How to do a hard reset on a Kenmore dishwasher?
For a Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66513852K602, the most reliable “hard reset” is to cancel the current cycle and clear the control, then restart. Press CANCEL/DRAIN and let the dishwasher complete the drain (about 2 minutes), then select a new cycle and press START/RESUME; see the steps in the owner's manual.
Use the option that matches what your dishwasher is doing:
- Stuck mid-cycle or acting unresponsive: Press CANCEL/DRAIN once and let it drain fully.
- You want to clear lights/options before starting: Press CANCEL/DRAIN before choosing a new cycle.
- Controls seem “locked”: Press and hold HEATED DRY for 4 seconds to toggle Lock On off.
- After opening the door: Close the door firmly, then press START/RESUME to continue.
- Close the door (the unit must be closed to drain).
- Press CANCEL/DRAIN.
- Wait for the drain to finish (typically about 2 minutes).
- Confirm detergent is correct for the new cycle.
- Select your desired cycle and options.
- Press START/RESUME.
| What you see | What to do | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle won’t change | CANCEL/DRAIN, wait for drain | Clears the cycle and resets selections |
| Lights/options won’t clear | CANCEL/DRAIN before starting | Clears indicators/options |
| Buttons don’t respond, “Lock On” lit | Hold HEATED DRY 4 seconds | Unlocks the control panel |
A true “hard reset” on this style of Kenmore dishwasher is really a control clear plus drain. It prevents starting a new cycle with leftover water, stuck indicators, or a locked keypad, which helps avoid no-start and incomplete-wash problems.
Last updated: February 2026
How to get a Kenmore 66513852K602 Elite dishwasher to drain?
To drain your Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66513852K602, press CANCEL/DRAIN and keep the door closed; the dishwasher runs a drain cycle for about 2 minutes (if needed) and then stops. Use this before starting a new cycle or after a canceled cycle. See the owner's manual.
- Press CANCEL/DRAIN once.
- Confirm the Cancel/Drain light turns on.
- Close the door fully (the unit will not drain with the door open).
- Wait about 2 minutes for the drain cycle to finish.
- If you need to stop draining, press CANCEL/DRAIN again.
A drain problem is usually a blockage, a kinked hose, or a drain pump issue.
- Check the sink drain or garbage disposer connection for a clog.
- Make sure the drain hose is not kinked or crushed behind the dishwasher.
- Verify the drain hose connection is before the drain trap and the hose is routed in a high loop under the counter (recommended).
- If the dishwasher hums but does not move water, the drain pump area may be obstructed.
- If the dishwasher is completely dead (no lights), check the home breaker; a blown thermal fuse is also possible.
Correct routing prevents backflow and helps the dishwasher drain consistently.
| Item to check | What “correct” looks like | What goes wrong if not |
|---|---|---|
| Connection height | Drain connection is at least 20 in. above the floor | Water can siphon back, poor draining |
| Hose routing | High loop secured under counter (recommended) | Standing water, odor, slow drain |
| Hose condition | No kinks, no sharp bends | Restricted flow, incomplete drain |
If you find damage or a confirmed failure, these are common drain-related replacements for this model:
- Dishwasher drain hose 8269144A (cracked, soft, kinked, or leaking)
- Pump motor WPW10780877 (if the pump assembly is not moving water)
A proper drain clears dirty water so the next wash starts clean; it also helps prevent odors and standing water that can redeposit soil on dishes.
Last updated: February 2026
What does red lock mean on a dishwasher?
On the Kenmore Elite dishwasher model 66513852K602, a red lock light means Lock On (control lock) is turned on, so the buttons are disabled to prevent unintended use. Turn it off by pressing and holding HEATED DRY for 4 seconds (the lock light goes out). See the owner's manual.
When Lock On is lit:
- All control panel buttons are disabled.
- The lock helps prevent accidental cycle or option changes.
- You can still open the dishwasher door.
- If you press a button while locked, the lock light flashes (typically 3 times).
- If you open the door during a cycle, you must unlock and press START/RESUME to continue.
Use this exact button sequence for this model:
- To turn Lock On on: press and hold HEATED DRY for 4 seconds.
- To turn Lock On off: press and hold HEATED DRY for 4 seconds.
| Indicator | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Lock light is on (red lock) | Controls are locked | Hold HEATED DRY 4 seconds |
| START/RESUME light flashing | Door opened mid-cycle or power interruption | Close door, press START/RESUME |
If the control lock is on, the dishwasher can look “dead” even though power is fine. Unlocking restores normal button operation and helps you start, change, or resume a wash cycle.
Last updated: February 2026





