
  2. Locate the drive belt and inspect for cracking, glazing, or looseness.
  3. If worn, remove the old belt and install a new one of correct size and type.
  4. Reassemble panels and test with a wash cycle to confirm noise resolution.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected.

Check under agitator for wear or debris

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Socket set
  1. Unplug the washer and remove the agitator according to model instructions.
  2. Inspect the wash plate or agitator base for wear, damage, or debris.
  3. Clean out any debris and replace worn agitator components (e.g., wash plate).
  4. Reassemble and test for noise improvement.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power.

Professional Repairs

Transmission or internal gearcase replacement

Estimated Cost: $250 - $600+

Agitator shaft/assembly or tub bearing replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $800+

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after belt or agitator inspection/replacement
Internal grinding accompanied by slowing or failure to complete wash cycles
Oil leakage or visible damage inside transmission area

Preventive Maintenance

  • Level washer and adjust feet: Noise due to imbalance
    Frequency: Annually or after relocation
  • Inspect drive belt for wear: Squeaking and slipping noises
    Frequency: Every 1–2 years
  • Clear debris from drum and under agitator: Noise from foreign objects
    Frequency: Monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine squeaking during agitation?
Common causes include a worn drive belt, unlevel machine, or foreign objects trapped under the agitator.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine squeaking during agitation myself?
You can level the washer, inspect and replace the drive belt, or check under the agitator for debris.
How much does it cost to fix squeaking during agitation?
Professional repairs can range from $250 to $800+, depending on the specific issue.
When should I call a technician for squeaking during agitation?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if you're uncomfortable with repairs, it's best to call a technician.

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

  • Worn or damaged snubber ring
  • Loose or damaged brake system components
  • Worn drive belt or pulley

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the snubber ring. Disconnect the power, remove the agitator, and replace the snubber if it's worn or damaged.

  2. Tighten or replace brake system components. Check for any loose parts and tighten or replace as necessary to eliminate squeaking.

  3. Examine the drive belt and pulley for wear. Replace the drive belt if it's frayed or the pulley if it's damaged.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag washing machine squeaking noise during agitation (Qui...

Community Discussions

loud squeaking during agitation

Replaced the snubber and cleaned and tightened the brake system.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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