How to hard reset a Kenmore Elite dishwasher?
To reset the controls on your Kenmore Elite 66513979K017 dishwasher, we use the built-in Cancel/Drain reset: press CANCEL/DRAIN twice, then choose a new cycle and press START/RESUME. This clears the current cycle and restarts the control logic.
Quick reset steps (control reset)
- Open the door slightly to stop the cycle.
- Wait for spraying to stop, then open the door fully.
- Press CANCEL/DRAIN twice to reset the control.
- Select your new cycle and options.
- Press START/RESUME.
For the full button sequence and cycle behavior, follow the owner's manual.
If the dishwasher will not respond
If the keypad seems frozen or the cycle will not restart, these checks usually solve it:
- Close the door firmly; the dishwasher will not run if the door is not latched.
- If water is standing in the tub, let the Cancel/Drain cycle finish (about 2 minutes).
- Check the detergent dispenser; if it opened during the interrupted cycle, refill before restarting.
- If the unit will not drain, inspect the drain path and consider the dishwasher drain pump WPW10348269 if the pump is not running.
What “hard reset” means on this model
On the 66513979K017, a “hard reset” is typically the control reset procedure using CANCEL/DRAIN. It is designed to:
| Situation | What the reset does | What you do next |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong cycle or option selected | Stops the cycle and clears the selection | Pick a new cycle, press START/RESUME |
| Cycle seems stuck | Forces a drain (if needed) and resets the control | Restart with a fresh cycle |
| Water left in tub | Runs a drain sequence | Wait for drain to complete |
Why it matters
Resetting correctly prevents partial washes, standing water, and detergent issues. It also helps you separate a simple control interruption from a real drain or fill problem (inlet valve, drain hose, pump, or control).
Last updated: February 2026
Is Kenmore Elite high end?
Yes. Kenmore Elite is Kenmore’s higher-end line, and the Kenmore Elite 66513979K017 dishwasher is built around premium-style features like an advanced filtration system, efficiency-focused operation, and upgraded rack components compared with basic Kenmore models (feature sets still vary by model).
What “high end” means for this dishwasher
On dishwashers like the 66513979K017, “Elite” typically shows up as better cleaning consistency, quieter operation, and more refined loading features.
Common high-end indicators include:
- More advanced wash filtration and soil handling (the manual references an Ultra Wash filtration system)
- Better drying performance when rinse aid is used correctly
- More adjustable racks and smoother rack movement
- More serviceable, model-specific components (control, pump, heater, sensors)
For the exact features and cycle options on your unit, we recommend checking the 66513979K017 owner's manual.
Parts that reflect a more premium build
If you are comparing models, these parts are good “tells” that the platform is designed for higher performance and convenience:
- Dishwasher upper rack height adjuster W10712394 (adjustability for tall items)
- Dishwasher dishrack roller assembly, lower WPW10195417 (smoother rack travel)
- Dishwasher heater W10703867 (supports water heating and drying)
- Dishwasher turbidity sensor WPW10705575 (helps the dishwasher react to soil level)
Quick comparison: Elite vs basic (typical)
| Feature area | Kenmore Elite (typical) | Basic dishwasher (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning control | Sensor-based adjustments common | Fixed timing more common |
| Loading flexibility | More adjusters and rack features | Fewer adjustments |
| Maintenance | Filtration system emphasized | Simpler filtration |
| Repair parts | More model-specific assemblies | More generic layouts |
Why it matters
If you are deciding whether to repair or upgrade, “Elite” models like the 66513979K017 are often worth repairing because higher-end racks, sensors, and wash components can deliver better results when the dishwasher is maintained and loaded correctly.
Last updated: February 2026
Is it worth repairing a Kenmore dishwasher?
Yes; repairing a Kenmore Elite dishwasher like model 66513979K017 is worth it when the failure is isolated (drain, fill, leak, or rack hardware) and the machine otherwise cleans well. It is less worthwhile when multiple high-cost electrical and motor components fail together.
Quick repair vs. replace checklist
- Dishwashers typically last 10 years; repairs are most cost-effective before that point.
- One clear symptom with one likely part is a good repair candidate.
- Ongoing poor cleaning, heavy rust, or repeated leaks points toward replacement.
- DIY-friendly fixes (racks, seals, hoses) usually deliver the best value.
- Confirm basics first using the 66513979K017 installation guide.
Repairs that are usually worth it on model 66513979K017
- Not draining or standing water: consider the dishwasher drain pump WPW10348269.
- Slow fill or no fill: a failed valve can require the dishwasher water inlet valve W11175771.
- Leak at the bottom of the door: replace the dishwasher door seal, lower WPW10497235.
- Upper rack won’t stay up or sits crooked: the dishwasher upper rack height adjuster W10712394 often fixes it.
What to verify before buying parts
- Door closes fully and latches.
- Breaker or fuse is OK.
- Water supply valve is turned on.
- Drain hose is not kinked; disposer inlet is clear if connected.
Cost and impact comparison
| Situation | Best choice | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Rack rollers/adjusters, minor door leak | Repair | Low cost, quick improvement |
| Single failure (fill valve or drain pump) | Repair | Restores core function |
| Pump and motor plus control issues | Consider replacement | Total cost rises fast |
Why it matters
A targeted repair prevents replacing the whole dishwasher for a single failed component and helps restore normal washing and draining performance.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the code F2E2 on a Kenmore Elite dishwasher?
On a Kenmore Elite dishwasher, error code F2E2 means the user interface (keypad) is not communicating correctly with the main electronic control. On model 66513979K017, this is typically caused by a loose connection, moisture/corrosion at the console connector, or a failing user interface or control board (see the error and reset guidance in your 66513979K017 owner's manual).
What to try first (safe, quick checks)
- Press Cancel/Drain to clear the display, then restart a normal cycle.
- Turn power off at the breaker for 1 minute, then restore power.
- Make sure Control Lock is not enabled; if it is, press and hold CONTROL LOCK for 3 seconds to toggle it off.
- Open the door and check for water or heavy condensation around the top edge of the inner door and console area.
- If the code returns immediately, stop the cycle and move to the deeper checks below.
Deeper causes and what they mean
F2E2 is a “communication” style fault; the dishwasher is basically telling us it cannot reliably read button presses or exchange data between the console and the main control.
Common root causes include:
- Loose or oxidized console connector (intermittent keypad response)
- Moisture intrusion into the console (often after a steamy cycle or a minor leak)
- Failing electronic control (logic board not processing UI signals)
- Damaged wiring in the door harness area (repeated door opening can stress wiring)
Parts that are often involved
If troubleshooting points to an electrical connection or control issue, these model-specific parts are commonly checked or replaced:
| Symptom you notice | Most likely area | Example part on this model |
|---|---|---|
| Buttons don’t respond or respond randomly | User interface/door wiring | Dishwasher wire harness WPW10392485 |
| Code appears mid-cycle, then clears | Intermittent connection | Dishwasher electronic control W10473199 |
Why it matters
When the controls cannot communicate, the dishwasher may stop mid-cycle, fail to drain, or ignore selections, which can leave standing water and poor cleaning results. Fixing the connection or the failed control restores reliable cycle operation.
Last updated: February 2026





