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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Dishwasher RepairKitchenAid Dishwasher starts on its own Repair
KitchenAid Dishwasher starts on its own
If your KitchenAid dishwasher starts on its own, the problem is usually in the controls, not the wash system. The most likely cause is a shorted touchpad and control panel assembly, followed by a failed touchpad, a defective control panel with a stuck relay, or a shorted user control and display board. In many cases, a KitchenAid dishwasher that turns on by itself or starts without pressing start will also show other control issues, like buttons that only work sometimes or a dishwasher touchpad not responding at all. A dishwasher control panel short can send the wrong signals and make the unit begin a cycle on its own. A quick check is to press each button and see if some fail to respond, which points to the touchpad or control panel. If the user control and display board has shorted, it can also cause the dishwasher starts on its own symptom and will need replacement. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact KitchenAid replacement part for your dishwasher, whether that is the touchpad, control panel, or user control and display board.
01 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad and Control Panel
If the dishwasher is starting on its own, part of the touchpad may have shorted. To determine if the touchpad is at fault, try pressing various buttons on the touchpad. If some of the buttons don’t respond, the touchpad might be defective. (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 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Touchpad
If the dishwasher is starting on its own, part of the touchpad may have shorted. To determine if the touchpad is at fault, try pressing various buttons on the touchpad. If some of the buttons don’t respond, the touchpad might be defective. (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 - KitchenAid Dishwasher Control Panel
If the dishwasher is starting on its own, a relay in the control panel may have shorted. Try pressing various buttons on the control panel touchpad. If some of the buttons don’t respond, the control panel is likely defective. (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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04 - KitchenAid Dishwasher User Control and Display Board
A dishwasher's user control and display board allows the user to select a wash and drying cycle and start the appliance. If the dishwasher is starting on its own, it's possible the board has shorted and will need to be replaced with a new one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my KitchenAid dishwasher start on its own?
My KitchenAid dishwasher has power but starts by itself. Is the control board bad?
How do I tell if the dishwasher touchpad is bad?
Can I test a dishwasher control panel or touchpad with a multimeter?
How do I find the right KitchenAid dishwasher control panel or touchpad part?
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