Dishwasher: Why won't my dishwasher start?
You fill the dishwasher with dishes and shut the door, but the dishwasher doesn't start. To troubleshoot the problem, start by checking the door switch because the cycle won't start with a broken door switch. Watch our dishwasher won't start video for step-by-step instructions on testing the door switch.
If the door switch is okay, a damaged control panel, failed user interface control or broken electronic control board can prevent the dishwasher from starting. If your dishwasher uses a mechanical timer control, a failed timer can prevent the cycle from starting. Some dishwashers won't start if they don't fill with water. Our dishwasher not filling video provides troubleshooting tips for this problem.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR DISHWASHER PROBLEM
Replace the dishwasher door latch assembly
The dishwasher won't start if the door isn't completely shut and latched. If the door doesn't latch shut, replace the latch mechanism. Even if the door latches fully, a problem with micro-switch in the door latch/switch assembly could keep the dishwasher from starting; in that case, replace the micro-switch.
Dishwasher door latch assembly
How to replace a dishwasher door latch assembly
One reason a dishwasher won’t start could be a broken dishwasher latch assembly—the assembly includes the latch itself and a microswitch. You can replace the latch assembly yourself in about half an hour, following the steps in this repair guide and video.
Replace the dishwasher control panel
When the control panel, also called the control console, becomes visibly loose or damaged, replace it. A stuck button can also cause the dishwasher to become unresponsive. A light may flash constantly on the control panel when a button is stuck.
Dishwasher control panel
How to replace a dishwasher control panel
If the dishwasher buttons stick or don't work, the dishwasher control panel could be the problem. This DIY repair guide shows you how to replace the control panel on your dishwasher in just 30 minutes.
Replace the dishwasher user interface control
The user interface control houses the selection buttons and display information such as the remaining cycle time. A defective user interface control won't light up or won't respond when you press its buttons. Because it's difficult to pinpoint the user interface control as the source of the problem when it won't light up or respond when you press its buttons, refer to the tech sheet for diagnostic tests (its' usually behind the service panel below the door) or have a service technician test the control. Replace the user interface control if it's defective.
Dishwasher user interface control
How to replace a dishwasher user interface control
The dishwasher user interface lets you select the cycle options and start the dishwasher. Pinpointing a problem with the user interface can be tricky, and usually requires ruling out other problems. If you've determined the user interface failed, you can replace it easily following the instructions in this DIY repair guide and video.
Replace the dishwasher electronic control board
The electronic control board runs all dishwasher functions. If the electronic control board is getting voltage, but not operating properly, it should be replaced.
Dishwasher electronic control board
How to replace a dishwasher electronic control board
Because the dishwasher electronic control board runs every stage of the dishwashing cycle, it's hard to know if the problem is the board or something it controls. If you or a repair technician determines the dishwasher electronic control board is faulty, this repair guide and video show how to install a new one.
Replace the dishwasher timer
The timer controls the electro-mechanical components in the dishwasher such as the wash pump, drain pump, inlet water valve and heating element. The timer also advances the control knob on the control panel. Replace the timer if it fails to start and stop the components properly or fails to advance the control knob.
Dishwasher timer
How to replace a dishwasher timer
If a dishwasher isn't advancing through the wash, rinse, drain or dry cycles, chances are the dishwasher timer is to blame. This easy-to-follow repair guide shows you how to safely complet dishwasher timer replacement yourself.
Symptoms common to all dishwashers
Repair guides common to all dishwashers
If the dishwasher door doesn't click shut, a broken door latch is a likely cause. Follow these instructions to replace it yourself.
The user interface control houses the selection buttons and display. If it fails, you can't select the cycle and settings. Follow these instructions to replace it yourself.
A completely dead control panel often indicates that the thermal fuse on the electronic control board is blown; follow these steps to replace a blown thermal fuse in your dishwasher.
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