How to replace the main control board in a top-loading Maytag washer

Imagine this: you’ve loaded your laundry, added your favorite detergent, and you’re ready to tackle that mountain of clothes. But your top-loading Maytag washing machine seems to have other plans by refusing to start or behaving erratically.

Before you consider a pricey service call or a new washer, there’s a good chance that a new main control board might just be the hero you need. Yes, you read that right – sometimes the key to a happy laundry day lies in the simple replacement of your machine’s electronic brain!

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty steps, make sure you have a replacement control board that’s compatible with your specific model. If you don’t already have one, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find and order it. It should be on your doorstep in just a few days. You can also visit this page to find more replacement parts for your Maytag machine.

And remember, you got this! Let’s get your Maytag washer back to its laundry-spinning glory!

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

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What you need

• Putty knife
• Phillips head screwdriver
• 1/4-inch nut driver

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

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Replacement steps

1. Remove the 1/4-inch screws that hold the console to the back cover.
2. Use the putty knife to press in the tabs that are at each front corner of the console. With the putty knife inserted in between the console and top panel, press in and lift up.
3. Pull the cycle knob off of the console and lay the console on its face.
4. Take a picture of the wires as they’re connected to the control so that it’s easier to install the new one.
5. Disconnect the wires from the main control by carefully releasing the lock tabs.
6. Unscrew the Phillips head screws from the main control.
7. Remove the old control and set it aside.
8. Set the new control into place and install the screws and wires.
9. Place the console back on and install the knob.
10. Secure the back cover to the console with the 1/4-inch screws.

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How to care for your washing machine

• Run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner, vinegar or baking soda to remove any built-up debris or odors.
• Inspect the water supply lines for any signs of mineral buildup, damage or leaks. Replace any damaged or leaking lines.
• Clean the panels, lid or door and hinges of debris and check for rust.
• Check the detergent dispenser for blockages or clogs. Flush it with warm water to clear any debris.
• Use only as much detergent as you need, and make sure it’s the right type for your machine.
• Leave the lid or door open after each use to prevent funky smells, mold and mildew.
• Select the right load size for the amount of laundry you’re washing. Don’t overload the machine, and don’t wash a small load of laundry on a large cycle.
• Always empty all pockets and shake out other items before loading them into the machine. This prevents clogs and damage to your items while washing.
• Don’t leave your wet laundry in the machine after it’s done. Doing so could cause nasty odors and even mold in your machine or laundry.

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More information

Thanks for stopping by! We hope this guide helped you replace the main control board in your Maytag washer.

If you run into any issues, call us at 1-877-477-7278 or start a chat with a pro on our website so we can help you through it. We’ve got many more troubleshooting and repair guides on our DIY blog and YouTube channel, and, of course, all the parts you need to do it yourself at AppliancePartsPros.com. 

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