How to identify Kenmore dishwasher model?
To identify your Kenmore dishwasher model, we look for the model and serial tag on the inside edge of the door or on the tub frame just inside the opening. For Kenmore Elite model 66512773K313, the tag is typically visible when the door is open; match the full model number exactly.
Where to look on a Kenmore dishwasher
Check these common tag locations (use a flashlight and wipe away any residue):
- Along the left or right inner door frame (door jamb area)
- On the tub rim near the latch side
- On the tub wall near the front opening (left or right side)
- Near the bottom edge of the door opening, just above the toe kick
- On older units, a faded sticker may be tucked under the lip of the tub opening
What the model number looks like (and why it matters)
Kenmore model numbers are usually a long string of numbers and letters. For parts lookup and troubleshooting, we use the entire model number, including any suffix.
| What to record | Example | Why we need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | 66512773K313 | Ensures parts fit your exact dishwasher |
| Serial number | (varies) | Helps identify production run and revisions |
Tips if the label is hard to read
If the sticker is worn or smeared, these steps usually make it readable:
- Clean gently with a damp cloth and a drop of dish soap
- Take a close-up photo and zoom in
- Try viewing from an angle with a flashlight (glare can reveal faint print)
- Write down every character; don’t guess missing digits
Why it matters
Using the correct model number prevents ordering the wrong dishwasher parts (like a door latch, rack adjuster, or drain pump) and helps match the right troubleshooting steps in the documentation.
For diagrams and model-specific details, use the 66512773K313 owner’s manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What are common problems with Kenmore dishwashers?
Common problems on the Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66512773K313 include not starting, poor drying, cycles that run too long, detergent not dispensing, and draining issues (water left in the tub). Many of these are caused by door-latch problems, loading interference, power interruptions, or drain hose and disposer restrictions; see the 66512773K313 owner's manual for model-specific checks.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Won’t start or stops mid-cycle: door not fully latched, Start/Resume timing, or power issue
- Detergent remains in dispenser: dispenser blocked by dishes, tablet dropping to tub bottom
- Water won’t drain / water remains in tub: kinked drain hose, disposer knockout plug not removed, drain obstruction
- Not drying well: rinse aid not used, cycle/option selection, incoming water temperature too low
- Hard water residue or cloudy glassware: hard water minerals, low rinse aid, detergent mismatch
- Odors: filter and interior need cleaning, standing water from partial drains
Quick checks we recommend (in order)
- Confirm the door is fully closed and latched; large items can interfere with the wash system and prevent a proper latch.
- If the Start/Resume light is blinking, press START/RESUME and close the door within 3 seconds.
- Check the home breaker/fuse and that the dishwasher has power.
- If it won’t drain, inspect the drain path:
- Drain hose routing for kinks
- Food disposer inlet for a knockout plug (if connected)
- Obstructions in the drain/disposer
- For spotting and poor drying, use rinse aid and verify incoming hot water is about 120°F (49°C).
Parts that commonly fix everyday issues
| Symptom | Part to inspect on 66512773K313 | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Door won’t latch or unit won’t start | Dishwasher door latch WPW10653840 | Start/Resume and cycle operation |
| Water left in tub | Dishwasher drain pump WPW10531320 | Draining performance |
| Upper rack won’t move smoothly | Dishwasher rack adjuster W10712395 | Rack height and tracking |
Why it matters
Catching the root cause early prevents repeat cycle failures, standing water odors, and poor cleaning. Simple fixes like correcting loading, restoring proper drain flow, and using rinse aid often solve the problem without major repairs.
Last updated: January 2026
Why is the start button not working on my Kenmore Ultra Wash quiet guard?
On the Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66512773K313, the Start/Resume button usually won’t respond when the controls are locked, the door isn’t fully latched, or the cycle is paused waiting for you to press Start/Resume again after the door was opened. Use the steps below to restore normal starting.
Quick checks that fix most “won’t start” issues
- Control Lock is on: If Locked is lit, all buttons are disabled and the dishwasher cannot start.
- Door not latched: Close the door firmly until it latches; loading issues can prevent a full latch.
- Start/Resume is blinking: Press START/RESUME and close the door within 3 seconds.
- Delay start is set: If you opened the door for more than 5 seconds during a delay, you must press START/RESUME again.
- Power issue: Confirm the breaker is on and the dishwasher has power.
How to unlock the controls (Control Lock)
Control Lock disables the keypad to prevent unintended use.
- If needed, wake the control by pressing START/RESUME or CANCEL/DRAIN, or by opening and closing the door.
- Press and hold TOP RACK ONLY for 3 seconds to toggle Control Lock off.
- Try starting a cycle again.
For the exact button sequence and indicator behavior, follow the 66512773K313 owner’s manual.
If the door won’t “click” shut
A weak or broken latch can make the Start button seem dead because the dishwasher won’t run unless it senses a fully latched door.
- Check for dishes (cookie sheets, cutting boards, large containers) interfering with the door.
- Inspect the latch strike area for misalignment.
- If the latch feels loose or inconsistent, replace the dishwasher door latch WPW10653840.
What the symptoms usually mean
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Locked light on | Control Lock enabled | Hold TOP RACK ONLY 3 seconds |
| Start/Resume blinking | Waiting for restart after door opened | Press START/RESUME; close door within 3 seconds |
| Lights work, no run | Door not latched or latch switch issue | Re-latch door; inspect/replace latch |
| No lights | No power | Check breaker, wiring, junction box |
Why it matters
The control won’t energize the wash motor or fill valve unless the door switch circuit is satisfied and the control is in a valid “start” state. Fixing lock, latch, or resume conditions prevents unnecessary control board replacement.
Last updated: January 2026
How to hard reset a Kenmore dishwasher?
To hard reset the Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66512773K313, we reset the electronic control by canceling the current cycle, letting the unit drain, then starting a new cycle. The manual procedure uses the CANCEL/DRAIN and START/RESUME buttons; follow the steps in the 66512773K313 owner's manual.
Hard reset steps for model 66512773K313
- Open the door slightly to pause the cycle; wait for spraying to stop.
- Press and hold CANCEL/DRAIN until the Cancel/Drain indicator turns on.
- Close the door so the dishwasher can run the drain sequence if water is in the tub.
- After the Cancel/Drain indicator turns off, select a new cycle and options.
- Press START/RESUME, then close the door to begin.
If you are changing cycles mid-cycle
Use this when you want to stop a cycle and restart from the beginning.
- Pause the cycle by opening the door.
- Check whether the detergent dispenser cover is still closed (refill detergent if it opened).
- Press and hold CANCEL/DRAIN twice to reset the control.
- Re-select the cycle and options.
- Press START/RESUME and close the door.
Quick reference
| What you are seeing | What to do | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher is stuck or unresponsive | CANCEL/DRAIN reset | Clears the current cycle and drains if needed |
| You want to restart with a different cycle | CANCEL/DRAIN twice | Resets selections so you can choose a new cycle |
| START/RESUME light is blinking | Press START/RESUME and close the door promptly | Resumes the cycle after an interruption |
Why it matters
A proper control reset clears an interrupted cycle state, drains standing water, and helps resolve common “won’t start” symptoms without replacing parts.
Last updated: January 2026





