KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad Not Working

I’ve faced the issue of a KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad not working, and I can relate to how frustrating it can be. But what leads to this touchpad trouble in the first place?

In this guide, we’ll dive into these issues and provide you with straightforward DIY solutions to restore your touchpad’s functionality. Also we will provide in-depth solutions for KitchenAid dishwasher troubleshooting.

Ready to get things rolling? Let’s dive in!

Reasons Why KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad Not Working

Issue	Quick DIY Solution
1. Touchpad Unresponsive Due to Power Problems	Ensure the KitchenAid dishwasher is getting power from the power supply. Replace blown fuses or correct tripped circuit breaker. Also, ensure you connect unit to a working power outlet.
2. System or Software Glitch in Your Dishwasher	Try restarting your dishwasher. If that doesn’t work, attempt to reset the unit to resolve any system or software glitches.
3. Faulty or Non-Responsive Main Control Board	If the main control board is unresponsive or faulty, you’ll need to replace it with a new one to restore the touchpad’s functionality.
4. Control Lock Activated on Your Dishwasher	If the control lock is active, disable it to regain control of your touchpad and dishwasher settings.
5. Delay Option Selected on Your Dishwasher	If you’ve selected a delay start, simply wait until the programmed time is reached, or reset the dishwasher to initiate a new wash cycle.
6. Child Lock Feature Enabled on Your Dishwasher	Disable the child lock feature to ensure your touchpad functions correctly.
7. Defective Thermal Fuse in Your Dishwasher	If the thermal fuse is defective, replace it with a new one to ensure your dishwasher operates safely and efficiently.
8. Water Supply to Dishwasher Turned Off	Inspect the water supply system to make sure it’s turned on and properly connected, allowing water to flow into the dishwasher.
9. Blown Capacitor in Your Dishwasher	If the dishwasher’s capacitor has blown, acquire a replacement capacitor and install it to rectify the issue.
10. Loose or Damaged Wiring Connections	Examine the wiring connections in your dishwasher for any loose or damaged wires. Reconnect or repair them as needed to restore touchpad functionality.

1. Touchpad Unresponsive Due to Power Problems

The first step when your KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad isn’t working is to check its power connection.

Step 1: Confirm the power connection:

• Ensure your dishwasher is properly plugged in or connected to a power source.

Step 2: Investigate the circuit breaker:

• Check if the circuit breaker has tripped. If it has, gently reset it to the “on” position.

Step 3: Test the power supply:

• Turn off or unplug the dishwasher.
• Open the dishwasher door and, using a T15 Torx screwdriver, remove the screws securing the door panel and door latch.
• Partially close the door and carefully lift the front panel, setting it aside.
• Disconnect the touchpad wire harness from the main control board by releasing the locking tabs with a flat head screwdriver.
• Slide the case that holds the main control panel to the left to detach it from the mounting bracket.
• Remove both the small and long covers to free the wire harnesses.
• Employ a multimeter to test the white and black wires (the first wire harness on your left). Ensure they register a voltage of 125 volts.

2. System or Software Glitch in Your Dishwasher

Your KitchenAid dishwasher can sometimes encounter system glitches, which can result in touchpad issues. Fortunately, resolving this KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad problem is quite simple. Start by performing a system reset. Unplug your dishwasher from the power source, patiently wait for at least five minutes, and then plug it back in. This reset clears any lingering system errors that may be causing the touchpad to misbehave.

If, for some reason, the reset doesn’t do the trick, you can take the next step by running a KitchenAid dishwasher diagnostic. This diagnostic test will help pinpoint the exact error that’s behind the touchpad’s unresponsiveness. By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to troubleshooting and conquering those system glitches that might have been causing your touchpad troubles.

Related: KitchenAid Dishwasher Not Spraying Water

3. Faulty or Non-Responsive Main Control Board

Sometimes, the main control board could be the reason your KitchenAid dishwasher’s touchpad isn’t responding correctly.

Here’s what to do:

Step 1: Check the Power Flow

• First, ensure that power is flowing correctly from the main control board to the touchpad. If you find a loose cable connecting them, make sure it’s securely attached.

