GE Dishwasher Door Switch Replacement

ID: 218473

Description: [youtubevideo|zo5n478mZ8s]Use this guide to...

Steps:

  1. Use the front controls only while the dishwasher is powered on for diagnostics.
  2. Don't move the dishwasher, remove the switch, or touch internal wiring while the power is on.
  3. Turn off the dishwasher breaker or unplug the dishwasher before opening the switch area.
  4. Shut off the water supply if a water line must be disconnected or if any line may be stretched while moving the dishwasher.
  5. Wear work gloves when reaching around cabinet edges or the dishwasher frame.
  6. Place the dishwasher in standby or cycle selection mode.
  7. Press and hold the Cycle Select and Start pads together for 5 seconds.
  8. Watch the control panel after the lights turn on.
  9. Flashing lights mean the control board reads the door as open.
  10. If the door is closed and the diagnostic still reports an open door, the door switch is the likely fault.
  11. Open the dishwasher door.
  12. Locate the model number tag on the side of the dishwasher opening.
  13. Use the exact model number to cross-check the replacement door switch.
  14. Choose a GE genuine replacement switch that is listed as compatible with the model number.
  15. Find the small latch probe on the door.
  16. Locate the door switch in the dishwasher frame where the latch probe enters.
  17. The latch probe operates contacts inside the switch so the control board knows the door is closed.
  18. Worn, corroded, or aged contacts can make the dishwasher think the door is open.
  19. Turn off the dishwasher breaker or unplug the dishwasher.
  20. Use a screwdriver to remove the side mounting screws from the gray slots that hold the dishwasher to the cabinet.
  21. Lower the leveling feet to give the dishwasher clearance.
  22. Pull the dishwasher forward only as far as the wiring, drain hose, and water line allow.
  23. Leave the plumbing connected only if the lines are long, flexible, and not under tension.
  24. Inspect the cabinet area if the dishwasher won't slide out fully.
  25. Do not tear into the cabinet to remove a hidden block or non-standard bracket.
  26. Pull the dishwasher forward enough to reach the door switch at the top center area.
  27. The door switch is held by two screws and has a wire loom on the back.
  28. Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the door switch.
  29. Pull the switch out far enough to access the wire connector on the back.
  30. Do not yank the switch, because the wire connector and loom are still attached.
  31. Hold the new door switch next to the old door switch before disconnecting the old one completely.
  32. Compare the part numbers on both switches.
  33. Different date codes are okay if the part numbers and connector shape match.
  34. Confirm the new switch visually matches the old switch.
  35. Find the small release tab on the back of the wire connector.
  36. Press the tab and pull the connector out of the old switch.
  37. Push the wire connector into the new switch until it fits firmly.
  38. Set the old switch aside for proper disposal or recycling.
  39. Slide the new switch behind the trim piece and into its groove.
  40. Align the switch so it sits flush with the top of the dishwasher frame.
  41. Start both screws by hand so they enter the plastic straight.
  42. The screws cut their own threads into the plastic.
  43. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws until snug.
  44. Do not overtighten the screws, or the plastic may crack.
  45. The screws may barely poke through the top of the plastic when tightened correctly.
  46. Check that the switch feels tight and springy when the latch operates it.
  47. Close the dishwasher door and confirm the latch feels solid.
  48. Restore power at the breaker while the dishwasher is still accessible.
  49. Start a short test cycle and listen for water moving inside the dishwasher.
  50. Cancel the cycle promptly after confirming it starts, and let the dishwasher drain.
  51. Turn the breaker off again before pushing the dishwasher back into the cabinet.
  52. Slide the dishwasher back into the cabinet while keeping the power cord, drain hose, and water line from pinching or kinking.
  53. Raise or adjust the leveling feet as needed.
  54. Use a level to check the dishwasher if the feet were adjusted.
  55. Use a screwdriver to reinstall the side mounting screws in the gray slots.
  56. Restore power and check that the door opens, closes, and latches normally.
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