If your Kenmore dishwasher is displaying an error code, don’t worry you’re not alone. These codes are designed to alert you to specific issues, making it easier to diagnose and fix problems. Below is a comprehensive guide to understanding these codes and how to address them with confidence.
Kenmore Dishwasher Error Codes Guide
| Error Code | Description | Possible Causes | Troubleshooting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-1 (or F1E1) | Stuck relay on the main electronic control unit | This indicates an issue with the control board. | Try resetting the dishwasher by turning off the power at the breaker for a few minutes. If the code returns, it likely needs professional repair. |
| 1-2 (or F1E2) | Faulty main electronic control unit | The control board itself might be malfunctioning. | Similar to 1-1, try a reset first. If it persists, the control board may need replacement. |
| 2-1 (or F2E1) | Jammed button on the user interface control | A button on the control panel might be stuck. | Try pressing all the buttons to see if any are stuck. If so, you might be able to carefully dislodge it. Otherwise, the control panel might need replacement. |
| 3-1 (or F3E1) | Thermistor or OWI sensor malfunction | The thermistor (temperature sensor) or OWI (Optical Water Indicator) sensor is having problems. | These sensors might need to be checked or replaced by a technician. |
| 3-2 (or F3E2) | Thermistor or OWI sensor malfunction | Similar to 3-1, it’s a sensor issue. | Professional help is usually needed. |
| 4-4 (or F4E4) | The electronic control unit fails to communicate | There’s a communication problem between the control board and other components. | This often requires a technician to diagnose and fix the communication issue. |
| 5-1 (or F5E1) | Door switch failure | The dishwasher isn’t detecting that the door is closed properly. | Make sure the door is fully closed and latched. If the problem continues, the door switch might need replacement. |
| E24 | Drainage problem | This is a common code, often indicating a clogged drain hose, filter, or pump. | Check for blockages in the drain hose and filter. You might need to clean or replace them. |
| E25 | Drain pump issue | The drain pump itself might be malfunctioning. | This often requires a technician to diagnose and repair or replace the pump. |
| F9 | Overflow or overfill | The dishwasher has too much water. | This could be due to a faulty water inlet valve or water level sensor. |
Important Notes
- “PF” Code: This usually indicates a power failure during a cycle.
- Combined Codes: Sometimes you might see a combination of codes (like “PF, C1”), indicating multiple issues.
- Resetting: Always try resetting the dishwasher at the breaker before diving into more complex troubleshooting.
Where to find more information
- Kenmore Website: The official Kenmore website might have some troubleshooting guides.
- User Manual: Your dishwasher’s user manual is the best source for model-specific error code information.
- Appliance Repair Websites: Websites like RepairClinic, AppliancePartsPros, and Sears PartsDirect often have detailed information about dishwasher error codes and troubleshooting tips.
Professional Help
If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting dishwasher problems yourself, or if the error code persists after basic troubleshooting, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They can properly diagnose the issue and get your Kenmore dishwasher running smoothly again.
Important Note: Kenmore dishwashers are often made by other manufacturers (like Whirlpool or LG) and rebranded. So, some of these codes might overlap with those brands.