Step 2: Test the Main Control Board

• Begin by switching off the dishwasher or unplugging it to avoid any electrical hazards.
• Open the dishwasher door and remove any screws that hold it together.
• Open the console and disconnect the cable linking the touchpad to the main control panel.
• Examine each connection closely to ensure they are all in good condition.
• Reassemble the console, but don’t reconnect the touchpad cable just yet. Close the dishwasher door.
• Reconnect the dishwasher to the power source and wait for about 5 to 10 seconds before fully closing the dishwasher door.

Now, let’s observe how the control panel behaves:

• If the system activates the drain pump when the user interface is connected to the main control board, it’s a good sign that the main control board is functioning correctly, and the issue likely lies with the keypad.

In such a scenario, you’ll only need to replace the user interface (control panel).

To replace the user interface:

• Ensure there’s no power flowing into the dishwasher.
• Open the dishwasher door and remove all the screws.
• Disconnect and remove the faulty touchpad.
• Connect and install the new user interface.

Final Steps

Now, let’s wrap things up:

• Plug your dishwasher back into the power source and switch it on to test if everything is functioning properly.

However, if the dishwasher doesn’t initiate the drain pump, even after it fails to recognize the user interface, it indicates a faulty main control board that needs replacing.

To replace the main control board:

• Open the dishwasher door and use a T15 Torx screwdriver to remove the screws in the four corners of the door.
• Partially close the dishwasher door and gently lift the custom outer panel to detach it.
• Remove the remaining screws that secure the middle door panel and inner door panel.
• Release the white retaining pin, pull out the door panel, remove the door latch screws, and carefully lift out the control board.
• Disconnect the touchpad wire harness from the control panel for removal.
• Release the locking tabs using a flat head screwdriver and slide the main control board case to the left to detach it.
• Take off the small wire cover, release the long wire cover, and rotate it to detach it.
• Pay close attention to the orientation of the wire connectors and disconnect all the wires from the faulty main control board.
• Connect all the wire connectors to the new main control board.
• Reattach the long and small wire covers.
• Insert the control housing tabs into the slots in the mounting bracket and slide to the right to secure them.
• Reconnect the touchpad wire harness to the new board, align the panel, secure the door latch screws, and reinstall the outer door panel.
• Reinsert the retaining pin to secure the panel, and attach the screws to secure it.
• Reinstall the outer custom panel, sliding it until it aligns with the top of the control panel.
• Secure it with screws on the four corners of the dishwasher door.
• Finally, turn the power back on – your KitchenAid dishwasher is now ready to get back to work.

4. Control Lock Activated on Your Dishwasher

Is your KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad not working? It might be because the control lock is engaged or the appliance is in sleep mode.

The control lock serves a vital purpose: it prevents unintended changes while your dishwasher is in the middle of a cleaning cycle. You’ll know the control lock is active if you see its corresponding button lit up. When it’s on, all the buttons on the touchpad become unresponsive.

Similarly, if your dishwasher is in sleep mode, none of the touchpad options will work.

But don’t worry; it’s an easy fix. Here’s what to do:

1. Disable Sleep Mode:

• Open and close the dishwasher door.
• Then, press either the Cancel or Start/Resume button.

1. Deactivate Control Lock:

• To turn off the Lock Control function, press and hold the Lock button for about 5 seconds or until the lock light goes out.

5. Delay Option Selected on Your Dishwasher

If your KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad isn’t responding, it might be because the delay option is in play.

To be crystal clear, the delay function isn’t a sign that something’s wrong with your dishwasher. Quite the opposite – it’s a feature! When you set the delay option on your KitchenAid dishwasher, it won’t start the wash cycle until the specified delay period has passed.

To restore normal functionality to your dishwasher, follow these straightforward steps. First, turn off the delay function by pressing the Cancel/Drain button. Then, to initiate a new wash cycle, press the Start/Resume button. By following these simple instructions, you can deactivate the delay option and have your dishwasher up and running smoothly once again.

