What is the capacity of Maytag mtw5700tq0?
The Maytag MTW5700TQ0 top-load washer has a 3.2 cu. ft. wash basket capacity, which is a common mid-size capacity for traditional agitator washers. For cycle and load-size guidance that matches this model, use the MTW5700TQ0 owner's manual.
What 3.2 cu. ft. means for everyday loads
A 3.2 cu. ft. washer is designed for typical household loads without overfilling the tub.
- Handles most daily mixed loads comfortably
- Works well for towels and jeans in moderate quantities
- Bulky items (comforters, large blankets) may need one item at a time
- Best cleaning happens when clothes can circulate around the agitator
Quick load guidance (practical sizing)
Use this as a starting point; adjust based on fabric thickness and how freely items move.
| Load type | Typical fit in 3.2 cu. ft. | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed everyday clothes | Medium to large | Keep items below the top row of holes |
| Bath towels | Medium | Add towels gradually to avoid imbalance |
| Bulky items | Small | Wash one bulky item with a few small items |
Why it matters
Capacity affects cleaning and spinning performance. Overloading a 3.2 cu. ft. tub can reduce agitation, leave detergent residue, and increase out-of-balance spinning, which can stress suspension components such as the washer suspension spring WP63907.
Tips to get the best performance from this capacity
- Choose the correct water level for the load size
- Use HE detergent if your detergent label calls for it; measure carefully
- Distribute items evenly around the basket before starting
- If the washer will not spin with the lid open, check the washer lid switch assembly WP8318084
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with Maytag washer top loader?
For the Maytag MTW5700TQ0 top-load washer, the most common customer-reported problem is spin-related issues (won’t spin, won’t drain fully, or clothes come out wet). The usual causes are a lid switch problem, a draining restriction or failed pump, or a worn drive system component.
Most common symptoms and what they usually point to
- Washer won’t spin at all: lid switch not sensing the lid closed, drive system not engaging
- Clothes still wet after cycle: slow drain, partial spin, unbalanced load
- Won’t drain or drains slowly: clogged pump or hose, failed drain pump
- Loud banging or walking: out-of-balance load, weak suspension springs
- Agitator not moving correctly: worn agitator dogs or agitator drive parts
For model-specific operating checks and cycle behavior, use the MTW5700TQ0 owner’s manual.
Quick checks we recommend before replacing parts
- Redistribute the load (especially bulky items) and rerun a spin.
- Confirm the lid closes firmly; if the washer stops when you lift the lid, the lid switch circuit is critical for spin.
- Check draining: listen for the pump during drain; inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
- Level the washer: an unlevel cabinet increases vibration and can reduce spin performance.
- Use the right detergent amount: oversudsing can interfere with drain and spin.
Parts that commonly fix these problems on MTW5700TQ0
| Symptom | Common fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t spin / stops when lid opens | Lid switch not closing | Washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 |
| Won’t drain / wet clothes | Drain pump weak or jammed | Washer drain pump WP3363394 |
| Poor agitation / top agitator slips | Agitator dogs worn | Agitator dog 80040 |
Why it matters
Spin and drain problems are often connected; if the washer cannot drain fast enough, it cannot reach full spin speed. Fixing the root cause helps prevent repeat wet loads, long cycle times, and excess vibration.
Last updated: January 2026
Is it worth repairing a Maytag MTW5700TQ0 washer?
Yes, repairing a Maytag MTW5700TQ0 washer is worth it when the fix is a common, lower-cost failure (drain, lid switch, agitation) and the tub and drive system are in good shape; it is usually not worth it when the repair involves major drive or basket components and labor approaches the cost of replacement.
Quick decision checklist
- Choose repair when the washer still fills, drains, and spins most of the time, and the problem is isolated.
- Choose replacement when you have repeated leaks, loud grinding, severe vibration, or multiple symptoms at once.
- Repair is typically a good value for “no drain,” “won’t start,” or “won’t agitate” issues.
- Replacement is typically a better value for major mechanical failures (gear case, basket drive, drive tube) plus labor.
- Use the troubleshooting and part diagrams in the MTW5700TQ0 owner’s manual to confirm symptoms before ordering parts.
Common repairs that are usually worth it
These are frequent, straightforward fixes on top-load Maytag washers like MTW5700TQ0:
- Won’t drain or leaves water behind: check the washer drain pump WP3363394
- Won’t start or stops when the lid opens: check the washer lid switch assembly WP8318084
- Agitator slips or doesn’t move clothes well: check the agitator dog 80040
- Agitator loose: inspect the washer agitator bolt WP358237
Cost-to-value guide (rule of thumb)
| Repair situation | Typical value call | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Single part failure, washer otherwise solid | Repair | Restores function with minimal risk |
| Multiple symptoms or repeated breakdowns | Replace | Higher chance another part fails soon |
| Major drive/basket work plus labor | Replace | Cost and downtime rise quickly |
Why it matters
A targeted repair can extend the life of the MTW5700TQ0 for years, but major drivetrain work often turns into a chain of related parts (clutch, drive block, gear case) and the total cost can exceed the washer’s practical value.
Last updated: January 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Maytag washer?
Most Maytag washers average 10 to 13 years of service life; with consistent care, many run 14 years or longer. For your Maytag MTW5700TQ0 top-load washer, lifespan depends most on load size, installation (leveling), and how quickly you address wear items.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
A washer’s life is usually limited by wear in the drive and drain systems, plus vibration-related stress.
- Overloading speeds up wear on the drive system and suspension
- Frequent unbalanced loads increase stress on the basket, springs, and drive block
- Hard water can contribute to residue buildup and odors
- Slow draining strains the drain pump and can leave water in the tub
- Delayed repairs often turn a small issue into a larger failure
Parts that commonly influence longevity
If performance changes, these parts are often involved on a top-load washer like the MTW5700TQ0:
- Washer drain pump WP3363394 (draining problems, humming, leaks)
- Washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 (won’t spin or drain when the lid isn’t sensed as closed)
- Clutch 285785 (weak spin, burning smell, intermittent spin)
- Washer suspension spring WP63907 (excessive shaking, banging)
Quick “repair vs. replace” guide
Use this as a practical way to judge whether extending life makes sense.
| Situation | What it usually means | Typical next step |
|---|---|---|
| Washer won’t drain | Drain restriction or pump issue | Check hose, then test/replace pump |
| Won’t spin but fills/agitate | Lid switch or drive issue | Verify lid switch, then clutch/drive parts |
| Loud banging on spin | Load balance or suspension wear | Re-level, then inspect springs |
| Water leak underneath | Hose, pump, or tub seal area | Inspect for drips during fill/drain |
Maintenance that adds years
These habits reduce strain on the motor, gearcase, basket, and pump.
- Keep loads evenly distributed; wash bulky items with similar items
- Use the right amount of HE detergent to reduce suds and residue
- Leave the lid open after use to help the tub dry and reduce odor
- Periodically check fill and drain hoses for bulges, cracks, or seepage
- Level the washer to minimize vibration (especially before high-speed spin)
Why it matters
A Maytag washer that is kept level, not overloaded, and repaired promptly typically reaches the upper end of the 10 to 13-year range because the drive and suspension components avoid repeated shock and overheating.
For model-specific operating and care guidance, follow the MTW5700TQ0 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026





