Not dispensing

1% of dishwasher problems

Most Likely Causes

Dispenser Lever

Most common causeappliancepartspros

When the lever on your dishwasher's soap dispenser is damaged or broken, it can lead to issues with the dispenser not opening or closing correctly. To check if this is the problem, take a close look at the dispenser lever. If you see that it's indeed broken or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.
2.Locate the dispenser inside the dishwasher tub. It's where detergent and rinse aid is added.
3.Remove any mounting screws securing the old lever. Usually 1-2 small screws hold the lever in place.
4.Detach the old dispenser lever from the tub wall. Carefully lift it off once screws are removed.
5.Clean the mounting area where the new lever will attach. Remove any debris or residue.
6.Position the replacement lever onto the mounting area. Align the holes to start the securing screws.
7.Finger-tighten the mounting screws to hold the new lever in place. Do not overtighten.
8.Test the lever movement. It should operate smoothly without binding.
9.Reconnect power and run a test cycle. Add detergent to ensure the lever dispenses correctly.
10.Readjust lever if needed for proper dispensing action. Tighten or loosen screws to optimize movement.
11.Replace access panels and inspect final installation.

Detergent Dispenser Cover

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The dispenser cover helps keep the detergent and rinse aid in place until they're meant to be released during the wash cycle. If it's damaged, it might not work correctly, leading to improper detergent distribution, and your dishes may not get as clean as desired. Check the cover of the dispenser carefully for any signs of damage. If you find that the dispenser cover is indeed broken or damaged in any way, it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.
2.Locate the detergent dispenser inside the dishwasher tub. This is where detergent is added.
3.Remove any mounting screws or clips securing the cover. Look inside dispenser tray area.
4.Detach the old cover from the dispenser tray. Carefully lift it straight up once fasteners are removed.
5.Clean the mounting area where the new cover will attach. Remove any residue or debris.
6.Position the replacement cover onto the dispenser tray. Align mounting holes if present.
7.Reinstall any mounting screws or clips to secure the new cover. Don't overtighten.
8.Test the cover fitting. It should sit flush without any gaps around the edges.
9.Reconnect power and run a test cycle. Check detergent fully dissolves during wash.
10.Readjust placement if needed. Loosen fasteners slightly to optimize tight yet removable fit.
11.Replace access panels and inspect final installation.

Detergent Container

Most common causeappliancepartspros

Check the dishwasher detergent dispenser for any signs of damage. If you find that the container is broken or shows any kind of damage, it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dishwasher door and locate the detergent container. It's usually in the inner door or top rack area.
3.Remove any mounting screws securing the container in place. Lift to detach from door/rack.
4.Gently shake out any old detergent remnants from the container. Clean inside with warm water if needed.
5.Clean the container mounting area where the new one will attach. Wipe away debris.
6.Position the replacement container onto the mounting surface. Align holes if present.
7.Reinsert any mounting screws to secure the new container. Don't overtighten the fasteners.
8.Check the container fits securely. It shouldn't move around during a cycle.
9.Reconnect power and run a test cycle. Add detergent to confirm it dissolves properly.
10.Readjust placement if needed before use. Make sure you have a snug yet easily removable fit.
11.Close door and inspect final installation.

Dispenser Lid

Most common causeappliancepartspros

Check the dishwasher dispenser lid for any signs of damage. If you find that the lid is broken or shows any kind of damage, it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.
2.Locate the detergent dispenser within the dishwasher tub. This is where detergent is added.
3.Remove any mounting screws or clips securing the existing lid. Look inside dispenser area.
4.Detach the old lid by lifting it straight up once fasteners are removed. Carefully remove lid.
5.Clean the mounting area in dispenser where new lid will attach. Remove any residue.
6.Position the replacement lid onto the dispenser mount. Align holes if fasteners are used.
7.Reinstall the mounting screws or clips to secure the new lid in place. Don't overtighten.
8.Test that the lid is flush and seals properly around the perimeter. No gaps should be present.
9.Reconnect power and run a test cycle. Check detergent fully dissolves as intended.
10.Readjust placement if needed before use. Make sure the lid is snug yet easy to remove when needed.
11.Replace any panels and inspect final installation.