6. Child Lock Feature Enabled on Your Dishwasher

If you’re facing an unresponsive touchpad on your KitchenAid dishwasher, it might be due to the child lock being activated.

The child lock feature serves a crucial role, ensuring the safety of both your dishwasher and your child. Similar to the control lock, when the child lock is engaged, it deactivates all other buttons, which is why the touchpad appears unresponsive.

To restore the functionality of your touchpad, it’s as simple as disabling the child lock. By doing so, you can swiftly get your touchpad working again.

7. Defective Thermal Fuse in Your Dishwasher

Sometimes, your KitchenAid dishwasher’s touchpad may refuse to cooperate due to a blown or faulty thermal fuse.

When the thermal fuse blows, it interrupts the power supply, rendering the dishwasher unable to function. Therefore, it’s crucial to examine the fuse before considering replacing the current touchpad.

By doing so, you can identify whether the thermal fuse is indeed the issue behind your touchpad troubles and take appropriate action.

8. Water Supply to Dishwasher Turned Off

If you’ve been pressing the power button on your KitchenAid dishwasher repeatedly, but it just won’t start, it’s time to check the water supply.

Here’s the deal: no matter how many times you try, your dishwasher won’t turn on if the water supply is switched off. Before you kick off any dishwasher operation, make sure that the water supply system for the unit is turned on and ready to go. It’s a simple step, but it’s essential for a smooth and successful start.

9. Blown Capacitor in Your Dishwasher

Here’s the scoop: a capacitor in your dishwasher’s electrical system stores and releases energy. But sometimes, in the process of doing its job, it might go bad and disrupt the touchpad’s function.

If you suspect that a faulty capacitor is the reason behind your touchpad troubles, the solution is straightforward. Get a new capacitor for replacement. This will help restore your dishwasher’s electrical balance and get that touchpad working smoothly again.

10. Loose or Damaged Wiring Connections

Another potential cause for a malfunctioning KitchenAid dishwasher touchpad could be loose or damaged wiring connections.

When wires are loose or damaged, they can disrupt the electrical flow needed for the touchpad to function properly. To address this issue, you should carefully inspect all the wiring connections within your dishwasher. Look for any loose or frayed wires. If you find any, reattach or replace them as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What to do when KitchenAid Dishwasher no lights on control panel?

When your KitchenAid dishwasher’s control panel displays no lights, it’s essential to start by checking the power source. Make sure the dishwasher is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the power supply is stable, you should then inspect the control lock and child lock functions, as either of these being active can cause the control panel problems or to appear unresponsive. If none of these solutions work, it may be a sign of a deeper electrical issue, and you should consider consulting a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.

2. How much does it cost to replace a KitchenAid dishwasher control panel?

The cost to replace a KitchenAid dishwasher control panel can vary depending on several factors, including the model of your dishwasher and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional technician. On average, the replacement control panel itself can range from $150 to $450 or more. If you opt for professional installation, labor costs can add to the total. It’s advisable to check with your local appliance parts supplier or request a quote from a technician for a more precise estimate based on your specific model and location.

3. How do I reset my KitchenAid dishwasher control panel?

If you’re wondering whether you can reset a KitchenAid dishwasher control board, the answer is yes, and it’s remarkably straightforward. Here’s how: unplug the dishwasher from its power source, then patiently wait for 1 to 2 minutes. During this brief interlude, the system will reset itself. Afterward, simply plug the dishwasher back into the power supply.

4. What Causes a Dishwasher Control Panel to Stop Working?

A dishwasher control panel can stop working due to electrical issues, software glitches, faulty components like the main control board or touchpad, and the activation of control locks or delay options. Loose or damaged wiring connections can also be a culprit. Identifying the specific cause is essential for the right solution.

Final Words

In conclusion, when faced with a KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad Not Working issue, it’s vital to perform KitchenAid dishwasher troubleshooting. Explore power supply, control board, and lock functions as potential causes. By understanding the common culprits and their solutions, you can swiftly restore your KitchenAid dishwasher to its full functionality.