Maytag Washing Machine: timer malfunction

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a timer malfunction with your Maytag washing machine? If the timer fails to advance through cycles, gets stuck, or doesn't engage control functions, you're not alone. This issue can stem from a faulty timer assembly, dirty timer contacts, or even a malfunctioning lid switch. Understanding these symptoms can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Maytag Models

  • Certain Maytag models like LAT8624AAE show timer not advancing as a common symptom with specific replacement part WP22001252 often fixing the issue
  • Maytag washer lid switch issues can mimic timer malfunctions preventing cycle advance

Possible Causes

Faulty or worn timer assembly

How to Identify: Machine gets stuck on one cycle (e.g., wash and does not advance, no clicking or movement of timer switch contacts

Part: Timer assembly / timer motor

Dirty or corroded timer contacts

How to Identify: Intermittent progression through cycles, may improve after resetting or cleaning; visible corrosion on contacts when panel opened

Part: Timer contact points inside timer assembly

Lid switch failure preventing electrical drive to timer

How to Identify: Timer won’t advance when lid is open or switch not engaging; machine behaves as if lid open continuously

Part: Lid switch / lid lock mechanism

Loose or damaged wiring to timer/control board

How to Identify: Intermittent timer advance; visible loose connectors when accessing control panel

Part: Wiring harness between timer and control board

Faulty main control board affecting timer signals

How to Identify: Timer behaviour irregular with other control symptoms (e.g., panel unresponsive, error codes present

Part: Main control board / electronic control

DIY Solutions

Clean timer contacts

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, cotton swabs, rubbing alcohol
  1. Unplug washer and remove control panel to access timer assembly
  2. Inspect the timer contacts inside timer for debris or corrosion
  3. Use cotton swab with alcohol to clean contacts gently
  4. Reassemble and test washer for cycle progression
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before opening control panel

Inspect and secure wiring to timer

Moderate 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers
  1. Unplug washing machine
  2. Remove control panel to expose wiring harness to timer
  3. Check that all wiring connectors to timer are firmly seated and intact
  4. Reconnect any loose wires and reassemble panel
  5. Power on and test washer
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected

Test lid switch with multimeter

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Unplug washer and locate lid switch under top panel
  2. Use multimeter to test continuity when lid is closed
  3. If no continuity, replace lid switch
  4. Reassemble and test timer advancement
⚠️ Safety First: Power must be off before testing

Professional Repairs

Replace timer assembly

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200 (parts)

Replace main control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350 (parts)

When to Call a Professional

Timer still doesn’t advance after cleaning and wiring checks
Control panel shows multiple failures or error codes beyond timer issues
Uncertain diagnosis of control board or electronic failures

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean timer contacts: Corrosion build‑up leading to timer malfunction
    Frequency: annually
  • Check wiring harness connections: Loose connections causing intermittent timer failure
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag Washing Machine timer malfunction?
Common causes include a faulty timer assembly, dirty contacts, or a lid switch failure.
How do I fix Maytag Washing Machine timer malfunction myself?
You can clean timer contacts, inspect wiring, or test the lid switch for continuity.
How much does it cost to fix timer malfunction?
Professional repair costs range from $80 to $350, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for timer malfunction?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if you're uncomfortable with repairs, 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: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty timer motor
  • Worn out timer dial mechanism
  • Electrical connection issues

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace the timer motor: Unplug the washing machine, remove the control panel, disconnect the faulty timer motor, and install the new one. Reassemble the panel and plug the machine back in.

  2. Inspect and replace the timer dial mechanism: Open the control panel, check for any signs of wear or damage on the dial, and replace it if necessary.

  3. Check electrical connections: Ensure all wiring and connections to the timer are secure and not corroded. Repair any damaged wires or connectors.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Maytag Bravo Washer Timer Broken (medx500bw0)

Community Discussions

timer dial mechanism broken

Replacement timer motor found on Appliance Parts Pros.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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