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Magic Chef Dishwasher buttons/controls not working

If your Magic Chef dishwasher buttons not working issue comes down to a few keys responding while others do not, the most likely problem is the touchpad and control panel or the touchpad itself. On many models, the touchpad is built into the control panel, so you may need to replace the full control panel assembly rather than just the keypad. If the Magic Chef dishwasher control panel not working situation includes no lights or no response at all, check for an incoming power problem first by inspecting the breaker, fuse, or GFCI outlet. A child lock, Sabbath mode, or demo mode can also make it seem like the dishwasher touchpad not responding when the controls are actually locked out. If the panel powers up but the cycle will not start, inspect the door latch and door switch microswitch, since a failed latch can keep the controls from working properly. The main control board is another possible cause, but it is less common and should be checked after the touchpad, control panel, power supply, and latch. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact Magic Chef replacement part for your dishwasher.

01 - Magic Chef Dishwasher Touchpad

First, confirm that the dishwasher display is working. If the display is still working, try pressing some of the touchpad buttons. If some of the buttons respond correctly but others don’t, it is likely that the touchpad is at fault. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
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02 - Magic Chef Dishwasher Touchpad and Control Panel

First, ensure that the display works. If the dishwasher display is working but the some of the button don’t respond correctly, the touchpad and control panel might need to be replaced. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
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03 - Incoming Power Problem

If there are no indicator lights or any noise from the dishwasher when it is turned on, it is likely that power is not reaching the dishwasher. Check the circuit breakers and GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets, if applicable, to confirm they have not tripped, or inspect any fuses to confirm none have blown. Plugging the unit’s power cord into a ground fault outlet is not recommended, but such an outlet can be reset to restore power by pressing in the button on the faceplate.
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04 - Dishwasher in lock mode

Many dishwashers have a child lock or “Sabbath” feature which will prevent the buttons from being used when the feature is engaged. The dishwasher could also be in “Demo” mode or another mode which prevents full operation. Consult the dishwasher’s user manual for information regarding locking/unlocking the control panel.
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05 - Magic Chef Dishwasher Door Latch

If the dishwasher buttons aren't working, it's possible the door latch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from being started. Inspect the door latch for any damage. you can also use a multimeter to test the micro switch inside the door latch for electrical continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, the switch or latch assembly should be replaced.
Highly Likely

06 - Magic Chef Dishwasher Main Control Board

The main control board regulates nearly every function in the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the main control board, it might not send voltage to the dishwasher touchpad, causing the touchpad buttons not to work. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure you test more commonly defective parts before replacing the main control board.
Highly Likely

07 - Magic Chef Dishwasher Control Board

The control board regulates nearly every function in the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the control board, it might not send voltage to the dishwasher touchpad, causing the touchpad buttons not to work. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure you test more commonly defective parts before replacing the control board.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the buttons not working on my Magic Chef dishwasher if the display still lights up?
My Magic Chef dishwasher has power but will not start. Could the door latch be the problem?
How do I reset a Magic Chef dishwasher control panel that is locked or not responding?
What should I check first if my Magic Chef dishwasher control panel is completely dead?
How do I find the correct touchpad, control panel, door latch, or main control board for my Magic Chef dishwasher?