How to Remove a Dishwasher Control Panel

A dishwasher's operating devices are generally inside the control panel.

Many of your dishwasher's operating control devices are inside the control panel. When parts must be tested, you need to know how to remove a dishwasher control panel. Be careful when removing the control panels because of all the wires connected inside the panel. By properly labeling wires before removing them, the reinstallation process will go more smoothly.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Masking tape
• Torx driver set

Instructions

Whirlpool/KitchenAid Undercounter Models

1. Disconnect the power supply to the dishwasher by turning off the circuit breaker. The circuit breaker to the dishwasher is inside your home electrical panel.

2. Open the dishwasher door and hold your hand under the center of the control panel. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, remove the six screws from the upper inside door panel that secure the control panel to the dishwasher.

3. Pull the control panel forward to disengage it from the dishwasher door. Be careful because the control panel will still be connected with wires leading to the components inside.

4. Label each of the wiring harnesses with masking tape. The wiring harnesses look like blocks of white plastic with wires inserted. Remove each harness from the back of the control panel. To remove harnesses, press in on the locking tabs and pull them apart. For wires that slip over component terminals, use needle-nose pliers to pull the wire leads off of the terminal ends.

5. Pull the control panel completely away from the dishwasher.

Maytag Models

1. Open the dishwasher door and remove the Torx screws securing the inner door panel, using a Torx driver. Pull the inner door panel apart from the outer door panel. Label the dispenser wax motor wire with masking tape and remove the wire from the inner door panel, with a pair of needle-nose pliers. The wire will be red and connected from the control panel to the motor. Set the inner door panel out of the way.

2. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screw securing the PC board housing cover to the control console. Loosen, but do not remove, the two screws that secure the PC board base to the control panel. Label and remove the pin and ribbon connectors from the PC board. Press in on the side tabs of the PC board housing and remove the board.

3. Close the dishwasher door enough that you can access the four outer screws that secure the control panel to the door. Remove the four retaining screws with a screwdriver and lift the control panel off of the dishwasher door.

Tips & Warnings

• Always disconnect the power source from appliances before attempting repairs.

References

• Whirlpool Service Manual
• KitchenAid Service Manual
• Maytag Service Manual