Why did Maytag issue a refrigerator recall?

The most recent Maytag refrigerator recall as of 2015 was due to an overheating issue with compressors. The recall was initially issued in 2009 and included refrigerators from other brands in addition to Maytag.

The part responsible for the recall was a relay that turned on the compressor in the refrigerators. If the relay malfunctioned, the compressor overheated and posed a serious fire hazard. Affected units were sold between January of 2001 and January of 2004 under the Maytag, Jenn-Air, Amana, Admiral, Magic Chef, Performa and Crosley brands. Top-freezer and side-by-side models were affected by this issue, but bottom-freezer refrigerators were not recalled.