How do I get my dishwasher out of lock mode?
To take your Kenmore dishwasher model 66513893K801 out of Lock mode, press and hold HEATED DRY for 4 seconds until the LOCK ON light turns off. When the controls are unlocked, the buttons will work normally again (the door can open either way).
Unlock steps (66513893K801)
- Make sure the dishwasher is not actively running a cycle.
- Locate the HEATED DRY button on the control panel.
- Press and hold HEATED DRY for 4 seconds.
- Confirm the LOCK ON indicator light turns off.
- Try selecting a cycle and pressing START/RESUME.
For the model-specific Control Lock instructions, see the 66513893K801 user manual.
What you should see when it is locked vs unlocked
| Status | What you see | What happens if you press buttons |
|---|---|---|
| Locked | LOCK ON light is lit | Buttons are disabled; the light may flash |
| Unlocked | LOCK ON light is off | Cycle and option buttons respond normally |
If it still will not unlock
- Press and hold HEATED DRY a full 4 seconds (a quick tap will not change the setting).
- Wipe the control panel dry; moisture can make touch pads act unresponsive.
- Restore power by turning the breaker off for 1 minute, then back on; retry the unlock steps.
- If the panel is physically damaged or buttons do not respond at all, the issue can be in the touch panel or control.
If you suspect the control panel itself is not responding, the compatible replacement for this model is the control panel (black) WPW10205855.
Why it matters
Control Lock prevents accidental cycle starts and option changes during cleaning or when children are near the dishwasher. If Lock is on, the dishwasher cannot run, even if you select a cycle.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the life expectancy of a Kenmore dishwasher?
A Kenmore dishwasher like model 66513893K801 typically lasts 10 to 13 years with normal household use. Lifespan depends most on water quality, how often you run cycles, and routine care like proper loading, using rinse aid, and keeping the wash system clean (see the 66513893K801 use & care manual).
What affects lifespan the most
- Hard water: mineral buildup can reduce cleaning performance and strain components
- Detergent and rinse aid use: correct detergent plus rinse aid helps prevent filming and improves drying
- Loading habits: blocking the detergent dispenser or spray arms can cause poor results and repeat washing
- Heat and drying: frequent high-heat options can add wear over time
- Small leaks: door seal or vent gasket leaks can lead to corrosion and electrical issues
Typical lifespan vs. “time to repair” guidance
| Dishwasher age | What we usually see | Practical next step |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 years | Minor issues (clogs, loading, detergent) | Maintenance and adjustments |
| 6–10 years | Wear parts start showing up | Repair is often worthwhile |
| 10–13 years | Major components may fail | Compare repair cost vs. replacement |
| 14+ years | Multiple issues more likely | Replacement often makes sense |
Maintenance that helps you reach the high end (13 years)
- Run hot water at the sink before starting so wash water is hot sooner
- Use rinse aid consistently and keep the dispenser filled
- Check that spray arms spin freely before each cycle
- Clean interior film and odors periodically (vinegar rinse method in the manual)
- Address draining issues early (kinked hose, disposer knockout plug, clogs)
Why it matters
Knowing the expected lifespan helps you decide whether a symptom is likely a simple maintenance issue or a sign of a larger failure. For example, chronic poor drying can point to normal-use items like the dishwasher heating element W10518394 rather than the whole dishwasher being “worn out.”
Last updated: January 2026
What are the common problems with Kenmore dishwashers?
Common problems we see on the Kenmore 66513893K801 dishwasher include poor cleaning, water not draining, leaks, and cycles that will not start or finish. Many issues come from loading and detergent use, but worn seals, a weak drain pump, or a fill problem can also be the cause; see the 66513893K801 use & care manual for model-specific troubleshooting steps.
Most common symptoms and what usually causes them
- Dishes still dirty or gritty: spray arm holes blocked, poor loading, low water temperature, or a weak wash system
- Water left in the tub: drain hose kinked, disposer knockout plug not removed, or a failing drain pump
- Leaks at the door: door seal not sealing, debris on the gasket, or over-sudsing from wrong detergent
- Detergent not dispensing: dispenser blocked by tall items, or dispenser failure
- Won’t start or stops mid-cycle: door not latched, control lock on, or an electrical/control issue
Quick checks we recommend first (no parts needed)
- Confirm the door is fully latched; press START/RESUME again if the door was opened.
- Run hot water at the sink before starting; this model is designed for about 120°F incoming water.
- Make sure nothing blocks the detergent dispenser (cookie sheets and cutting boards are common culprits).
- Check that spray arms spin freely and are not jammed by dishes.
- Use only automatic dishwasher detergent; hand soap can cause suds and leaks.
When a part is the likely fix
| Symptom | Part to consider | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t drain / water remains | Dishwasher drain pump WPW10348269 | Pushes water out through the drain hose; a weak pump leaves standing water |
| Leaks around the door | Dishwasher door seal W10542314 | A flattened or torn gasket lets water escape during wash |
| Won’t fill or fills inconsistently | Dishwasher water inlet valve W10648041 | Controls water entering the tub; problems can cause poor wash results |
Why it matters
Catching the root cause early helps prevent repeat wash failures, reduces leak risk, and avoids overheating or extended cycle times caused by low water temperature or restricted water flow.
Last updated: January 2026





