Until the day kitchen tech will earn a reputation for perfection, your KitchenAid dishwasher may have issues with different components, including the control panel
So in this post, I’ll highlight common KitchenAid dishwasher control panel problems as well as how to fix them.
The most common KitchenAid dishwasher control panel problems include a faulty main control board, lack of power supply, a glitch in the system, a failing drain pump, and a faulty heating element. Doing a dishwasher reset can solve some issues, but other require complete troubleshooting.
Whether your KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel isn’t responding to commands or sometimes it works well and then stops, knowing the cause of the problem and fixing the error is the best way to go.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel Problems Explained
Your KitchenAid dishwasher control panel is one of the most important components of the unit. So if it doesn’t work, as it should, it’s important to figure out why and fix the problem as fast as possible.
If the control panel of your unit is not working, it could be for the following reasons:
| Problem | Probable Cause | Quick Fix | |
| 1. | Faulty Main Control Board | Loose connections, electrical shortages, or lack of power | Check for loose connections and reconnect them. Otherwise, replace the main control board if it’s faulty |
| 2. | Dishwasher not getting power | The circuit breaker may have tripped, fuse blown, or dishwasher plugged into an extension cord. | Plug the unit directly to the power source, not an extension cord. Replace the fuse. Reposition tripped circuit breaker. |
| 3. | A possible glitch in the dishwasher | Dishwasher just jams up due to programming malfunctions | Do a soft or hard reset to reboot the dishwasher and then run a new wash cycle. |
| 4. | Control panel lights linking | Faulty heating element | Replace the heating element with a new one if the current one doesn’t have continuity. |
| 5. | Faulty drain pump | You should replace the drain pump with a new one |
Diagnosing a KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel that doesn’t work isn’t as difficult. You just need to identify why yours isn’t working and learn how to fix it.
1. The Main Control Board is Faulty
A problem in the main control board can cause your KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel to fail to respond to commands or stop working altogether.
So it’s best to run a q quick check to determine if this is the case.
To do this:
- Disconnect or unplug the dishwasher from the power source.
- Open the door to the dishwasher
- Open the console and disconnect it from the main control board by disconnecting the keypad harness.
- Thoroughly inspect the connections to ensure that everything is in place.
- Without closing the dishwasher door, reconnect every connection to its place except for the user interface ribbon.
- Reconnect the dishwasher to the power and wait at least 5 to 10 seconds
- Close the dishwasher door.
- Check how the control panel responds.
The KitchenAid dishwasher runs the drain pump if it doesn’t detect the control panel. It means that if the drain pump works without connecting the keypad, the main control board is working fine and there’s no need to have it replaced.
On the other hand, if the drain pump fails, it’s an indication of a faulty main control board, which you have to replace.
To replace the main control board:
- Turn off the power supply in the dishwasher
- Unwind the screw securing the control panel and pull the panel out.
- Pull the moisture shield out of the way and squeeze the tabs to disconnect the ribbon wire.
- Disconnect the rinse aid sensor wire to free the control panel from the main control board.
- Unscrew the old main control board, install the new control board, and secure it with the mounting screws.
- Transfer the wires from the old control board to the newly mounted board.
- Use a flat head screwdriver to transfer the thermal fuse, and reconnect the rinse aid sensor wire as well as the ribbon wire.
- Move the moisture shield back to place.
- Carefully align the control panel and secure it with the screws.
You can now restore power to the dishwasher to make sure the control panel is now functioning properly.
Remember, it’s more economical to have the main control board replaced instead of buying a new KitchenAid dishwasher.
Also Read: KitchenAid Dishwasher Diagnostic Mode
2. KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Getting Power
Your KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel should light up first when connected to power. So if you notice that there’s no light on the control panel, it’s likely that the unit isn’t getting power.
Your dishwasher can fail to get power for several reasons, including:
- The power fuse may have blown up
- The circuit breaker may have tripped or
- You may have connected the dishwasher to an extension cord instead of directly to the socket
The first thing you need to do is to check whether you’ve properly connected the dishwasher directly to the power source.
If you’re dealing with a blown fuse, replace it with a new one. Also, check of the circuit breaker tripped. If that’s the case, push it back to its appropriate position.
3. There’s a Glitch in Your KitchenAid Dishwasher
If power is getting to the dishwasher, the door closes and latches well, but there’s still a problem with the dishwasher’s control panel, it’s likely there’s a glitch with the system.
As with other dishwasher models, such as Whirlpool and GE, your KitchenAid dishwasher can have glitches that cause the control panel to fail to work.
