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Maytag Dryer starts on its own

If your Maytag dryer starts on its own, the problem is usually an electrical control fault rather than the motor or drum. Start by checking the user controls and start/cancel button for intermittent faults; if the touchpad is working properly, the most likely causes in order are a bad motor relay, a defective timer, a failed main control board, or a faulty touchpad/user control and display board. You can often test relays and timers with a multimeter and the dryer wiring diagram, and you can visually inspect control boards for burned components or shorts. Replacing the defective relay, timer, or control board typically stops the dryer from powering up by itself. If you need the exact replacement part for your model, enter your dryer model number on RepairClinic.com to pull up parts that fit your machine and step-by-step repair guidance for fixing dryer controls not working or a dryer start button not working.

01 - Maytag Dryer Motor Relay

If the dryer touchpad is working appropriately, it's possible the motor relay is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the motor relay, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, you can test the motor relay by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram to help determine if it is malfunctioning.
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Highly Likely

02 - Maytag Dryer Timer

If the dryer touchpad is working appropriately, it's possible the timer is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.
Common

03 - Maytag Dryer Control Board

If the dryer touchpad is working appropriately, it's possible the main control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the main control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
Common

04 - Maytag Dryer Main Control Board

If the dryer touchpad is working appropriately, it's possible the main control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the main control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
Common

05 - Maytag Dryer Touchpad and Control Panel

If the dryer's start/cancel button is only working intermittently, it's likely the user control and display board is malfunctioning and causing the dryer to start running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.
Less Common

06 - Maytag Dryer User Control and Display Board

If the dryer's start/cancel button is only working intermittently, it's likely the user control and display board is malfunctioning and causing the dryer to start running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer start on its own?
My dryer starts then stops after a few seconds. What should I check?
The start button only works sometimes. Do I need a new touchpad or control board?
How do I test the motor relay or timer myself?
How do I enter my model or part number at RepairClinic to find the right replacement?