Detergent Dispenser

Most common causeappliancepartspros

If one of the part of your detergent dispenser is broken, and don't want to take it apart to fix it, you can choose to replace the entire dispenser assembly.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. Turn off power for safety before servicing.
2.Locate the dispenser inside the dishwasher tub. This is where detergent is added.
3.Remove any mounting screws or retaining clips. Look inside dispenser compartment.
4.Detach wires from dispenser module if applicable. Gently disconnect each wire.
5.Lift out the old dispenser module straight up once fully disconnected. Carefully remove.
6.Clean the mounting area where new dispenser will attach. Remove any debris.
7.Position replacement dispenser module onto mounting surface. Align holes if needed.
8.Reinstall mounting screws or clips to secure new dispenser. Don't overtighten fasteners.
9.Reconnect any wires one by one matching positions. Refer to photos if taken earlier.
10.Run a test cycle with detergent added. Make sure proper dispensing and dissolving occurs.
11.Check final installation and fit.

Dispenser Slide

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The dispenser has a slide that helps the door open and close correctly. If the slide gets broken or damaged, the door won't open or close properly. Check the slide to see if it is cracked or worn out. If the slide is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dishwasher dispenser door and locate the existing slide. Usually mounted inside door frame.
3.Remove any mounting screws or clips securing the slide in place. Carefully detach from frame.
4.Clean the mounting area where the new slide will attach. Remove debris or residue from surface.
5.Fit the replacement slide onto the mounting area. Align holes if fasteners are used.
6.Reinstall the mounting screws or clips to securely fasten the new slide. Do not overtighten.
7.Close the dispenser door and test the movement of the new slide. It should move smoothly.
8.Run a test cycle while observing the slide operation. Make sure it functions properly.
9.Readjust slide if needed before final installation. Align for optimal movement and fit.
10.Replace any removed panels or covers. Inspect final installation thoroughly.
11.Reconnect power when finished.

Dispenser Door Pin

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The dispenser door has a pin that helps it open and close. If the pin is broken, the door won't open or close correctly. Look at the pin to see if it is damaged. If the pin is broken or worn, you will need to replace it with a new one.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dispenser door and locate the existing pin. Usually seated into a hole in the door.
3.Gently squeeze the hinge to detach door from existing pin. Carefully lift door off pin without damage.
4.Clean the holes where the new pin will insert. Remove any debris from surfaces.
5.position the replacement pin into place. Align the pin shaft and mounting holes.
6.Press the pin firmly into the holes until fully seated. It should be snug without play.
7.Hang the dispenser door back onto the inserted pin. Gently push door into hinge position.
8.Close and open door to test smooth motion on new pin. Readjust pin seating if any binding occurs.
9.Reconnect power and run test cycle. Operate door many times to check pin functionality.
10.Lubricate pin if needed for continued smooth operation.
11.Replace any panels and inspect final installation.

Dispenser Actuator

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The dispenser actuator controls opening and closing the door. If the actuator is broken, the door won't open or close correctly. Check the actuator to see if it is damaged or worn. If the actuator is broken you will need to replace it.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dishwasher dispenser door and locate the actuator. Usually near detergent dispenser area.
3.Note wire connections at actuator terminals for reconnection later. Take clear photos if needed.
4.Disconnect wires one by one from actuator without damaging. Carefully detach each wire.
5.Remove any mounting screws securing actuator in place. Lift straight up once fully disconnected.
6.Clean mounting area where new actuator will attach. Remove debris from surface.
7.Mount replacement actuator using screws removed earlier. Align mounting holes securely.
8.Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos as needed.
9.Close door and run test cycle. Actuator should dispense detergent at correct times.
10.Check dispenser operation and adjust actuator if needed. Make sure you have proper detergent delivery.
11.Replace any panels and inspect final installation.

Bi-Metal

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The dispenser has a bi-metal loop that holds the door closed. When electricity goes to the bi-metal, it bends and lets the door open. If the bi-metal is burned out, it won't bend to release the door. To check if the bi-metal is working, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If it does not have continuity, the bi-metal is burned out and needs to be replaced. Also make sure the dispenser is getting enough water. If the water is too low, the motor may not pull enough electricity through the bi-metal. This could stop it from bending right to open the door. Add water if it is low.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Remove the dishwasher kick plate and bottom panel for access. Bi-metal is usually mounted under the tub.
3.Note wire connections to bi-metal terminals. Take clear photos of positions for reconnecting.
4.Disconnect wires one at a time without damaging insulation. Carefully detach each connection.
5.Remove mounting screws securing existing bi-metal to unit. Lift out once fully disconnected.
6.Clean mounting area where new bi-metal will attach. Remove any debris from surface.
7.Mount replacement bi-metal using screws removed earlier. Align holes properly.
8.Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos.
9.Replace access panels and secure with fasteners. Make sure no wires are pinched.
10.Reconnect power and run test cycle. Check for proper heating operation.
11.Inspect final installation.

