Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.
1. What best matches what you observe?
2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.
Show stop conditions
- Broken glass may be present
- The sound is accompanied by burning odor or leakage
- Pump access requires panel or sump disassembly
Likely causes
- A spray arm is hitting a utensil or tall item
- Hard debris or broken glass is near the filter or pump cover
- The drain or circulation pump is obstructed
- The machine is running with insufficient water
- A pump bearing or motor component is worn
Quick checks, in order
Stop the cycle and inspect loading
Move utensils and tall items away from all spray-arm paths.
Rotate the spray arms by hand
With power off, confirm they move freely and are not cracked or loose.
Inspect the removable filter area
Disconnect power and use gloves; do not reach into an undocumented pump opening.
Confirm the dishwasher fills
A pump operating with too little water can sound unusually harsh.
When is the sound loudest?
Check spray-arm contact, fill level, and circulation-pump obstruction.
Focus on the drain pump, filter area, hose, and debris.
A loose arm, rack, or physical obstruction is likely.
Stop and get qualified help when
- Broken glass may be present
- The sound is accompanied by burning odor or leakage
- Pump access requires panel or sump disassembly
Frequently asked questions
Can a seed or piece of glass cause grinding?
Yes. Small hard objects can reach the filter or pump area and make intermittent noise.
Is a brief grinding sound always a failure?
Some pumps make a short change in sound during cycle transitions, but new, loud, or persistent grinding should be investigated.