When I saw the Maytag commercial many years - two service men are so bored because they have nothing to do, I gave my consent from heart. The quality of Maytag washer and dryer are just great. Period. I bought my first pair in 1990 and they ran for 14 years without ANY problem. I retired them in 2005 because the dryer started making noise so loud that we think it is time to get a new one. The washer was still good but we don't think it would run much longer than the dryer. I know many people used their Maytag appliances for more than 20 years. I was really impressed with their quality.
I bought my second pair of Maytag washer and dryer in June, 2004. Boy, the quality is so pitiful. On the first day, the noise level of the dryer is similar to my first dryer after 10 years. The washer works fine except with some minor shakes that the first dryer never had. Since I didn't buy the top line - Neptune, I think this is normal for what I paid for.
Before the first anniversary of these two appliances, the washer shook so much that I scheduled a Maytag service for examination. However, due to a schedule conflict and the washer still works fine except shaking, I cancelled the appointment. It turned out to be a costly mistake.
The washer continues to shake and only get worse. It started chaning position after each use. I looked up Maytag web site to see if there is any help. I found two FAQ that describe exactly what I am experiencing:
Why does my washer shake and vibrate? Why is my washer shaking/moving across the floor?
Clearly I am not alone. The web site suggested the problem is caused by imbalanced load. But I did a test by running the washer without any load, the washer still shook and moved. Last week, the washer span 90 degrees and pulled the drain hose out from the drain pipe and spilled water all over the laundry room.
I called Maytag and asked them if the problem can be covered by warranty which expired in June, 2005. I pointed out the problem exists before warranty expires and it is actually a very common problem to many customers. They said no and would make no concession. I asked if there is anything they can do to make an unsatisfactory customer happy, they said there is NOTHING they can do.
I asked a local Maytag service person to look at the problem and he said some parts need to be replaced. Fortunately the parts are still covered under warranty. But the labor would cost me $220. I paid $420 for the washer just 18 months ago. I called Maytag again and they still refused to cover a penny of the repair.
Here is my advice to readers:
1) Think twice before buying Maytag washer and dryer. I am told Whirlpool is making better washer and dryer now. The good quality days of Maytag is over. 2) Buy extended warranty. Two service people I talked to made the same suggestion. 3) If there is any issue, no matter how minor it is, have the service staff examine it before the warranty expires.I don't understand why the quality of Maytag becomes so pitiful. The confidence I have on Maytag for 14 years was completely wiped out in 14 months. Sigh!