Maytag is one of the most dependable dryer brands on the market. Their models are long-lasting, user-friendly, portable, and cost-effective. But Maytag dryers, like any other appliance, can develop problems after years of use, including problems with the timer.
A broken motor, a loss of continuity in the wiring, or heavy use might cause a Maytag dryer’s timer to cease operating. You must generally replace the timer motor to resolve these issues.
But not to fret: in this article, we’ll show you how to diagnose and repair the most frequent timer issues with your Maytag dryer.
How Does the Maytag Dryer’s Timer Work?
Along with the cycling thermostat, one of the most crucial components of any dryer is the timer. The timer is the mechanism that controls the machine’s start and stop times, and is also in charge of controlling the dryer’s power settings during each cycle.
The timer is generally seen on the terminal of the control panel. It uses a tiny motor to control the power adjustments in each of the dryer’s components. The motor contacts function as a clock mechanism inside the timer to control the drying cycle. You won’t be able to use your dryer if it isn’t connected to the motor or operating correctly.
Maytag dryers are available in both electric and gas models. They both function in the same way, but the timer in both models can be an issue.
1. Maytag Dryer Timer Won’t Advance
Causes of Maytag Dryer Timer Not Advancing
You’ve examined your dryer and determined that the timer is the source of the problem. Even when your dryer is connected and unlocked, the timer will not progress. If that’s the case, the timer’s motor might be the cause.
You won’t be able to start your dryer if the timer is defective; therefore, you must repair it.
Checking the Timing Motor
The following are steps to fix a stagnant timer:
Unplug the dryer. This is a safety precaution to prevent injuries or damage.
Open the control panel. This is where you can access the timer.
Disconnect the cables from the timer’s motor. Use care when doing this.
Test for electrical interference or unusual continuity using a multimeter.
Normally, you should obtain a reading of zero on your multimeter. If the reading is higher, you need to replace the timer motor.
2. Maytag Dryer Timer Motor Isn’t Working
Causes
If your timer motor does not stop, this is a sign that the dryer is not being prompted to turn off after a cycle.
Improper air ventilation is the most prevalent cause. However, if your air ducts are clean and in good shape, the timer is the next stop.
You can tell if the timer isn’t operating correctly by checking for continuity in a wire that links to the timer’s motor.
Unplug the dryer.
Disconnect the timer from the motor.
Locate the timer in the control board.
Measure the current flowing to the timer using a multimeter.
If you can’t locate a reading, it’s because your contacts aren’t functioning properly. If this is the case, you need to replace the timer. Refer to the manual for model number and wiring diagrams.
When a timer fails, there isn’t much you can do to repair it. You have to replace it with a new one. But we recommend purchasing the motor rather than buying a replacement for the whole timer mechanism.
Refer to this video for additional guidance on how to change a timer.
3. Maytag Dryer Knob Is Stuck
Causes
When the knob on your Maytag dryer timer is stuck, it might be due to wear and tear over time. If this is the case, the only option is to remove the knob and replace it with a new one. On the timer shaft, the knob is located inside the knob assembly. You’ll find the timer shaft on the control console panel.
Fixes
To fix the knob, do the following:
Remove the timer knob assembly from the timer shaft. This is a simple task that will only require a small amount of strength.
Pull gently on the plastic cab to remove it. You’ll need your flat head screwdriver to remove the old knob once the plastic cab has been removed. If you don’t do it right, you’ll have to replace the entire mechanism.
Replace the knob with the new one.
Before plugging your dryer back in, double-check that everything is in its proper place.
4. Maytag Dryer Broken Heating Element
Causes
Before the heat reaches the dryer drum, the heating element is first warmed by the cycling thermostat. The heating element might burn out over time. The clothing will take much longer to heat and dry if it isn’t working.
Fixes
Use a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the heating element if it no longer has continuity. Likewise, if the heating element assembly fails, this will significantly extend the drying time.
5. Maytag Dryer Cycling Thermostat is Broken
Cause
The cycling thermostat is commonly located in the internal airflow ducting, typically on the blower housing. If your gas or electric dryer isn’t properly performing the Auto Dry or timed dry cycle settings, it might be due to a faulty cycling thermostat.
On Auto Dry models, this component controls the dryer’s temperature and the operation of the timer. This thermostat will turn on the heater circuit until the desired temperature is achieved, then cycle on the timer until the temperature lowers to where you can turn the heater back on.
Fixes
Because the only way to tell if the cycling thermostat is advancing the timer is to run the dryer, a test to see if the thermostat is playing a role in this sequence should be performed by a service technician.
However, before you pay for an expensive repair, rule out all other possible causes of timer failure. Although it may be less expensive upfront to replace a cycling thermostat, contact a service technician if it needs to be replaced to save you a long-term headache.
6. Maytag Defective Thermistor
Causes
In some dryers, the thermistor monitors and regulates the dryer temperature, and may be defective if the electric or gas dryer does not stop. If the thermistor is defective, it may cut off the heat too soon, extending the drying time significantly. This, however, is uncommon.
Fixes
If the thermistor is defective, replacing it would be a good idea. But, if you can repair it and salvage the parts, you can search for an electronic shop to repair the thermistor. So, you can get back to drying your clothes in no time.
