How to Replace the Control Panel on a Whirlpool Dishwasher

Dishwasher Control Panel

Nearly every appliance in the home today is controlled by an electronic control panel. Whirlpool dishwashers are no exception. As with any electronic or mechanical devise, electronically controlled appliances are prone to require service from time to time because of a control panel failure. Often, a professional appliance technician is called out to facilitate the repair at a nominal expense. You can avoid the additional costs associated with a professional service by replacing the control panel yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement dishwasher control panel
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Philips screwdriver

Instructions

Replacing Whirlpool Dishwasher Control Panel

1. Remove the fuse or turn off the breaker at the lighting panel circuit for the dishwasher. Once power is removed, test the dishwasher by trying to turn it on to ensure the proper circuit has been disconnected.

2. Open the door partially to access the screws on the inside. Remove the two screws securing the door latch using the appropriate screwdriver from the inside of the door, and set them aside.

3. Remove the four screws (two on each side) that secure the control panel to the dishwasher from the inside of the dishwasher door. Set screws aside for later use.

4. Remove the dishwasher control panel by slightly pulling it up and away from the door. Three control wire bundles are plugged into the back of the control panel with enough slack to allow for the panel to be pulled away from the dishwasher door. Have a second person hold the control panel for the next step.

5. Remove the plastic circuit board cover from the back of the control panel by using the screwdriver to release the four tabs that secure the cover in place.

6. With the protective cover removed, unplug the three connector plugs from the back of the control panel. Once the plugs are removed, the control panel will be free from the dishwasher door.

7. Remove the door latch from the old dishwasher control panel by sliding it forward and out of its position in the panel.

8. Re-insert the latch into the new control panel by pushing it into the fitted receiver. Once latch is installed fully, door latch will remain in place.

9. Plug the three electrical plugs into their respective sockets on the back of the control panel. Each plug will only fit into its own socket.

10. Place the new control panel onto the dishwasher door and line up screw holes from the door into the dishwasher panel. Re-install the four screws (two on each side) into the inside of the dishwasher door to secure the control panel to the door.

11. Insert the two screws from the inside of the door to secure the door latch into the control panel.

12. Replace the fuse or turn the breaker on at the lighting panel providing power to the dishwasher. Test that power has been applied to the dishwasher by function testing the control panel. The dishwasher is now ready for service.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the model number for the dishwasher directly from the tag located on the inside of the dishwasher door to ensure you order the correct part.

• Always ensure power is disconnected or turned off to an electrical device or appliance before performing any repairs.

References

• Appliance Parts Pros: Whirlpool Dishwasher Repair Help and Parts