Maytag MAV8551AWW washer/dryer Parts

For Maytag model MAV8551AWW, the exact tub capacity (in cubic feet) is not stated in the model’s documentation we have available, so we can’t confirm a single official number. The most reliable way is to calculate capacity by measuring the inside of the wash basket and using the volume formula; see the MAV8551AWW user manual for loading guidance.

Option 1: Find capacity by measuring the tub (most accurate)

1. Unplug the washer for safety.
2. Open the lid and measure the inside diameter of the basket (in inches).
3. Measure the usable depth from the bottom of the basket to the top row of holes (in inches). The manual notes loading “up to the top row of holes” for a maximum load.
4. Convert inches to feet (divide by 12).
5. Calculate:

• Radius (ft) = (diameter ÷ 2) ÷ 12
• Depth (ft) = depth ÷ 12
• Capacity (cu. ft.) = π × radius² × depth

Option 2: Use the model number to confirm published specs

If you have a spec sheet or product listing for MAV8551AWW, it may list capacity. Use the full model number from the washer’s identification label (commonly on the back left of the control panel on this series) to avoid mix-ups.

• Confirm the model number is MAV8551AWW (not a similar MAV series)
• Match the series and revision letters exactly
• Compare multiple sources if numbers differ

Quick reference table (for your measurements)

What you measure	Where to measure	Why it matters
Inside diameter	Across the basket interior	Sets the radius for the volume formula
Usable depth	Bottom of basket to top row of holes	Reflects real “max load” space
Units	Inches, then convert to feet	Prevents incorrect cubic-foot results

Why it matters

Capacity affects how much detergent to use, how full to load the basket, and how well items circulate. Overfilling can reduce cleaning performance and increase wear on drive components.

Last updated: January 2026

A specific “expected lifespan” for the Maytag MAV8551AWW cannot be confirmed from model-specific documentation; the MAV8551AWW user manual focuses on operation, care, and troubleshooting rather than a service-life rating. In practice, how long it lasts depends most on installation, load habits, and timely repair of wear parts.

What we can confirm for MAV8551AWW

The model’s guidance is centered on safe use and maintenance, which directly impacts longevity:

• Use correct loading and water level to reduce strain on the drive system
• Turn off water faucets after washing to reduce leak risk
• Check inlet hoses periodically and replace when worn
• Clean dispensers and address residue or oversudsing
• Use the “Before you call” troubleshooting steps to correct small issues early

Common factors that shorten washer life

• Chronic overloading or tightly packed loads
• Frequent out-of-balance spinning and “walking”
• Restricted water flow (clogged inlet screens, kinked hoses)
• Drain problems (kinked drain hose, siphoning, slow evacuation)
• Ignoring early symptoms (burning smell, squealing, intermittent spin)

Parts that often matter when symptoms show up

If your washer will not agitate or spin with the lid closed, the safety interlock is a common checkpoint; the washer lid switch WP22003804 is one component in that system.

Symptom	First checks	Possible next step
Won’t spin/agitate	Lid fully closed, cycle set correctly	Inspect lid switch and actuator parts
Slow fill	Faucets fully open, hoses not kinked	Clean/replace inlet screens or hoses
Won’t drain	Drain hose height and kinks	Check drain hose routing and restrictions

Why it matters

Instead of relying on a generic “years” estimate, using the MAV8551AWW care and troubleshooting guidance helps you prevent avoidable wear and decide when a repair (belt, valve, switch) is worthwhile.

Last updated: January 2026

On the Maytag MAV8551AWW, there isn’t an electronic “lid lock reset” like newer digital washers use. This model relies on a mechanical lid switch; the practical reset is stopping the cycle, returning the timer to OFF, then restarting with the lid fully closed (see the MAV8551AWW user manual).

Reset steps for MAV8551AWW (timer-dial washer)

• Push the control dial in to stop the washer (OFF).
• Wait about 30 seconds.
• Open the lid, then close it firmly (do not slam).
• Turn the dial to the desired cycle.
• Pull the dial out to start.
• If you opened the lid during spin, close the lid and pull the dial out; the washer should resume where it left off if the lid switch is working.

If it still will not spin or agitate

On MAV8551AWW, a “lid locked” complaint is often the washer refusing to run because it is not sensing the lid as closed. These checks are the most common and model-appropriate:

• Make sure the lid is closing squarely (no laundry caught under the lid).
• Listen for the lid switch being actuated when the lid closes.
• Inspect the lid switch actuator/plunger for damage or misalignment.
• If the washer fills but will not agitate or spin, suspect the lid switch circuit first.

Parts that commonly relate to this symptom

What to check	What it does	When to suspect it
Washer lid switch WP22003804	Senses the lid closed so the washer can agitate and spin	Washer fills but will not agitate/spin
Washer lid switch plunger WP22002754	Physically actuates the lid switch when the lid closes	Lid closes but the switch is not being triggered

Why it matters

The lid switch is a key safety device on MAV8551AWW. If it does not reliably detect a closed lid, the washer can stop or refuse to spin, which can look like a “lid lock” issue even though this model does not use an electronic lock.

Last updated: January 2026