Kenmore Dishwasher Won't Start — Causes & Fixes

<p>A Kenmore [dishwasher](/blog/repair-or-replace-dishwasher) experiencing wont start is one of the most frequently reported service issues for this brand. Whether you own a newer model or a unit that is several years old, this guide walks you through the brand-specific causes, model-by-model diagnostic differences, and the repair costs you can expect. Kenmore appliances have unique engineering choices that make generic troubleshooting guides insufficient — this guide focuses on what actually goes wrong in Kenmore units specifically.</p> <h2>Quick Answer</h2> <p>The most common causes of wont start in Kenmore dishwashers are: Control Lock activated; Door latch microswitch failure; Blown thermal fuse. Estimated repair cost varies by model and condition.</p> <h2>Affected Kenmore Models</h2> <p>This issue is most commonly reported on the following Kenmore dishwasher models:</p> <ul> <li><strong>665.13543N413 (Whirlpool-made — most common platform)</strong></li> <li><strong>665.13699N412 (Whirlpool — Control Lock feature)</strong></li> <li><strong>587.15112500 (Electrolux-made — different control system)</strong></li> <li><strong>665.13543N414 (Whirlpool — same platform, newer year)</strong></li> </ul> <h2>What Are the Common Causes?</h2> <h3>1. Control Lock activated</h3> <p>Kenmore/Whirlpool-platform (665.xxx) dishwashers have a Control Lock feature that disables all buttons; pressing and holding the designated button for 3 seconds deactivates it</p> <p>When our technicians encounter this on a Kenmore, control lock activated turns out to be the root cause more often than not.</p> <h3>2. Door latch microswitch failure</h3> <p>the safety interlock switch in the door latch assembly prevents operation if the door is not fully latched; switch contacts corrode over time</p> <h3>3. Blown thermal fuse</h3> <p>excessive heat from a malfunctioning heating element or blocked vent blows the thermal fuse, cutting power to the control board</p> <h3>4. Control board failure</h3> <p>power surges damage relay contacts on the main control board; the display may light up but pressing Start has no effect</p> <h3>5. Water supply valve closed</h3> <p>some Kenmore models detect low water flow during initial fill and abort the cycle start to protect the pump</p> <h2>Step-by-Step Troubleshooting</h2> <p>Before starting any troubleshooting on your Kenmore dishwasher, disconnect power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit. For gas appliances, turn off the gas supply valve as well.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Identify your exact model:</strong> Locate the model number on the serial plate (typically inside the door frame, on the rear panel, or under the lid). Kenmore uses this to determine the exact parts and diagnostic procedures for your unit.</li> <li><strong>Check for error codes:</strong> If your Kenmore dishwasher has a digital display, note any error codes shown. These codes narrow the diagnosis to a specific component or system.</li> <li><strong>Inspect for control lock activated:</strong> Based on the most common failure for this symptom, check this component first. Inspect this component following the diagnostic steps specific to your model.</li> <li><strong>Inspect for door latch microswitch failure:</strong> Based on the most common failure for this symptom, check this component first. Inspect this component following the diagnostic steps specific to your model.</li> <li><strong>Inspect for blown thermal fuse:</strong> Based on the most common failure for this symptom, check this component first. Inspect this component following the diagnostic steps specific to your model.</li> <li><strong>Test appliance operation:</strong> After addressing any obvious issues found during inspection, restore power and run a test cycle. Monitor for the first 10-15 minutes to see if the symptom recurs.</li> </ol> <h2>When Should You Call a Professional?</h2> <p>Contact a certified appliance repair technician if:</p> <ul> <li>The issue persists after basic troubleshooting steps above</li> <li>You notice electrical burning smell, sparking, or any sign of electrical damage</li> <li>The repair requires accessing gas connections or high-voltage components</li> <li>Your Kenmore dishwasher is within warranty — professional diagnosis preserves warranty coverage</li> </ul> <p>EasyBear technicians carry Kenmore OEM parts and model-specific diagnostic tools on every service call, eliminating return visits for parts ordering.</p> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <h3>How do I find out who made my Kenmore dishwasher?</h3> <p>The first three digits of the model number identify the manufacturer: 665 = Whirlpool (vast majority of Kenmore dishwashers), 587 = Electrolux/Frigidaire. This determines which parts to order and which diagnostic procedures to follow. Look for the model number on the interior door frame.</p> <h3>How do I reset a Kenmore dishwasher?</h3> <p>Turn off the dishwasher circuit breaker for 60 seconds, then restore power. On 665-series (Whirlpool) models, this clears error codes and resets the control board. For a more thorough reset, press Hi-Temp Wash + Heated Dry + Hi-Temp Wash + Heated Dry (alternating) within 6 seconds to enter diagnostic mode, then press Cancel to exit and reset.</p> <h3>Kenmore dishwasher lights come on but won't start — what's wrong?</h3> <p>If the display or lights work but pressing Start does nothing: (1) Check for the Control Lock icon — hold the Lock button for 3 seconds. (2) Verify the door latch is fully engaged — push the door firmly until you hear a click. (3) Check for Delay Start — a countdown on the display means a delayed cycle is set. (4) If none of these apply, the control board relay that powers the wash motor has likely failed.</p> <p><em>Still having issues with your Kenmore dishwasher? <a href="/book">Book an EasyBear technician</a> for expert Kenmore [dishwasher repair](/bay-area/services/dishwasher-repair). Our technicians carry OEM parts and brand-specific diagnostic equipment.</em></p>