June 2023

Why won’t my Maytag washing machine agitate but will spin and drain?

What is Agitation?

Agitation is the back-and-forth motion of the agitator or the wash plate inside the washer that helps to loosen dirt and stains from your clothes. Agitation is an important part of the wash cycle, as it helps to improve the cleaning performance and efficiency of your washer.

Why Won’t My Maytag Washer Agitate?

There are several possible causes for a Maytag washer not agitating properly, such as:

  • A broken agitator or wash plate
  • A faulty transmission
  • A damaged drive block
  • A worn or damaged drive belt
  • A faulty door lock

Some of these parts can be inspected and replaced by the user, while others may require professional help. The first step is to unplug the washer and make sure it is dry and drained. Then, the user can check the following parts for any signs of wear or damage:

Agitator/Wash Plate

The agitator or the wash plate is the part that moves back and forth inside the washer. If it is broken, cracked, loose, or stripped, it may not be able to agitate properly. To check the agitator or the wash plate, you need to remove the dispenser cap or the bolt that holds it in place, and then lift it out of the washer. 

Drive Belt

The drive belt is the part that connects the motor to the transmission and the agitator. If it is worn out, broken, or slipped off, it may not be able to transfer power to the agitator. To check the drive belt, you need to remove the back panel or the front panel of the washer, depending on your model. You can then inspect the belt for any cracks, tears, or fraying. You can also check the tension of the belt by pushing it in with your finger. It should have about half an inch of give. If not, you may need to adjust or replace it.

Door Lock

The door lock is the part that prevents the washer from starting if the door is not closed properly. If it is faulty, it may not sense that the door is closed and prevent the washer from agitating. To check the door lock, you need to use a multimeter to test its continuity. If there is no continuity, you need to replace it.

Transmission/Drive Block

The transmission or the drive block is the part that transfers power from the motor to the agitator or the wash plate. If it is faulty or damaged, it may not be able to rotate or engage with the agitator or the wash plate. To check the transmission or the drive block, you need to remove the agitator or the wash plate first, and then inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. You can also try to turn them by hand. If they are hard to turn or don’t turn at all, you may have a problem with the transmission or the drive block. These parts are more difficult to replace and may require professional help.

How to Fix My Maytag Washer?

Depending on which part is causing your Maytag washer not to agitate, you may need to order a replacement part and install it yourself, or call a Maytag repairman to diagnose and fix it for you. You can find genuine Maytag replacement parts online or contact your local Maytag service center for assistance.

I hope this article has helped you understand why your Maytag washer won’t agitate but will spin and drain, and how to fix it. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contack us.

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