How do I know if my control panel is bad on my dishwasher?

Author: Mr. Nicholaus Powlowski II  |  Last update: Friday, July 25, 2025

Other signs of a faulty control board include error codes being displayed on the control panel, and strange noises or smells coming from your dishwasher.

How to tell if a dishwasher control board is bad?

Because you're looking for a short circuit, the multimeter should read only 1 or 2 ohms or less. This will indicate that the power is getting from the plug to the control board but not any further and the dishwasher is dead because the control board is faulty.

Is it worth fixing the control panel on a dishwasher?

I normally recommend customers give it some thought when the repair reaches half the cost of replacing the machine. If you are doing the repair yourself it might be worth it. If you are hiring a tech to replace the control board it might not be worth the cost.

How long does a dishwasher control board last?

With proper care, a control board can last the lifetime of the dishwasher (about 10-15 years). However, factors like power surges or excessive moisture can shorten its lifespan.

How much does it cost to replace the control board on a dishwasher?

Control Panel - The control panel is the interface for operating the dishwasher. If it fails, you won't be able to select a cycle. The average cost to fix a control panel is around $250, with a range of $200 to $400.

Dishwasher Buttons Not Working — Dishwasher Troubleshooting

How do I fix the control panel on my dishwasher?

How to reset a dishwasher control panel
  1. First press the “Cancel/Resume” button, which won't be illuminated, then unplug the appliance from the outlet. ...
  2. Wait approximately 1 minute, plug the cord back into the AC outlet or flip the breaker back on.
  3. Start a new cycle and check if the dishwasher is working properly.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a dishwasher?

You're better off putting the money toward a new $500 appliance. But for a $1,000 dishwasher, a $140 repair is often worth pursuing for the better part of a decade. Most appliances are covered under warranty in their first year.

How do I know if my washer needs a new control board?

Washing machines should operate in a predictable manner. If your machine starts acting erratically, like stopping mid-cycle, skipping cycles, or not completing a cycle, the control board might be malfunctioning.

Can you reset a dishwasher control board?

Some dishwashers come equipped with a reset button on the control panel. If your model has one, locate the button and press it. Hold the button for a few seconds until you see lights blink or hear a beep. This action should initiate the reset process.

What is the normal life expectancy of a dishwasher?

The life expectancy of a dishwasher is about 10 years, according to manufacturers surveyed by Consumer Reports. However, issues with the appliances tend to develop within the first five years.

When to replace dishwasher control board?

Visually inspect the dishwasher control board and all wiring for any signs of overheating/being burnt, cracks, or corrosion. If the board is burned, cracked or corroded, it needs to be replaced. If the board appears to pass a visual inspection, it is a good candidate for repair service.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old dishwasher?

If your dishwasher is within the five-year limit, it's definitely worth fixing. But if your dishwasher is closer to ten years, finding replacement parts might be too expensive, so you'd be better off replacing your machine.

How do I clean my dishwasher control panel?

Using a damp microfiber cloth or sponge, wipe away residue from the inside of the door, including the door's edges and control panel. Your dishwasher's gasket — the rubber seal that lines the door — needs some attention, too.

How do I know if my control board is bad?

Now that you know where the control board is and what it does, let's explain the top signs that your control board is malfunctioning.
  1. Illuminated Warning Lights. ...
  2. Immobilized Switches on the HVAC Control Board. ...
  3. Faulty Soldering Connections. ...
  4. Interrupted Sequencing. ...
  5. Temperature Regulation Issues.

What is the most common part to fail on a dishwasher?

The most common problem with a dishwasher is a lack of water flow or a clogged drain. This can be caused by blockages in the line, a faulty water inlet valve, or a broken pump motor.

What if the dishwasher control panel does not light up and I do have power at the electrical box?

Check the power supply to the appliance: If the dishwasher is connected to a plug socket check this by using another electrical device, such as a lamp. If another device does not work this would suggest that there is an issue with the electrical connection. A mains fuse may have tripped so this is worth checking.

What causes the dishwasher control panel to stop working?

There are several easy options that may be causing your dishwasher control panel to not work, including the following: The dishwasher control panel needs to be reset. The dishwasher control panel problem is caused by a lack of power. A child lock has been activated, causing your dishwasher control panel problems.

Does unplugging a dishwasher reset it?

Some models require you to shut off the power to the dishwasher either by unplugging it or shutting off the circuit breaker. Others are reset by pressing and holding the Start/Reset button on the control panel, then waiting a few moments before attempting to start a wash cycle.

Why is the bottom of my dishwasher filled with water?

The most common cause for a dishwasher not draining is a clog or obstruction in your dishwasher drain or nearby garbage disposal. Removing the blockage typically resolves the problem.

How much does it cost to replace a washer control board?

Control board repairs on washers can vary. Depending on the severity of the damage, this service will run anywhere from $150 to $300.

How do you test a washing machine control board?

Start by using a multimeter to test the washer motor control board. Examine the board's terminals for continuity. The board is probably working if there is continuity. The board has to be changed if there is no continuity.

Why do appliance control boards fail?

Electrical Surges

Often caused by lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the power grid, these surges can cause irreparable damage to the electronic components, leading to either immediate or gradual failure of the control board.

How much does it cost to replace a dishwasher control panel?

Dishwasher control panel repairs average $150 to $350, depending on the problem.

What is the life expectancy of a dishwasher?

The average life of a dishwasher is about ten years. 1 With extreme exposure to high-pressure water, acidic foods, and harsh cleaners, dishwashers can wear down even faster. "The usual lifespan is ten years.

Is it worth it to repair a 7 year old dishwasher?

If it is over ten years old, it might be time for a new one. When you factor in the energy efficiency of a newer machine, you may be saving yourself some money in the long run. However, if your machine is under six years old, then a repair might be the most cost-effective option.

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