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HomeRepair HelpUniversal Dishwasher RepairUniversal Dishwasher buttons/controls not working Repair

Universal Dishwasher buttons/controls not working

If your dishwasher buttons are not working, start with the control panel and touchpad, especially if the display still lights up but some buttons do not respond. A faulty touchpad and control panel is the most common cause of a dishwasher control panel not working, followed by a failed touchpad on models where it can be replaced separately. If the dishwasher is completely dead with no lights or sound, check for an incoming power problem first, including a tripped breaker, GFCI, or blown fuse. It is also worth making sure the dishwasher is not in lock mode, child lock, Sabbath mode, or demo mode, since any of those can make it seem like the dishwasher controls are not working. If the buttons still will not respond, inspect the door latch and door switch or microswitch, because the dishwasher may not start if the latch is not signaling that the door is closed. Only after checking those parts should you suspect the main control board. If your dishwasher touchpad is not responding or the start button is not working, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement touchpad, control panel, door latch, or main control board for your specific dishwasher.

01 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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.
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06 - Universal 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.
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Highly Likely

07 - Universal 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my dishwasher buttons not working even though the display lights up?
My dishwasher has power but will not start. Could the door latch be the reason?
Why is my dishwasher control panel not working at all with no lights or sound?
Could my dishwasher be locked instead of broken?
How do I find the right dishwasher touchpad, control panel, or door latch for my model?

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