I have a Maytag Ensignia MAV6457AWW washing machine that has a noise in the lower end of the agitator (which sounds like the transmission area) It is a rattling sound like something has broken. It is affecting the performance of the washer, where as it seems like that in the spin cycle the clothes are not fully wringed out. The noise is there in the wash & spin cycle. What are your thoughts on this? Thank you for your time..."

In this case it seems that the main bearings on the shaft is a suspect. However if you have noticed that machine is vibrating when it is running then the motor /drum suspension has to be inspected. Since these fittings are located on the underside of the machine it is important that you look for the noise with a good inspection lamp. Manually turn the motor and drum and listen for the noise, if so the motor bearings, the drum agitator shaft and fittings must be checked. Also the suspensions which include the shock absorbers and springs, the body clamps must be checked to be in correct alignment and not changed in position. Tightening of the mounting is also very important. Finally in most cases a drop of OIL or smear of grease on the moving parts cane solve most issues.
For replacement of bearings check for tips on this visual link: http://www.espares.co.uk/advice/washing-machines/a/7/1401/how-to-replace-the-bearings-on-a-washing-mach.html