You may notice that the touchpads don’t respond to presses, or the entire system may be unresponsive to commands.
The quickest fix to this problem is to reset the dishwasher.
To do the reset:
- Cut off the power supply by tripping the circuit breaker. Consider doing this especially if you’ve had your KitchenAid dishwasher hardwired to the power supply.
- Wait for about 1 to 2 minutes, and then turn the power back on to see whether the control panel works.
When you cut off power from the unit, the dishwasher automatically reboots and, in the process, clears the unit’s memory.
This helps clear glitches that may be causing the dishwasher control panel not to work.
4. KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel Lights Blinking
The possible reasons why the control panel of your KitchenAid dishwasher is blinking are as follows:
Faulty Heating Element
The lights on the control panel will start flickering when the heating element does not heat the water to the right temperature after the set period.
Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If the test doesn’t return a continuity, consider replacing the entire heating element.
Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump features an impeller that forces water to go through the drainage horse. If the drain pump isn’t working, a light will blink on the control panel to indicate a problem with the unit.
Test the pump motor for continuity with a multimeter. Replace the drain pump if there is no continuity on the pump motor.
Note that you cannot repair a drain pump. If it is defective, you need to replace it with a new one.
Also Check: Why Is My KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Spraying Water?
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel Reset
There are two ways to reset a KitchenAid dishwasher control panel. Your options are a soft and hard reset.
1. Soft Reset
To do a soft reset for your KitchenAid dishwasher:
- Close the dishwasher door and make sure it latches
- Press “Hi-Temp Scrub” and the “Energy Saver Dry” buttons 5 time. The lights on the control panel should flash repeatedly for about 4 to 5 seconds.
- Leave the dishwasher for about 10 minutes to give it enough time to reset.
- Initiate a new cycle once the reset process is complete.
2. Hard Rest
To do a hard reset for your KitchenAid dishwasher:
- Unplug the power cord from the dishwasher.
- Keep the unit unplugged for at least 5 minutes, which is enough time for the dishwasher to reset itself.
- Plug the dishwasher’s power cord back to the power outlet
- Run an empty wash cycle to see if the control panel works well
I recommend starting with the soft reset first, as it’s sometimes sufficient to reset the control panel of the dishwasher.
However, if you notice that your KitchenAid dishwasher control panel failed to reset, doing the hard reset can help fix the problem.
KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel Replacement
If resetting the control panel of your KitchenAid dishwasher doesn’t fix the underlying problem, it could be the component is faulty and needs a replacement.
The first overall step to replacing the control panel is to buy one. When looking for a “new control panel”, make sure the option you choose is compatible with the KitchenAid dishwasher.
Again, you don’t need a professional technician to come over to your place and fix the problem for you. With a few simple tools and step-by-step, DIY tips, you can replace the control panel on your own in an hour or so.
To replace the control panel for your KitchenAid dishwasher:
- Start by unplugging the hardware from the power supply to avoid electrocution.
- Unwind all the relevant Torx screw heads located inside the door.
- Disconnect the old control panel from the control board. Do it carefully so you don’t mess with the motherboard.
- Slowly remove the old control panel.
- Unbox the new control panel, and install it by plugging in all its wires to their necessary spots.
- Secure the control panel to the door with the Torx head screws.
- Plug back the dishwasher to power and turn it on to see whether you did the fix right.
Your new control panel should work.
The cost of replacing a KitchenAid dishwasher control panel should be between $200 and $500 for a new model.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why Are the Lights Flashing on My KitchenAid Dishwasher?
The light on the control panel will flash when the door is unlatched and the KitchenAid dishwasher is set for a delayed start.
The cycle indicator lights will keep flashing and the delay start countdown will keep counting until you latch the door.
2. How do I Reset My KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel?
You can reset your KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel by unplugging it from power. Wait for a minute or so and plug it back to the power supply.
3. Why is My KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Starting?
Your KitchenAid dishwasher isn’t starting at all is maybe that there is a power supply issue.
Check the circuit breaker and see if it has tripped. If the circuit breaker is in a proper position, check to make sure you’ve connected the unit to the right power supply and not to an extension cord.
4. Why Does My KitchenAid Dishwasher Keep Beeping?
Your KitchenAid dishwasher keeps beeping to signify incorrect use or a component is faulty and requires repair.
Most appliances, dishwashers included come with onboard sensors that beep or flashes lights to caution you that something is wrong with the appliance.
Can I purchase the buttons separately if they are the cause of the issue?
No, you cannot purchase the buttons separately if they are causing the issue. Instead, you would need to replace the entire control assembly as it incorporates all the components related to the buttons.
