Repair help > Dishwasher repair > Dishwasher repair guides

April 1, 2014

How to replace a dishwasher lower spray arm

By Lyle Weischwill

This DIY repair guide gives instructions on how to replace a lower spray arm in a dishwasher. The lower spray arm attaches to the pump outlet and sprays water throughout the dishwasher to improve cleaning. If the lower spray arm cracks or splits, you may notice your dishes are not getting clean, or you might find water leaking at the bottom of the dishwasher door. Replace a broken lower spray arm using the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use this procedure to replace the lower spray arm in some Kenmore, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Amana, Maytag and JennAir dishwashers. You also can use the same basic steps to replace the lower spray arm in some GE, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Samsung and LG dishwashers.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

None

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Remove the bottom dishrack
Open the dishwasher door and pull out the bottom dishrack.
Pull out the bottom dishrack.
02.
Remove the lower spray arm
Rotate the mounting bracket on the bottom of the lower spray wash arm a 1/4-turn counter-clockwise to release it from the pump outlet. Pull the spray wash arm up and off of the pump outlet.
Rotate the mounting bracket.
Remove the spray arm.
03.
Install the new dishwasher spray arm
Position the new lower wash spray arm on the top of the pump outlet. Press it down so it seats completely on the pump outlet.
Rotate the locking bracket a 1/4-turn clockwise to lock the arm in place. Tug up on the lower wash spray arm to make sure it's seated and locked in place.
04.
Reinstall the lower dishrack
Slide the lower dishrack back into the dishwasher.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms common to all dishwashers

Choose a symptom to see related dishwasher repairs.

Not cleaning dishes

Main causes: improper loading, low water temperature, improper detergent dosage, detergent dispenser failure, spray arm or pump problems

Can't adjust rack height

Main cause: damaged rack height adjuster

Won't fill

Main causes: water supply problem, stuck overfill float, clogged water inlet valve screen, water inlet valve failure

Dishes don't get dry

Main causes: not using rinse aid, rinse aid dispenser failure, broken heating element, malfunctioning vent, drying fan failure

Other symptoms

Main causes: broken door spring, detergent dispenser failure, cabinet mounting brackets loose or broken

Won't start

Main causes: light switch beside the sink turned off, lack of power, bad dishwasher door switch, control system failure, wiring problem

Leaking

Main causes: damaged or stuck spray arm, leaking door seal, damaged door hinge, leaky heating element water seal, cracked water supply line

Stops mid-cycle

Main causes: broken door latch, tripped circuit breaker, broken heating element, faulty vent fan, sensor failure, control system problem

Won't drain

Main causes: clogged kitchen sink drain, clogged drain hose, drain check valve damaged, drain pump failure, control system problem

Repair guides common to all dishwashers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your dishwasher.

October 1, 2016

How to replace a dishwasher vent and fan assembly

By Lyle Weischwill

If the control panel goes blank, the fan could be to blame. Replace the vent and fan assembly using these steps.

Repair difficulty

Time required

30 minutes or less

April 1, 2014

How to replace a dishwasher door outer panel

By Lyle Weischwill

If your dishwasher door is dented or you want it to match your cabinets or other appliances, this guide shows how to replace the dishwasher outer door panel.

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

April 1, 2014