I have both the Maytag mvwp575gw and the TC5003...
I don't have much time to type.
Before these two top loads, I had a front load LG washer and dryer. I still have the dryer although the control panel is starting to have issues. I had it between 9 and 10 years. I only had two issues with it. The drain pump, which was caused by one of the kids leaving a bobby pin in their pocket. I was able to fix this myself. The other issue was the rotor came loose. It's a big round thing easily accessed by removing the back panel from the washer. Checking this on a regular basis might have prevented this repair. It was under $100 and cost me a little more since I opted to buy from a place that would let me send the part back if it didn't work. I fixed this myself. Mine had a sani wash and I believe it heated the water too. Clothes were clean. Where I think the front loads beat top load (aside from less water and detergent use) is that heated cycle. It took the odor and mildew out of clothes with nothing special other than that cycle. I had no issues with smell. I don't use fabric softener, and I left the door cracked. I use line 2 for large loads and line 1 for small loads of detergent. Where I think the top loads beat front loads, is they can get those comforters and bulky items cleaner simply because they can turn them over exposing all areas with enough water. Some of the LGs have a screw you can turn to add a bit more water. I made sure the water did not come past where one couldn't open the door at any point during the cycle. If I were to get a front load again, it would probably be an LG because of that cycle. I like the idea of the Speed Queen as they've probably nailed the front load, but the cost and lack of heated option give the LG and edge for me. The Speed Queen will likely last longer, but there is a lot more cost difference in the Speed Queen front loads and a good front load of whatever brand you choose. I'm not much on electronics, and front loads in general are more difficult for *me* to fix.
I've have owned the Maytag mvwp575gw for four years, and I've had no issues in my kid and pet friendly home. In my opinion, it is the best overall performance for cleaning and second overall when everything else is considered. The others are correct. Get the 575gw model. You get the 5 yr. parts and labor warranty. This is model is likely sold at your locally owned appliance retailer and NOT the big box store. Ironically, it is less! The main water cycles have tap hot. These cycles wash patterns work as expected.
I also think *I* will be able to find and buy parts less expensive later. There is more on this washer vs the TC5003 that *I* can fix. I am an extra small petite female with no background in appliance repair, sales, etc. It does have some plastic parts compared to the TC5 that may need replacing, but they are easily replaced and not that expensive. It does have a gear box, which is almost a given won't last as long as a transmission. However, they seem to be in the $200 to $300 price range. I think I can replace that. I don't think it's a true commercial washer but definitely one of the better performing and better built residential washers. People having issues with it are using it in commercial settings and looks like with lots of bleach.
The biggest con is the ONLY half tub fill is the Normal cycle. Hot is warm, and warm is cool. This is also the only cycle that has a spray rinse. I find it works well for quick washes or for mixed loads (pants, shorts, T-shirts, etc.). Because the wash time of this cycle is 7 minutes, it isn't really long enough for heavily soiled items. Wash action is too rough for delicates. You can pause the wash at the beginning if you want a presoak. I did modify my setup so I had hot water for the Normal cycle. If you add any options like a presoak or extra rinse, the Normal cycle become a full tub fill with full tub rinse(s) with the water temp chosen.
Wash like items with like items. If you need to wash a pet bed, balance it out with a towel. When used that way, the loads seem to balance themselves out. Take things that don't belong in a washer to the laundry mat.
Key parts in this washer have been upgraded including a thicker belt, bearings, capacitor, etc.
So why did I get the TC5? Some people get go crazy in their old age and buy cars. I decided to see what this washer was all about. I do think there is a point the price will get too high for me or the government will make things worse. My kids are getting older, and I do smaller loads now of delicates, whites, etc.--loads I don't think the Normal cycle of the Maytag works as well or at all for. So I have both washers
. My opinion hasn't changed from when I didn't have it because I had researched both products well and knew what I had and what I was getting. TC5 wasn't available back in 2018. I think the TC5 is best overall for durability, longevity, and just better made. It is second in cleaning performance but still cleans well! Transmission has a 15 yr. part only warranty. I don't think I can replace that, but I would only be paying for labor if it does go out. My absolute favorite cycle is Normal when used with the heavy option. I get hot water, longer wash time, and the spray rinse works well with a lot of loads. It saves water. I honestly think my spin dryer does a better job of wringing out excess residue than a second rinse would for those loads. BTW, spin dryers greatly reduce the dry time. I have both Panda and Ninja. Overall, I prefer the Ninja for quietness and it seems to balance better as well as wring out a little more water.
In reality, I think the TC5 will last a typical family 15 to 20 years. I say this because that seems to be the average life expectancy of even the old, good washers. I know, I had one of the prized Whirlpools (15 years for us. Maybe more if I had known what I do now). In reality, I think the Maytag will last about ten years maybe 15 (with a few repairs). Keep in mind the Maytag doesn't cost as much as the TC5. Many people on this board can get parts for costs and do the labor themselves. This greatly increases life expectancy for both washers!
What I think is key is the bearings. That is what will take both of them out for me and for most people. There is one thing I'm not sure about though. If one changes out that gear case in the Whirlpool, is that also changing out the bearings? If so, I might be able to keep that one going.
I like both washers very well for different reasons. I plan on keeping both. I was fortunate to get the TC5 at a lower cost by waiting, waiting, and waiting and honestly just plain good luck. Otherwise, I probably would not have it. Where I live they are selling TC5 at or above retail in most places. I can still get the Maytag mvwp575gw for $850 (or only $50 more than I paid).
I did opt for the Speed Queen dryer because mine is going out simply because it has a rack option.
Good luck with your decisons. I do agree with the others if you have one of the old, good Maytags, it may be worth it to keep it going. If you want a TC5, you may need to get on a waiting list in some areas anyway.
I'll be interested in what you decide. This was longer than I planned and not enough about the TC5, but I hope that helps.