Can I purchase the touchpad separately instead of replacing the entire control board?
Unfortunately, you cannot purchase the touchpad separately. If you suspect the touchpad to be the issue, it is not available as an individual part for purchase. In order to resolve the problem, you will need to replace the entire control board assembly, as it contains all the necessary components.
What steps can I take to perform a general inspection and fix any necessary issues?
To perform a general inspection and fix any necessary issues with your dishwasher, follow these steps:
1. Start by turning off and unplugging the dishwasher from its power source to ensure safety.
2. Carefully examine the key-pad ribbon tail. Look for any signs of damage such as broken, shorted, corroded, or creased traces. If any issues are found, they should be addressed promptly.
3. Check for loose connections to the control module. Make sure all the connections are securely attached and tighten any loose connections if necessary.
4. Inspect the keypad perimeter, the key-pad ribbon tail and the keypad connector at the control module for evidence of contamination or corrosion. These contaminants can affect the proper functioning of the dishwasher. If you notice any build-up or corrosion, try to clear it using appropriate cleaning methods or products.
By following these steps and addressing any issues discovered during the inspection, you can ensure a thorough examination and fix any necessary problems with your dishwasher.
What should I do if I notice unusual blinking of the LED lights or strange readouts on the display?
If you notice unusual blinking of the LED lights or strange readouts on the display of your device, it could indicate a potential issue with the control board. In such cases, it is advisable to take the following steps:
1. Start by checking the user manual or product documentation for any specific troubleshooting instructions provided by the manufacturer. This can help identify common issues and potential solutions related to the LED lights or display readouts.
2. Ensure that the device is properly connected and all cables are securely plugged in. Sometimes, loose connections can lead to unusual behavior of LED lights or display readouts.
3. If the issue persists, try resetting the device by turning it off, unplugging it from the power source, waiting for a few minutes, and then plugging it back in. This simple reset can sometimes resolve minor malfunctions.
4. If resetting doesn’t help, carefully inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage or loose components. If you have the necessary knowledge and expertise, you may attempt to reconnect any loose wires or replace the control board if it appears to be defective.
5. In case you are unsure or uncomfortable handling the control board yourself, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Contact the manufacturer’s customer support or a qualified technician who can diagnose and fix the issue accordingly.
Remember, unusual blinking of LED lights or strange readouts on the display can indicate a control board defect, but it is important to follow proper troubleshooting steps and seek professional help if needed to ensure a safe and appropriate resolution to the problem.
What are the signs that indicate a serious problem with the control board?
There are several signs that can indicate a serious problem with the control board of your Kitchenaid dishwasher. Some of these signs include:
1. Malfunctioning buttons: If you notice that some buttons on the control panel are not working or if more buttons start to fail over time, it is a clear indication of an issue with the control board.
2. Lack of functioning lights: When none of the lights on the control panel come on, it signifies that there is a problem with the control board. This means that nothing on the dishwasher will work, and the lights that usually indicate different functions or cycles will not illuminate.
3. Unusual LEDs or display readouts: Another sign that your control board may be defective is if you observe unusual blinking of the LED lights or if strange readouts, such as random letters or numbers, appear on the display.
If the issues with the control board escalate over time, you may initially experience problems with specific buttons, but eventually, all the buttons could stop responding, rendering the control panel completely unresponsive. In some cases, the control panel may even fail to light up at all, and it is important to rule out power-related problems before identifying the control board as the potential cause.
If you encounter any of these signs, it is highly likely that there is a serious problem with the control board of your Kitchenaid dishwasher that requires attention and possibly replacement.
How can I troubleshoot the control board on my Kitchenaid dishwasher?
To troubleshoot the control board on your Kitchenaid dishwasher, there are several steps you can take:
1. Start by checking if any of the buttons on the dishwasher are not working, and if the problem is worsening over time. This could indicate a control board issue.
2. Another sign of a control board problem is if none of the lights on the control panel come on. If there is no power or no response from the dishwasher, it is likely related to the control board.
3. Look out for any unusual LEDs or display readouts. If you notice any strange or inconsistent information being displayed, it could be a symptom of a faulty control board.
Before attempting any further troubleshooting, it’s always a good idea to perform a control panel reset. To do this:
1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power source or disconnect the power supply.
2. Inspect the key-pad ribbon tail for any visible issues such as broken, shorted, corroded, or creased traces. If you notice any problems, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
3. Check for loose connections to the control board and ensure they are securely attached. If any connections appear loose or disconnected, reattach them properly.