Control Board

Most common causeappliancepartspros

The control board is responsible for controlling almost every function of the dishwasher. If there is an issue with the main control board, it may fail to send the required voltage to the detergent dispenser to release the detergent. It is important to note that control boards are sometimes incorrectly identified as the problem, so it is recommended that you test other components that are more commonly known to be defective before considering a replacement of the main control board.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing.
2.Remove lower access panel or kick panel. Find and remove securing screws along bottom.
3.Note positions of all wire connections to board. Take photos to reference during reconnection.
4.Disconnect all wires from old control board. Gently detach each wire one at a time.
5.Remove mounting screws from board enclosure. Usually 2-4 screws secure electronic board assembly.
6.Detach old control board from enclosure base. Carefully lift board out once fully disconnected.
7.Clean mounting area inside enclosure base. Wipe away any debris from new board mounting area.
8.Mount replacement control board into base. Set into position and start securing screws.
9.Reconnect wires one by one, matching positions. Reference photos to precisely reconnect wires.
10.Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.
11.Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Dispenser Door Spring

Most common causeappliancepartspros

If the dispenser door spring is defective, it may cause the dispenser to remain closed during the wash cycle. Check the dispenser door spring for any signs of damage. If you notice any bending, breakage, or other forms of damage you will need to replace the door spring.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dishwasher dispenser door and locate the spring. It's usually attached near the hinge mechanism.
3.Compress the spring ends with pliers and unwind from posts. Carefully remove without damaging posts.
4.Detach ends of old spring from retaining screws/posts within door. Gently pry ends off posts.
5.Clean posts where new spring will attach. Remove any debris or residue from mounting surfaces.
6.Position replacement spring around retaining posts within door. Wind ends around posts securely.
7.Release spring ends to test pressure and movement. Check spring returns door to closed position.
8.Close dispenser door and ensure it latches fully under spring tension. Adjust spring position if needed.
9.Reconnect power and run test cycle. Operate door to verify spring functions properly.
10.Readjust spring if door fails to latch closed fully under pressure. Tighten ends further onto posts.
11.Replace any panels and inspect final installation.

Hose

31.2% of casesamazon_reviews

Valve

22.9% of casesamazon_reviews

Pump

16.7% of casesamazon_reviews

Gasket Seal

14.6% of casesamazon_reviews

Heating Element

8.3% of casesamazon_reviews

Motor

6.2% of casesamazon_reviews

Dispenser

6.2% of casesamazon_reviews

If one of the part of your detergent dispenser is broken, and don't want to take it apart to fix it, you can choose to replace the entire dispenser assembly.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dishwasher door and locate the existing dispenser. Usually mounted inside door or tub wall.
3.Remove any mounting screws or clips holding dispenser in place. Lift unit out once detached.
4.Disconnect wires from dispenser module if applicable. Carefully detach each wire connection.
5.Clean mounting area where new dispenser will attach. Remove debris or residue from surface.
6.Mount replacement dispenser unit using screws or clips removed earlier. Align holes properly.
7.Reconnect wires individually matching positions as noted before. Refer to photos if taken.
8.Close door and run test cycle with detergent added. Make sure it dissolves and dispenses fully.
9.Check final installation and operation of new dispenser. Adjust and tighten fittings as needed.
10.Run additional test cycles if adjustments were made. Verify proper performance.
11.Replace any access panels and inspect final installation.

