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RCA Dishwasher buttons/controls not working

If your RCA dishwasher buttons are not working, start with the control area itself. On this symptom, the most common fix is a failed touchpad and control panel, especially if the display works but some buttons do not respond. A bad touchpad can cause the same problem, and on some models the touchpad and control panel are replaced together. If the dishwasher control panel is not working at all, check for an incoming power problem next by inspecting the breaker, fuse, or GFCI outlet. It is also worth making sure the unit is not in lock mode, child lock, Sabbath mode, or demo mode, since those settings can make it seem like the dishwasher touchpad is not responding. After that, inspect the door latch and door switch. If the latch is damaged or the microswitch has no continuity, the dishwasher may have power but not start. The main control board is another possible cause, but it is less likely than the parts above and is often misdiagnosed. Enter your RCA dishwasher model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement touchpad, control panel, door latch, or main control board for your machine.

01 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 RCA dishwasher buttons not working even though the display is on?
My RCA dishwasher has power but will not start. Could the door latch be the problem?
How do I reset an RCA dishwasher control panel that is not responding?
Should I replace the main control board if my RCA dishwasher control panel is not working?
How do I find the right RCA dishwasher touchpad, control panel, or door latch for my model?