Maytag MV Washer Won't Spin or Drain – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Maytag MV-series top-load washer fills with water but doesn't drain or spin, the problem is usually with the drain system or the lid/safety interlocks that allow the motor to run. In many cases the machine will complete parts of the cycle, but clothes stay waterlogged because the pump isn't moving water out or the drive system isn't engaging the tub for spin. Diagnosis starts with simple checks: listen for the drain pump when the machine enters the drain portion of the cycle, check that the lid locks and switches operate, and inspect hoses for clogs. Depending on model age and symptoms, the fix is usually replacing the drain pump, lid switch/lock, drive belt or motor coupling — or clearing a clog in the drain hose or pump housing.
Common Symptoms
Washer fills but does not drain, washer will not enter spin, loud humming or no noise during drain, water left in tub, error codes related to draining or lid lock.
Common Causes
- Clogged drain hose or pump housing (coins, lint, small garments)
- Failed drain pump (electrical or mechanical failure)
- Faulty lid switch or door lock preventing motor from running
- Worn drive belt or broken motor coupling (motor runs but tub doesn't spin)
- Control board or timer failure sending no power to pump/motor
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Run a drain/spin cycle and put your ear next to the washer — you should hear the drain pump motor whirring. If you hear nothing and the washer is properly powered, the pump or its wiring is likely faulty. If you hear the pump but water doesn’t exit, check the drain hose and pump impeller for blockages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I quickly check if the drain pump is bad?
Start a drain/spin cycle and listen: a working pump will make a whirring sound. If there's no sound and the washer has power, unplug the machine and check the pump wiring for loose connectors. If the pump hums but doesn't move water, the impeller may be jammed or the pump is failing and should be replaced. Also inspect the drain hose and pump inlet for blockages (coins, small items).
Can I fix this myself or should I call a technician?
You can perform basic checks and simple fixes yourself: clear the drain hose and pump inlet, test for audible pump operation, and inspect the lid switch. Replacing user-accessible parts like the pump, lid switch, or belt is commonly a DIY job if you have basic tools and follow safety steps (unplug the washer first). If electrical diagnostics or control board replacement is required, or you’re not comfortable disassembling the washer, call a qualified appliance technician.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.