Maytag is one of the most dependable American-made washing machines, so when it doesn’t turn on, it’s both shocking and frustrating. Why is my Maytag front load washer not starting? If the Control Lock feature is activated, all control panel functions will lock, including the Start button. Determine why your Maytag front load washer won’t start with these common causes.
How to Troubleshoot a Maytag Front Load Washer Not Starting
While part malfunctions are a possibility, a Maytag front load washer not starting often has a straightforward cause. Our troubleshooting tips start with DIY fixes and simple adjustments so your washer starts on command.
1) Check Incoming Power
If you find your Maytag washing machine start button not working, as well as other functions, there may be a power issue. Without adequate electrical power, the washer won’t turn on and the control panel won’t illuminate.
Here’s how to check your Maytag washer’s incoming power:
- Assess the power cord: Make sure it’s damage-free properly plugged into a 3-prong outlet. Refrain from using extension cords that can can’t transmit the voltage required, causing surges that interrupt power.
- Look for tripped breakers: Check your home circuit breaker box and reset any tripped breakers, if needed.
- Reset the washer: Sometimes resetting the washer is necessary to start a wash cycle, especially in the event of a power surge or outage. To reset a Maytag washer, unplug it or turn off its circuit breaker for 1 minute before restoring power.
2) Control Lock Is Engaged
Is your Maytag washer locked and won’t turn on? Check the control panel to see if Control Lock is engaged. This feature locks all control panel functions to prevent accidental use. When Control Lock is engaged, the code “LoC” or “LC” may display on the control panel.
The process for disengaging the Control Lock feature varies depending on your model washer. Some have a Control Lock button that can be pressed and held for 3 seconds to disable the feature. Other washers have a dual-function process that requires two keys to be pressed and held. Refer to your Maytag user manual to determine the right process for your washer.
3) Washer Door Not Latched Shut
A Maytag washer’s door latch is a safety feature that must be engaged for a wash cycle to start. Always give the door a firm push to engage the latch. Even after doing so, the door will lock, unlock, and lock again, taking about 10 seconds to start a cycle.
What if my Maytag front load washer won’t turn on and the door looks closed? Do a final check to make sure overhanging clothing isn’t preventing proper closure. If there are no trapped items and the washer still won’t turn on, it’s possible the door latch is defective. If it appears damaged or fails multimeter testing with no continuity, it should be professionally replaced.
4) Washer Settings Issue
Before starting a wash cycle, check the control panel to make sure the right setting is selected and it’s free of error codes. If your Maytag washer turns on but won’t start, the Delayed Start setting may be enabled, delaying the beginning of the wash cycle. Similarly, error codes on the control panel can alert you to issues that prevent an immediate start. Not selecting a cycle or starting one while the door is open will prompt an error code, preventing the washer from starting. Refer to your user manual to determine the meaning of the code and how to clear it.
Lastly, remember that your washer won’t begin washing if the Start button isn’t pressed correctly. Always press and hold the button for 3 seconds to initiate the start of a cycle.
5) Broken Washing Machine Parts
If all else fails to diagnose a Maytag front load washer not starting, a broken part may be responsible.
Whether you have a front load vs top load washer, the following parts require a professional repair when they fail:
- Thermal fuse: A thermal fuse will blow, stopping all functions, if the washer is in danger of overheating or if it’s faulty. Before replacing the fuse, a professional service should assess the washer to determine if overheating is a factor.
- Control board: This computerized board processes control panel commands and sends voltage to the right function. If the board fails, it won’t respond to commands or initiate the right washer function.
- Timer: The timer works with the control board to prompt the right washer function at the right time. In the rare case that it’s broken, the washer may not start, drain or fill when it should.
The technicians at Callahan’s Appliance can perform the right washing machine repair to fix a Maytag front load washer not starting. Schedule your expert service today!