Dispenser Latch

appliancepartspros

The dispenser has a latch that opens and closes the door. If the latch is broken, the dispenser door won't open or close properly. Check the latch to see if it is damaged. If the latch is broken, you need to replace it with a new one.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at the circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Open the dispenser door and locate the existing latch. It's usually on the inner door frame.
3.Remove any mounting screws securing the latch in place. Typically 1-2 small screws.
4.Detach the old latch body from the inner door frame. Carefully remove once screws are out.
5.Clean the mounting area where the new latch will attach. Remove debris from surface.
6.Position the replacement latch onto the mounting area. Align screw holes if present.
7.Reinstall the mounting screws to secure the new latch body. Don't overtighten screws.
8.Close and latch the dispenser door. Make sure it catches and holds securely.
9.Operate latch mechanism to check smooth movement and full engagement. Readjust if needed.
10.Reconnect power and run test cycle. Operate door repeatedly to verify latch function.
11.Replace any panels and inspect final installation.

Water Inlet Valve

appliancepartspros

The inlet valve opens to fill the dishwasher after a short drain. This fills the dishwasher with water for the wash cycle. If the inlet valve is broken and doesn't fill the dishwasher, the wash cycle could stop, and the signal never be sent to the dispenser to open. If this is the case the water valve will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at circuit breaker and shut off water supply. Shut off for safety.
2.Disconnect water supply line from existing valve inside dishwasher. May need adjustable wrench.
3.Note wire connections at valve terminals for reconnecting later. Take clear photos if needed.
4.Remove wires from inlet valve terminals one at a time. Carefully detach each wire.
5.Remove mounting screws securing valve in place. Lift valve straight up once detached.
6.Clean area where new inlet valve will mount. Remove any debris from surface.
7.Mount replacement valve using screws removed earlier. Align holes securely.
8.Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos.
9.Connect water supply line to new valve and tighten securely. Open water shut-off valve.
10.Replace any access panels and reconnect power. Perform test run and check for leaks.
11.Inspect installation and make adjustments as needed.

Main Control Board

appliancepartspros

The main control board is responsible for controlling almost every function of the dishwasher. If there is an issue with the main control board, it may fail to send the required voltage to the detergent dispenser, resulting in the dispenser not opening. It is important to note that control boards are sometimes incorrectly identified as the problem, so it is recommended that you test other components that are more commonly known to be defective before considering a replacement of the main control board.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power at circuit breaker. Turn off power to dishwasher before servicing.
2.Remove lower access panel or kick panel. Find and remove securing screws along bottom.
3.Note positions of all wire connections to board. Take photos to reference during reconnection.
4.Disconnect all wires from old control board. Gently detach each wire one at a time.
5.Remove mounting screws from board enclosure. Usually 2-4 screws secure electronic board assembly.
6.Detach old control board from enclosure base. Carefully lift board out once fully disconnected.
7.Clean mounting area inside enclosure base. Wipe away any debris from new board mounting area.
8.Mount replacement control board into base. Set into position and start securing screws.
9.Reconnect wires one by one, matching positions. Reference photos to precisely reconnect wires.
10.Replace lower access panel removed earlier. Secure with screws.
11.Reconnect power and test functions. Run cycle while checking for proper operations.

Pump and Motor Assembly

appliancepartspros

The dishwasher has a pump and motor that moves water through the wash arms when washing and rinsing. If the pump and motor are broken, the wash cycle could stop and cause the detergent dispenser to not release the detergent. If the pump and motor assembly fails it will need to be replaced.

Repair Steps

1.Disconnect power to dishwasher at circuit breaker. Shut off for safety before servicing.
2.Remove lower kick panel and drain hose from pump. Detach hose clamp to separate parts.
3.Note position of wires on motor terminals for reconnecting later. Take clear photos if needed.
4.Disconnect wires from existing pump motor one at a time. Carefully remove without damaging.
5.Remove mounting screws securing pump body to dishwasher tub. Lift out entire assembly.
6.Clean area where new pump will mount. Remove debris from mounting surface.
7.Mount replacement pump body using screws removed earlier. Align mounting holes properly.
8.Reconnect wires individually matching positions noted earlier. Refer to photos as needed.
9.Reattach drain hose to new pump with clamp. Make sure you have a tight secure connection.
10.Replace lower panel and reconnect power. Run test cycle to check new pump operation.
11.Inspect installation and make adjustments as needed.

Improper loading

appliancepartspros

The dishes need room between them and the dispenser. If dishes are too close, the dispenser door may not open and allow the water to mix with the detergent. Don't put large plates or pans right in front of the dispenser. This blocks it so the detergent door cannot open. Leave some empty space around the dispenser.