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Why Your Maytag Washer Is Loud and What It Could Mean

If your Maytag washer is loud, the sound can quickly go from mildly annoying to concerning. While every washer makes some noise during normal operation, loud banging, grinding, squealing, rattling, or roaring sounds can point to a mechanical issue that needs attention.

Unusual washer noises are often easier to address when they are diagnosed early. Understanding the most common causes can help you recognize when the issue may be minor and when it is time to contact a professional.

Common Reasons Your Maytag Washer Is Loud

A washer can make different noises depending on which part of the cycle it is in. For example, banging during the spin cycle may suggest a balance or suspension issue, while grinding during draining may point to the drain pump.

The sections below explain several common reasons your Maytag washer may be loud, what each issue usually sounds like, and why professional service may be needed if the noise continues.

Unbalanced Loads

An unbalanced load is one of the most common reasons a washer becomes loud. Large items such as towels, blankets, or bedding can shift to one side of the drum during the spin cycle, causing the washer to bang, shake, or thump.

Common signs include:

  • Loud banging during the spin cycle
  • The washer shaking more than usual
  • Noise that happens only with certain bulky loads
  • A cycle that pauses or struggles to finish spinning


If the noise happens only occasionally, the load itself may be the issue. If your Maytag washer is loud during most cycles, even with normal loads, a worn suspension part may be causing the washer to move too much.

Worn Suspension Rods or Shock Absorbers

Suspension rods and shock absorbers help stabilize the washer tub while it spins. When these parts wear down, the tub can move more than it should, creating loud knocking, banging, or shaking sounds.

This issue is especially noticeable during high-speed spin cycles. The washer may sound like it is hitting the inside of the cabinet, or it may vibrate heavily while running.

Because suspension problems can place extra strain on the washer, it is best to have the appliance inspected by a qualified technician if the noise keeps happening.

Maytag washing machine makes noise

Damaged Drum Bearings

Drum bearings help the washer tub rotate smoothly. When they wear out, the washer may develop a deep rumbling or roaring sound, especially during the spin cycle.

What you may notice:

  • A loud roaring noise as the drum spins
  • Rumbling that gets worse over time
  • Grinding sounds during high-speed operation
  • Noise that continues even with balanced loads


Bearing problems are not surface-level maintenance issues. They usually require professional diagnosis because the repair can be involved and may affect other washer components.

Loose or Worn Drive Components

Drive components help move the washer through agitation and spin cycles. Depending on the washer model, these parts may include belts, pulleys, and related mechanical components.

When drive components wear out, the washer may make squealing, chirping, scraping, or thumping noises. You may hear the sound when the washer starts, changes cycles, or begins spinning.

A technician can determine whether the noise is coming from the drive system or another moving part. Prompt service can help prevent additional wear.

Failing Drive Motor

The drive motor powers the washer during wash and spin cycles. If the motor begins to fail, it may create humming, buzzing, grinding, or strained operating sounds.

A failing motor may also affect washer performance. In some cases, noise may appear along with spin problems, which can make it helpful to understand what causes a washer won’t spin issue.

A professional should handle motor-related concerns because they involve electrical and mechanical diagnosis.

Worn Tub Seal and Bearing Assembly

The tub seal helps keep water away from the washer’s bearing assembly. When the seal wears down, moisture can reach the bearings and cause additional damage.

Possible warning signs include:

  • Rumbling or grinding during the spin cycle
  • Noise that becomes louder over time
  • Water-related symptoms near the washer
  • A washer that sounds rough while operating


If your Maytag washer is loud and you also notice moisture concerns, it may be useful to learn more about why a washer leaks water. A technician can determine whether the noise and leak symptoms are related.

Foreign Objects Trapped in the Washer

Small items such as coins, buttons, hair pins, or other loose objects can sometimes create rattling, clicking, or scraping sounds inside the washer.

Safe checks include looking inside the drum for visible items and checking pockets before future loads. Avoid trying to access internal components or remove parts to search for hidden objects.

If the sound continues after visible items have been removed, the object may be in an area that requires professional service.

Drain Pump Problems

The drain pump removes water from the washer during drain cycles. When the pump is damaged or failing, it may create grinding, buzzing, humming, or rattling noises while the washer drains.

This problem may appear with:

  • Loud noise during the drain portion of the cycle
  • Water remaining in the washer
  • Cycles that do not complete properly
  • A washer that sounds strained while removing water


If the noise happens while draining, it may be connected to a washing machine won’t drain water concern. Drain pump assemblies are typically replaced rather than taken apart, so professional service is recommended.

Final Recommendations

When your Maytag washer is loud, the cause may be as simple as an unbalanced load or as serious as worn bearings, a failing motor, suspension problems, or drain pump failure. Paying attention to when the noise happens and what it sounds like can help a technician diagnose the issue more efficiently.

For dependable washing machine repair in Columbus, contact Capital City Appliance Service. Our team can inspect your washer, identify the source of the noise, and perform the right repair to help restore quieter, more reliable performance.

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