The washer lid has to be slammed in order to work

It is a faulty switch about to go bad that interupts the signal for safety. Repair Clinic.com sells them. Enter the make and model number then order it. Easy to change out ususally.

Washer not starting Cycle:
I would have to slam the washer lid before the washer recognized the lid was shut.
What I did to fix:
1. Ref the link below for Schematics
http://blog.kennyluong.com/Tricking-A-Maytag-Bravos-Washer/
2. Looking at the Lid Lock section of the Schematic:
Place a jumper between pins 2 and 3 of J15
This engages the 1st switch (Lid Lock) so, I don't have to slam the lid anymore
3. Since my Lock switch (2nd switch), which is engaged with a magnetic, is working, my work is done.
If you find that your machine is still not starting the cycle, you will need to
replace the Lid Lock mechanism or ref the above link for temp bypass.

Washer not starting Cycle:
I would have to slam the washer lid before the washer recognized the lid was shut.
What I did to fix:
1. Ref the link below for Schematics
http://blog.kennyluong.com/Tricking-A-Maytag-Bravos-Washer/
2. Looking at the Lid Lock section of the Schematic:
Place a jumper between pins 2 and 3 of J15
This engages the 1st switch (Lid switch) so, I don't have to slam the lid anymore
3. Since my Lock switch (2nd switch), which is engaged with a magnetic, is working, my work is done.
If you find that your machine is still not starting the cycle after jumpering pins 2 and 3, you will need to replace the Lid Lock mechanism or ref the above link for temp bypass.

The lid switch is here:To check it flip up the controls and unplug it's quick connectThe connect has 3 wires, a green ground and two other wires, those two other wires go to the switch. Here is a video that show how to replace that lid switch:
I have a manual and some more videos HERE

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is the lid up during the filling process? the new washers will not agitate unless the lid is down. no need to slam the lid.. There is no pin to push the activator switch.. they are controlled with a magnet...

I think it is in the lid switch. If the lid switch is malfunctioning on a maytag top loader it will not start washing. Probably by slamming the lid you are making the connection you need for the time being. It is located at the back underneath the lid in the middle. Follow the link and you will see and diagram and parts associated with your washer. http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/getSubComp.pd?modelNumber=A4910&productCategoryId=0153000&brandId=3048&modelName=MAYTAG-LAUNDRY&diagramPageId=00002&componentDescription=TOP COVER, CONSOLE & LID SWITCH

The symptoms you describe are typical of a lid switch malfunction. The lid switch is usually located on the right hand side under the top cabinet. It is activated by a plastic piece on the lid (called a "Lid Strike") through a small hole on the right side of the wash tub opening. Make sure the lid strike is still on the lid and intact, first. Then, check the mounting screws that hold the lid switch in place (along the right hand side tub rim). Often all that is required is to tighten up the mounting screws and this will realign the lid switch where it can be properly activated by the lid strike. If the lid switch is broken, you can find a replacement at searspartsdirect.com. Just type in your COMPLETE model number and look under the "Washer Top and Lid" heading. The lid switch is listed as item number 22 (part #3355806) and the lid strike will be listed as item number 16 (part #358684). If you do not wish to order online, take the part numbers provided by Sears and go to your nearest appliance parts retailer. These are common parts that most will carry in their store inventory.
This is a very inexpensive repair that you can easily accomplish on your own. I hope you find this information helpful. If you require additional assistance, please let me know. You should be able to access the lid switch on your model washer by the following steps:

1. Unplug the appliance.
2. Insert a putty knife into the seam where the top of the washer meets the front panel, about 2 inches in from each side.
3. Push in on the release tabs while lifting on the washer top. The top panel and lid should lift up. The lid switch should be mounted under the top panel on the right hand side.
4. Locate the lid switch connector and unplug it.
5. Remove the the mounting screws that hold the switch in place, and remove the wiring harness from the mounting clips.
6. Reinstall new switch using the above steps in reverse order.

I hope you find this information helpful. Let me know if you require additional assistance.

PS This is a common problem experienced by this line of washing machines. To prevent future failures, do not slam the washer lid or place anything heavy on the lid. Repeatedly slamming the lid to get it to work, or manipulating the timer can also cause more potential problems.

Did not want to disect the entire machine to get at the lid switch. Couldn't figure out how to get the corner covers off so I figured we would continue to slam the lid until that no longer worked and then "call the guy". Thanks.

There is at least one safety switch activated by the lid.
Depending on machine construction, these are somewhat exposed to water incursion that eventually causes them to fail.
The slamming of the lid is causing the failing switch to make enough contact to allow it to spin.

If you are lucky (I don't know your machine), these may be located toward the rear of the housing where they can be fairly easily replaced.

sounds like your lid switch is loose ..look at the tab that sticks out of the lid and watch where it close's. inspect the switch see if it is loose or broke