4. Examine the keypad perimeter, the key-pad ribbon tail, and the keypad connector on the control board for any signs of contamination or corrosion. If present, try to clean or remove any contaminants or corrosion.
If the above steps do not resolve the control board problems, the next course of action is to consider replacing the part. If you suspect the control board is burned or damaged beyond repair, it is recommended to replace it with the Whirlpool W10243209 replacement control board. This genuine replacement part comes with the touchpad and new connectors. Simply remove the circuit board from the old control board and plug it into the new one.
However, it is important to note that before opting for a replacement part, it’s crucial to eliminate any other potential causes of the issue. Make sure to explore all other troubleshooting options and rule out any other faults before concluding that the control board needs to be replaced.
How can I reset my Kitchenaid dishwasher control board?
What should be done if resetting the control panel doesn’t fix the problem?
If resetting the control panel doesn’t fix the problem, it could indicate a faulty component that may require replacement.
What is the recommended reset procedure for a KitchenAid dishwasher?
The exact steps for resetting a KitchenAid dishwasher can be found in the Kitchenaid dishwasher reset sequence (Reset procedure) guide.
What is the recommended first step when troubleshooting control board defects?
The recommended first step is to reset the board by recycling power to the unit.
To reset your KitchenAid dishwasher control board, you can perform a hard reset by following these steps:
1. Unplug the power cord from the dishwasher. This will disconnect the unit from the power source.
2. It is important to keep the dishwasher unplugged for at least 5 minutes. This duration allows the dishwasher to fully reset itself.
3. After the 5-minute wait, plug the dishwasher’s power cord back into the power outlet securely. Ensure it is properly connected.
4. To check if the control panel is functioning properly, run an empty wash cycle. This will help determine if the reset has resolved any issues.
While performing a hard reset is a good initial troubleshooting step for control board defects, it is essential to note that if the problem persists, the control board component may be faulty and require a replacement. For a more detailed and specific reset procedure, you can refer to their “Kitchenaid dishwasher reset sequence (Reset procedure) guide.”
Remember, following these steps can help reset your KitchenAid dishwasher control board, but if the issue persists, it is recommended to seek professional assistance or consider contacting KitchenAid’s customer support for further guidance.
How can I reset the control panel of my Kitchenaid dishwasher?
What should I do if the soft reset doesn’t work?
If the soft reset doesn’t work and the control panel fails to reset, you can try doing a hard reset. This involves unplugging the power cord from the dishwasher, keeping it unplugged for at least 5 minutes, and then plugging it back in. Running an empty wash cycle after the hard reset can help determine if the control panel is working properly.
How do I perform a soft reset for the KitchenAid dishwasher?
To perform a soft reset for the KitchenAid dishwasher, you can try recycling power to the unit. This can be done by unplugging the power cord from the dishwasher, waiting for a few minutes, and then plugging it back in.
What are the exact steps for resetting the KitchenAid dishwasher?
The exact steps for resetting a KitchenAid dishwasher are provided in the KitchenAid dishwasher reset sequence guide. It is recommended to follow that guide for the specific instructions.
Is there a specific KitchenAid dishwasher reset sequence guide?
Yes, there is a specific KitchenAid dishwasher reset sequence guide available. It provides the exact steps to follow for resetting the control panel.
What is the recommended troubleshooting step for control board defects?
The recommended troubleshooting step for control board defects is to reset the board by recycling power to the unit.
To reset the control panel of your KitchenAid dishwasher, you can try a hard reset by following these steps:
1. Unplug the power cord from the dishwasher.
2. Keep the unit unplugged for at least 5 minutes. This duration allows the dishwasher to fully reset itself.
3. After the 5-minute wait, plug the power cord back into the electrical outlet.
4. Now, run an empty wash cycle to check if the control panel is functioning properly.
It’s important to note that a hard reset can often resolve control panel issues. However, if you find that the control panel fails to reset using this method, there is another option you can try. Please refer to the KitchenAid dishwasher reset sequence guide for the exact steps to follow. This guide is specifically designed to troubleshoot control board defects and provides a recommended sequence of actions to reset the control panel effectively.
Starting with a soft reset is generally sufficient for resetting the control panel. But, if you encounter persistent problems, a hard reset can be a helpful solution. By following these steps, you can ensure that your KitchenAid dishwasher is reset and ready to perform optimally once again.
Conclusion: ”KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel Problems Troubleshooting”
If there’s one important lesson to take away from this guide, it’s that KitchenAid dishwasher control panel problems are issues you can fix on your own.
You’re going to spend less on replacement parts. And you don’t have to worry about the cost of repair service because you already have a complete DIY guide to help you with component replacement.