Home appliances troubleshooting

Dishwasher will not start

A power problem, unlatched door, control lock, delayed start, interrupted cycle, or failed switch or control can prevent a dishwasher from running.

Updated Jul 17, 20265 minute guideDishwasher
Guided check

Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.

0/4 checked

1. What best matches what you observe?

2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.

4 user-level checks are available in this guide.Stop immediately if any warning condition applies.
Show stop conditions
  • The breaker trips again
  • The junction box, cord, or outlet is hot
  • There is burning odor, smoke, or arcing

Likely causes

  • The circuit, plug, or local switch is off
  • The door is not latched correctly
  • Control lock or delay start is active
  • The previous cycle needs to be cancelled or reset
  • The latch switch, control, or power component has failed

Quick checks, in order

Confirm electrical supply

Check the breaker, plug where accessible, and any wall or under-sink switch.

safe

Open and close the door firmly

Remove racks or dishes that prevent full closure.

safe

Cancel control lock and delay

Use the panel labels or model manual.

safe

Reset the cycle once

Use Cancel/Drain or disconnect power briefly according to the manual.

safe

What response do you get?

No lights or sounds

Focus on the breaker, switch, plug, junction connection, and control power.

Lights work but Start does nothing

Door-latch feedback, control lock, delay start, or a press-and-hold requirement is likely.

It starts then stops

Door movement, water supply, a detected leak, or another fault may interrupt operation.

Stop and get qualified help when

Do not continue troubleshooting if any of these apply:
  • The breaker trips again
  • The junction box, cord, or outlet is hot
  • There is burning odor, smoke, or arcing

Frequently asked questions

Why does closing the door not start the cycle?

Some models require Start to be pressed before closing; others require the door to latch within a short time after pressing Start.

Can a dishwasher have a hidden power switch?

Yes. Some installations use a nearby wall switch or a switch inside the sink cabinet.

Keep diagnosing

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