How to troubleshoot Maytag Centennial washer problems

Maytag began manufacturing Centennial top-load washing machines in 2007. From 2007 to 2010, Centennial washers used a direct-drive system to agitate and spin the basket. Starting in 2010, Maytag began using the vertical modular drive system in Centennial washers. Vertical modular washers use a drive belt and pulley system to spin the washer drum.

Here are some tips to follow when your Maytag Centennial washer stops working.

How do I troubleshoot Maytag Centennial washer problems?

For the 2010 and later models of Maytag Centennial washers, the electronic control signals an error code on the control panel when something goes wrong. Follow the troubleshooting described on our Maytag Centennial VMW top-load washer error code chart to fix your washer.

For 2007 to 2010 direct-drive Centennial washers, follow the troubleshooting tips in these videos to fix common washer problems:

• Troubleshooting a direct-drive top-load washer that won't fill video

• Troubleshooting a top-load washer that won't drain or spin video

What causes a Maytag Centennial washer not to spin?

2010 and later VMW-style Maytag Centennial washer

A broken drive belt, failed spin mode shifter, bad drain pump or a number of other problems can prevent the VMW-style Maytag Centennial washer from spinning. This type of washer will signal an error code when the washer won’t spin. You may just see the Lid Lock light flashing on some models instead of seeing a code on the control panel. When that happens, follow the steps in our How to display error codes on vertical modular washers (VMWs) video to see which error code was triggered. Look up the code on our Maytag Centennial VMW top-load washer error code chart and follow the troubleshooting steps described for the code to fix the problem.

2007 to 2010 direct-drive Maytag Centennial washer

A bad lid switch is one of the most frequent causes of a spin failure in a direct-drive washer. Unplug the washer and check the lid switch for damage. Replace the lid switch if it’s damaged.

If the lid switch looks okay, it could still be malfunctioning. You can check the lid switch with a multimeter to see whether it’s working properly. With the washer still unplugged, push a putty knife under each end cap of the control console to release spring clips and hinge the control console up and back to access the lid switch. Release the lid switch locking clip and pull it off the top washer panel. Unplug the lid switch wire harness. With your meter set to measure resistance, press the lid switch actuator in (simulating the lid being closed) and measure resistance through the lid switch. The meter should measure near 0 ohms of resistance through the lid switch if it’s good. Replace the lid switch if the meter measures infinite resistance.

If the lid switch is okay, then a bad clutch, faulty gearcase or bad timer could be preventing the washer from spinning. A service technician will typically need to diagnose and repair the washer if the lid switch wasn’t preventing the washer from spinning.

How do I reset my Maytag Centennial washing machine?

Sometimes a power surge through the electrical supply lines can cause the electronic control on VMW-style Maytag Centennial washers to freeze up. To reset or reboot the electronic control board, unplug the washer for 3 minutes and then plug it back in. The washer may work normally after you restore power.