First of all, this is my advice to all my customers - DO NOT BUY MAYTAG WASHERS OR DRYERS.
They are awful and they have had numerous problems over the past 10 years that they have dealt with in various ways including one very large class action settlement. You can read a litany of complaints at consumer affairs website here:
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/maytag_wash.html (there are a ton of similar websites to this one with just as many negative reviews - this is how we found all the information about the class action suit for our customers... a simple google search puts all Maytag's dirty laundry

out there for the world to see.)
Next - you live in Elk Grove Village and I happen to know that the people at Abt Electronics in Morton Grove are very helpful and inspite of the fact that you didn't purchase from them, they will likely help you if you ask.
http://www.abt.com/custserv/abtCustServ.php3Chicagoland 847.967.8830
They will at least give you an idea of how to approach your problem if you tell them a bit about it. I'm certain that they've dealt with Maytag washer problems because I've spent many hours dealing with them about it. They will likely be able to advise about dryer problems as well. Abt is a good family owned company - they may decide that it is good business sense to help you so you buy your next appliance from them - it has definitely had that effect on me.
Finally, you may want to talk to Maytag and tell them about your problem. They may agree to take a look at it for no cost because frankly, their company reputation has gone to complete hell. Anyone that remembers the old Maytag repairman ads will find it ironic that the company reputation has gone so incredibly bad lately.
So call people... you might find people willing to help. (and be suspicious that your friend unloaded a bad dryer on you.*)
*sorry for the puns... I swear they just happened.