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Maytag Washer Making Loud Noise? Identify the Sound

Quick Answer

Maytag washer noises are diagnosed by sound type, not by when they occur. Grinding or scraping: worn tub bearing (W10435302) or foreign object in pump.

Maytag washer noises are diagnosed by sound type, not by when they occur. Grinding or scraping: worn tub bearing (W10435302) or foreign object in pump. Banging or thumping during spin: unbalanced load or worn shock absorbers (front-load) or suspension rods (top-load W10780048). Squealing or screeching: drive belt or worn pulley (Bravos models). Humming without running: motor trying to run but jammed. Clicking near lid area: lid lock engagement (normal) or broken lid strike (abnormal). Sounds like a jet engine during spin almost always means failed tub bearings.

MaytagWasherSeverity: lowDifficulty: intermediate
Time to Fix
15–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
Tools Needed
None
Wrong code?

Not seeing SYMPTOM on your display?

Select what your appliance is actually doing and we'll take you to the right guide.

What Does the SYMPTOM Code Mean?

Maytag washer noises are diagnostic indicators. The type of sound, its pitch, and the cycle phase in which it occurs each point to a specific component. A grinding sound at high speed indicates bearing wear, while a banging or thumping sound during spin usually indicates an unbalanced load or failed suspension components.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Worn tub bearing (grinding, especially at high speed)40%
Unbalanced load causing banging during spin24%
Worn or broken shock absorbers or suspension rods14%
Worn drive belt or pulley on Bravos belt-drive models12%
Foreign object (coin, button) trapped between drum and tub10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Grinding or metal-on-metal sound
  • Thumping or banging during spin cycle
  • High-pitched squeal during agitation or spin
  • Loud humming but drum does not move
  • Rattling sound from pump area

Can you reset a Maytag washer to clear the SYMPTOM code?

If a foreign object is causing the noise: access the coin trap or pump filter area first. A coin trapped in the pump impeller will create a grinding or clattering noise during drain.

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Match sound type to cause

Use the diagnostic table: grinding = bearing or debris, banging = balance or suspension, squealing = belt or pulley, humming = motor jam.

2

Spin drum by hand

3

Check inside drum for foreign objects

4

Inspect suspension rods or shock absorbers

5

Run spin cycle and locate sound

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Maytag washer sound like a jet engine during spin?
A jet engine sound during spin is almost always a failed tub bearing. The bearing is the support point for the drum shaft. When it fails, metal grinds against metal at high RPM. The sound will worsen over time. Replace the tub bearing (W10435302) as soon as possible.
Is a loud Maytag washer dangerous?
It depends on the cause. A banging noise from an unbalanced load is not dangerous. A grinding noise from a failing tub bearing is - continued use can cause the drum to seize or damage the outer tub, turning a $150 bearing job into a $400 repair or full replacement.
How much does it cost to replace washer bearings?
Parts for the tub bearing assembly (W10435302) run $50-120. Labor adds $100-200 if a technician does the work. The job requires splitting the outer tub on most models, so it is a 2-3 hour repair. Total expected cost: $150-320.
Can I still use my washer if it is making a grinding noise?
Short term, yes - but it is not recommended. Grinding from a failing bearing will worsen with each load. If the bearing seizes completely, the drum stops mid-cycle and the repair cost increases significantly. Plan the repair within the next few cycles.

Related Maytag Washer Error Codes

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Maytag shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Models Known to Experience SYMPTOM Errors

This repair applies to most Maytag washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

MVWC415EW, MVWC465HW, MVWB835DW, MVWB765FW, MVWX655DW, MVWB965HC, MVWC360AW, MVWC416FW, MHW7000XW, MHW6000XW, MHW5500FW, MHW8100DC, MHW3505FW, MHW5630HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026