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Thermador Dishwasher buttons/controls not working

If your Thermador dishwasher buttons are not working, start with the most common cause: a failed touchpad and control panel. When the display is working but only some buttons respond, the touchpad, control panel, or a combined touchpad and control panel assembly is usually the problem. If the display is on and certain keys still do nothing, the touchpad itself is also a likely fault. Before replacing parts, make sure the dishwasher is actually getting power, since a tripped breaker, GFCI, or blown fuse can make it seem like the dishwasher control panel is not working. Also check whether lock mode, Sabbath mode, or Demo mode has been turned on, since that can make a Thermador dishwasher touchpad not responding look like a part failure. If the controls still will not start a cycle, inspect the door latch and door switch, because a bad latch can keep the unit from recognizing that the door is closed. The main control board is another possible cause, but it is less common. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact Thermador replacement part for your specific dishwasher.

01 - Thermador Dishwasher Touchpad and Control Panel

First, ensure that the display works. If the dishwasher display is working but the some of the button don’t respond correctly, the touchpad and control panel might need to be replaced. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
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02 - Thermador Dishwasher Touchpad

First, confirm that the dishwasher display is working. If the display is still working, try pressing some of the touchpad buttons. If some of the buttons respond correctly but others don’t, it is likely that the touchpad is at fault. (Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel. Other manufacturers require that you purchase the touchpad and control panel together. If you cannot replace the touchpad individually, replace the touchpad and control panel.)
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03 - Incoming Power Problem

If there are no indicator lights or any noise from the dishwasher when it is turned on, it is likely that power is not reaching the dishwasher. Check the circuit breakers and GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets, if applicable, to confirm they have not tripped, or inspect any fuses to confirm none have blown. Plugging the unit’s power cord into a ground fault outlet is not recommended, but such an outlet can be reset to restore power by pressing in the button on the faceplate.
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04 - Dishwasher in lock mode

Many dishwashers have a child lock or “Sabbath” feature which will prevent the buttons from being used when the feature is engaged. The dishwasher could also be in “Demo” mode or another mode which prevents full operation. Consult the dishwasher’s user manual for information regarding locking/unlocking the control panel.
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05 - Thermador Dishwasher Door Latch

If the dishwasher buttons aren't working, it's possible the door latch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from being started. Inspect the door latch for any damage. you can also use a multimeter to test the micro switch inside the door latch for electrical continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, the switch or latch assembly should be replaced.
Highly Likely

06 - Thermador Dishwasher Main Control Board

The main control board regulates nearly every function in the dishwasher. If there is a problem with the main control board, it might not send voltage to the dishwasher touchpad, causing the touchpad buttons not to work. Control boards are often misdiagnosed; make sure you test more commonly defective parts before replacing the main control board.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Thermador dishwasher buttons not working even though the display is on?
My Thermador dishwasher has power but will not start. Could the door latch be the problem?
What should I check first if my Thermador dishwasher control panel is not working at all?
How do I know if the main control board is bad on my Thermador dishwasher?
How do I find the right Thermador dishwasher touchpad, control panel, or door latch for my model?

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