What is the capacity of the MVWB855DC0?
The Maytag MVWB855DC0 top-load washer has a 5.3 cu. ft. capacity, which is considered an extra-large tub for handling bulky loads like comforters and towels. For cycle details and loading guidance, use the MVWB855DC0 owner's manual.
What 5.3 cu. ft. means for everyday loads
A 5.3 cu. ft. washer basket is designed for larger, fewer loads per week when you load correctly.
- Wash bulky items (blankets, comforters) one at a time for best balance
- Load loosely; do not pack items down
- Distribute items evenly around the washplate/impeller
- Use HE detergent only; too many suds can slow or stop draining and spinning
- Expect the washer to “sense” the load with short spins before adding water (normal operation)
Quick reference
| Spec | MVWB855DC0 value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5.3 cu. ft. | Helps you size loads and choose cycles |
| Washer type | Top-load, high-efficiency | Uses sensing and controlled water levels |
Why it matters
Capacity affects cleaning performance and spin results. Overloading can lead to unbalanced spinning and wetter loads, while underloading can reduce proper item contact during agitation. Following the loading and detergent guidance in the manual helps prevent common issues like poor draining, excess suds, and uneven spin.
Last updated: February 2026
How do I reset the lid lock on a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag MVWB855DC0, the lid lock usually “resets” by stopping the washer safely and restarting the cycle. Press START/Pause/Unlock to pause; once the basket stops moving, the lid unlocks (it can take several minutes if it was spinning), then press START/Pause/Unlock again to resume.
Quick reset steps (MVWB855DC0)
- Press START/Pause/Unlock once to pause the cycle.
- Wait for all washer movement to stop; the lid unlocks after it is safe.
- If you want to cancel the cycle, press and hold START/Pause/Unlock for 3 seconds.
- Close the lid firmly.
- Press START/Pause/Unlock to restart the cycle.
- Avoid opening the lid during Sensing; opening it restarts the sensing process.
For the exact button behavior and cycle status light meanings, use the MVWB855DC0 owner's manual.
What “Lid locked” means on this washer
The MVWB855DC0 locks the lid for load sensing and spinning. When you press START/Pause/Unlock, the washer performs a quick lid lock self-test (you may hear a click and see a brief unlock, then it locks again) before it begins sensing spins.
Normal vs. problem symptoms
| What you see | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Lid stays locked right after a high-speed spin | Normal safety delay | Wait several minutes, then press START/Pause/Unlock |
| Lid will not lock and cycle will not start | Lid not fully closed or latch not engaging | Close lid firmly; restart |
| Lid locks but washer stops or won’t run | Control is pausing or detecting an issue | Cancel (hold 3 sec), then restart cycle |
When a part is likely needed
If the lid never locks, never unlocks after stopping, or the washer will not run with the lid closed, the lock mechanism can be failing.
Common related parts for this model include:
- Washer lid lock assembly W10810403
- Console assembly W10914560 (if the control is not responding to the button)
Why it matters
The lid lock is a safety system. The washer will not agitate or spin normally unless it confirms the lid is closed and locked, and it will delay unlocking until the basket stops.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
For Maytag top-load washers like model MVWB855DC0, the most common customer complaints are “won’t drain or spin,” “won’t fill,” and loud clicking/metallic noises. These issues are often caused by load balance/overloading, excess HE detergent suds, or a restriction in the drain system; they can also point to a failing drain pump, lid lock, or inlet valve.
Most common symptoms and what they usually mean
- Washer not draining/spinning; loads still wet: small items stuck in the pump or between the basket and tub, too much detergent causing suds, or a drain hose installation issue.
- Washer won’t run or fill: water supply problem (both faucets must be on), clogged inlet screens, or a control not sensing proper fill.
- Clicking or metallic noises: washer not level, feet not firmly on the floor, unbalanced load, or objects caught in the drain system.
- Odors: monthly maintenance not being done as recommended, or using the wrong amount/type of detergent.
- Poor cleaning or tangling: tightly packed loads, adding more water, or using the wrong cycle.
Quick checks we recommend first (MVWB855DC0)
- Confirm you are using HE (High Efficiency) detergent and measure carefully.
- Load items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate (avoid tight packing).
- Do not add extra water; this model senses load size and adds the correct amount.
- Verify the washer is level and the feet are locked to reduce noise and vibration.
