How do I reset the lid lock on a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag LAT9806AAE, there is no electronic “lid lock reset” sequence like newer digital washers. This model uses a safety lid switch; if the washer will not agitate or spin, close the lid and restart the cycle, then do a simple power reset by unplugging the washer for 5 minutes.
Quick reset steps (LAT9806AAE)
- Turn the cycle control knob to OFF.
- Make sure the lid is fully closed.
- Unplug the washer (or switch the breaker off) for 5 minutes.
- Restore power.
- Select a cycle and pull the knob out to start.
- If your model has push buttons, make sure they are fully depressed.
What to check if it still will not run
This washer is designed not to agitate or spin unless the lid is closed. It also has a lid switch failure detector that can stop operation for safety.
- Confirm the lid closes firmly (no laundry caught under the lid).
- Check the outlet and home breaker or fuse.
- If the washer fills but will not agitate or spin, suspect the lid switch circuit.
- If the washer stops mid-cycle, redistribute an uneven load and restart.
- If you are comfortable inspecting parts, check the lid switch mounting and wiring.
Common symptoms and the most likely cause
| Symptom | What it usually points to | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Fills but will not agitate or spin | Lid not closed or lid switch issue | Reseat lid; try reset; inspect lid switch |
| Stops and will not restart | Pause/soak period or safety stop | Wait briefly; then restart with lid closed |
| No response at all | Power supply issue | Check breaker/fuse; verify outlet power |
Parts that commonly solve “lid won’t run” problems
If the lid is closed and power is good, the most common fix is replacing the lid switch.
Why it matters
The lid switch is a built-in safety device. If the washer senses the lid is open (or the switch is failing), it prevents agitation and spinning to reduce the risk of injury.
For model-specific operating steps and troubleshooting, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the capacity of the LAT9806AAE?
The Maytag LAT9806AAE washer has a 3.2 cu. ft. tub capacity. That capacity helps you estimate load size, detergent amount, and water use so you get good cleaning without overloading the drive system.
How to use that capacity day to day
- Load loosely to the top of the basket, not packed down.
- Keep bulky items (blankets, jackets) to smaller loads to maintain proper agitation.
- If the washer struggles to start agitating or spinning, reduce the load size.
- Use the water level that matches the load; this model’s manual lists different fill levels and approximate gallons.
- For cycle and load guidance specific to your washer, follow the LAT9806AAE owner's manual.
Water use reference (why capacity and water level go together)
Your LAT9806AAE uses different amounts of water depending on the selected water level. Here is a quick reference based on the manual’s “Water Use” section:
| Water level setting | Approx. water use (gallons) |
|---|---|
| Mini | ~24 to 27 |
| Small | ~28 to 31 |
| Medium | ~32 to 35 |
| Large | ~36 to 39 |
| Super | ~40 to 43 |
Why it matters
A 3.2 cu. ft. tub is designed to balance cleaning action and spin performance. Overloading can lead to poor wash results, out-of-balance spinning, and extra wear on mechanical parts such as the belt and motor mount system.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
For the Maytag LAT9806AAE washer, the most common day-to-day complaints are “won’t spin/drain,” “won’t fill,” and “won’t agitate.” In many cases, the cause is simple: a lid not fully closed, a power issue, or a kinked/plugged hose; the washer is designed not to agitate or spin with the lid open.
Most common symptoms and what to check first
- Won’t spin or drain: confirm the lid is closed, then check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
- Won’t fill: make sure both faucets are fully on; straighten inlet hoses; clean the inlet hose screens.
- Won’t agitate: verify the cycle is selected and the control knob is pulled out to start; close the lid.
- Stops during spin: redistribute an uneven load, then restart the cycle.
- Leaks or overflow: inspect hoses and clamps for looseness and cracks.
Quick troubleshooting checklist (in order)
- Plug the power cord into a working outlet; reset the breaker or replace the fuse if needed.
- Set the control to the correct cycle and pull the knob out to start.
- Close the lid firmly (this model will not agitate or spin with the lid open).
- Check hoses:
- Inlet hoses: straighten and clean the small screens.
- Drain hose: straighten and clear restrictions.
- If the washer stopped mid-spin, redistribute the load and resume.
Parts that commonly solve “won’t spin” complaints
If the basics check out, these model-matched parts are frequent fixes for spin-related symptoms:
| Symptom | Common cause | Part to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t spin, acts “dead” when lid closes | Lid safety circuit not closing | Lid switch W10820036 |
| Spins weakly, squeals, or slips under load | Worn drive belt | Washer drive belt 12112425 |
| Drains slowly or leaks at the outlet | Cracked or restricted drain hose | Drain hose WP22003410 |
Why it matters
On the LAT9806AAE, the lid safety design prevents agitation and spinning with the lid open. That means a lid closure problem can look like a major failure, even when the fix is as simple as correcting the lid closure or replacing a lid switch.
For model-specific operating steps and the “Before you call” checks (fill, agitate, spin, drain), use the LAT9806AAE owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026





