Why is my dishwasher not going through the cycle?

Author: Alexandrea Bergstrom III  |  Last update: Friday, December 5, 2025

If you find your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, it could be due to several reasons, including a malfunctioning door latch, a defective control board, or even a power interruption.

Why won't my dishwasher run through the cycle?

Clogged Filter: A clogged dishwasher filter can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. Control Board Problems: A faulty control board can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle. Float Switch Issues: A malfunctioning float switch can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.

Why doesn't my dishwasher wash cycle?

Possible causes of a dishwasher not washing include an older, outdated appliance, dirty or clogged filters, water supply issues, improper dish loading and other problems.

Why does my dishwasher start then stop after a few minutes?

Most likely the wash motor. It used the wash motor to make sure it's empty before it starts filling.

What is the most common failure on a dishwasher?

Issues like leaks, poor drainage, unclean dishes, foul odors and overall appliance operation, though infrequent, can be the most common problems with a dishwasher that isn't operating properly. In some cases, you can resolve these issues with a little elbow grease and the help of your product manual.

✨ DISHWASHER STOPS MID-CYCLE (EASY FIX) ✨

How do I reset a dishwasher?

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.

What is the average life expectancy of a dishwasher?

The average lifespan of a dishwasher is approximately 8-10 years. However, the longevity of your appliance can vary based on multiple factors such as usage, brand, and maintenance.

Why is my dishwasher not starting but has power?

If the dishwasher won't start but has power, it could be stuck between cycles. If the start button has been pushed more than once, the dishwasher may revert to a drain cycle. To remedy this, allow the drain cycle to run, let it sit for 60 to 90 seconds, then press the start button once.

How do I get rid of the delay start on my dishwasher?

Canceling the Delay Start or Delay Hours Option

Press the Delay Start pad until the hours of delay indicator goes off. On most models, pressing and holding the Start or Start/Reset pad for 3 seconds will cancel any set cycle, including the Delay Start cycle.

Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher not going into the wash cycle?

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher won't wash are a faulty pump and motor assembly, defective electronic control board or a clogged spray arm.

How do you fix a dishwasher that isn't washing?

Off hand:
  1. clean the filter.
  2. clean the arms.
  3. make sure you use separate rinse aid (even if the detergent claims to do it, you still need it)
  4. make sure you scrape all the food scraps off the plates.
  5. run a dishwasher cleaner once a month.

Why won't my dishwasher advance to the next cycle?

This is often caused by objects that prevent the detergent cup from opening, which in turn, affects the Timer operation. Check for items in the racks that may be blocking the detergent cup. Make sure the detergent cup is fully closed at the start of a cycle and fully opened at the end of a cycle.

How do you unclog a dishwasher?

A mixture of equal parts baking soda and vinegar may unclog dishwasher drains. Pour the solution into the basket at the bottom and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, pour hot water down the basket and run the rinse cycle.

Why is my dishwasher turning on but not washing?

There are a few reasons why your dishwasher might not be cleaning effectively including a dirty filter, incorrect detergent, improper loading or the wrong cycle or water temperature. If your dishwasher has been maintained according to the owner's manual, it could be a simple reason and a quick fix.

How to fix a dishwasher stuck on cycle?

Press and hold the RESET / CANCEL button(s) (normally highlighted on the fascia) which should abort the cycle and drain the appliance. Refer to your dishwasher user manual. To cancel a previously selected program/delay start, press and hold the ON/OFF button for approximately 3 seconds.

Why does my dishwasher keep stopping during cycle?

Perform basic troubleshooting by cleaning the filter and spray arm. Also, ensure your dishwasher is getting sufficient water pressure. If you find your dishwasher stopping mid-cycle, it could be due to several reasons, including a malfunctioning door latch, a defective control board, or even a power interruption.

How do I fix my dishwasher not running?

When your dishwasher won't start, begin troubleshooting by looking at the most common causes: lack of power, broken door latch, defective timer switch, and blown thermal fuse. If it's not those things, you may need to replace the motor starter relay or drive motor instead.

When I press start on my dishwasher, nothing happens.?

Several factors can contribute to this, including: Power Issues: The dishwasher might not be plugged in, the circuit breaker could have tripped, or there might be a blown fuse. Door Latch: As mentioned earlier, if the door doesn't latch correctly, the dishwasher won't start as a safety measure.

What can cause a dishwasher to not work?

Your dishwasher not cleaning dishes can happen for a few reasons. Some problems are caused by food blockages, or issues with water temperature and volume, or a broken inlet valve.

How long do dishwashers last?

Average Lifespan of Dishwashers

According to reputed appliance repair technicians and manufacturers, the average home dishwasher lasts between 10 to 15 years with regular use and proper maintenance. Even an appliance from the best dishwasher brands will only last 15 to 20 years at most.

Is it worth it to fix a 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.

Which dishwasher brand lasts the longest?

As a leader in home and kitchen appliances, it's no surprise that Bosch dishwashers top many reliability reports. With over 50 years dedicated to dishwasher durability and engineering, Bosch builds dishwashing machines to last a minimum of 10 years.

Should I really run my dishwasher every night?

Note: For fire safety reasons, only run appliances like dishwashers while you're home, and try to avoid running them when you're sleeping. If you're not a night owl, consider running the machine early in the morning before you go to work to still snag the cost savings.

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