- If the load is still wet, run Rinse & Spin after canceling the cycle to clear suds.
Parts that commonly solve these problems
| Symptom | Common part to check | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t drain or leaves clothes wet | Washer drain pump WPW10581874 | Pumps water out during drain/spin |
| Won’t start or lid won’t unlock/lock | Washer lid lock assembly W10810403 | Safety interlock for operation |
| Won’t fill or fills slowly | Washer water inlet valve W11165546 | Controls hot/cold water entering |
Why it matters
Drain, fill, and balance problems can stop a cycle mid-wash, leave clothes soaking wet, or create loud vibration. Catching the cause early helps prevent secondary damage to the drive system and reduces repeat cycle failures.
For model-specific operating tips and troubleshooting steps, use the owner's manual.
Last updated: February 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Maytag washer?
Maytag washers typically last 10 to 13 years with normal household use. Your Maytag MVWB855DC0 can reach the high end of that range when it is installed level, loaded correctly, and maintained using the detergent and cycle guidance in the owner's manual.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
Most washer life is determined by how hard the drive system, suspension, and draining components have to work.
- Loads and frequency: daily heavy loads shorten life faster than moderate weekly use
- Overloading and tight packing: increases strain and can lead to out-of-balance spinning
- Detergent habits: too much detergent can cause excess suds that slow draining and spinning
- Installation and leveling: an unlevel washer can vibrate, click, or bang and wear parts faster
- Water quality and debris: grit, coins, and small items can stress the drain system
Maintenance habits that extend washer life
These are the highest-impact habits for a high-efficiency top-load washer like the MVWB855DC0:
- Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent and measure it carefully
- Load items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate (not packed down)
- Choose cycles that match fabric type and add Extra Rinse when needed
- If you get heavy suds, run Rinse & Spin and do not add more detergent
- Keep the washer level so all feet are firmly on the floor
Parts that commonly wear first (and why)
If performance drops (no spin, wet loads, or draining issues), these parts are often involved:
| Symptom | Common area | Example part for MVWB855DC0 |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t drain or leaves clothes wet | Drain system | Washer drain pump WPW10581874 |
| Won’t fill or fills slowly | Water supply valve | Washer water inlet valve W11165546 |
| Lid won’t lock or cycle won’t start | Safety interlock | Washer lid lock assembly W10810403 |
Why it matters
A washer that is overloaded, unlevel, or over-sudsing has to work harder to drain and spin; that extra strain shortens the life of the drive and suspension components and increases the chance of repeat breakdowns.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it worth repairing a Maytag washing machine?
Yes, repairing a Maytag MVWB855DC0 washer is worth it when the problem is a common, parts-replaceable failure (drain, fill, lid lock, suspension) and the total repair cost stays well below the price of a comparable new washer. It is also worth it when your washer is still within the warranty terms shown in the owner's manual.
Quick decision checklist
- Choose repair when the washer still fills, drains, and powers on, but has one clear symptom.
- Choose repair when the fix is a single-part job (valve, pump, lid lock, suspension).
- Choose repair when you have not had repeated major repairs in the last 12 months.
- Choose replacement when the tub or drive system damage is extensive and labor is high.
- Choose replacement when rust, leaks from the outer tub, or multiple failures show up together.
Common MVWB855DC0 repairs that are usually worth it
These are frequent top-load washer fixes that typically restore normal operation without replacing the entire machine:
| Symptom | Likely area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Won't drain or leaves water in tub | Drain system | Washer drain pump WPW10581874 |
| Won't fill or fills slowly | Water inlet system | Washer water inlet valve W11165546 |
| Lid won't lock or cycle won't start | Lid lock system | Washer lid lock assembly W10810403 |
| Excessive shaking or banging | Suspension | Damper assembly, tub suspension (set of 4-includes suspension bushings and suspension balls) W11130356 |
Cost and age rules we use
- If the repair is under about 50% of the cost of a comparable new washer, repair makes sense.
- If the washer is under about 8 years old, repair is typically the better value.
- If the repair involves multiple major assemblies at once (drive, tub, controls), replacement often becomes the better investment.
Why it matters
A targeted repair on the MVWB855DC0 often fixes the root cause (drain, fill, lid lock, suspension) and prevents repeat cycle failures, long drain times, and out-of-balance spinning. Checking the warranty section in the owner's manual also helps you avoid paying for a repair that may be covered.
Last updated: February 2026





