A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in any kitchen. When it stops draining, leaks water, fails to clean dishes properly, or won't start at all, professional repair can often restore it to like-new condition at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
The total cost of dishwasher repair depends on the failed component, the complexity of the repair, and the time required to diagnose and fix the problem. Below are some of the most common dishwasher repairs, their average labor costs, and the main factors that affect dishwasher repair costs.
If your dishwasher finishes a cycle but leaves standing water at the bottom, a faulty drain pump may be preventing proper drainage.
The drain pump removes wastewater from the tub at the end of each cycle. When it fails, water can remain inside the appliance and create unpleasant odors. Similar drainage symptoms may also be related to a clogged drain hose or blocked air gap or check valve.
Average Labor Cost: $179–$249
The circulation pump is responsible for spraying water through the spray arms during the wash cycle.
When the wash motor fails, dishes may come out dirty, detergent may not dissolve properly, or the dishwasher may become unusually noisy. Poor cleaning can also be connected to spray arm problems.
Average Labor Cost: $199–$249
If your dishwasher won't fill with water or fills very slowly, a defective water inlet valve may be the cause.
The valve controls the flow of water into the dishwasher during operation. Filling issues may also involve the float switch assembly.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
If dishes remain wet after the cycle finishes or the dishwasher isn't drying properly, the heating element may have failed.
The heating element raises water temperature and assists with drying performance. Drying problems can also be related to a thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat issue.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
The float switch monitors water levels inside the dishwasher and helps prevent overfilling.
A malfunctioning float switch can cause filling problems or prevent the dishwasher from operating correctly.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
A dishwasher that won't start may simply have a faulty door latch or door switch.
These components ensure the door is securely closed before a wash cycle begins. If the door latch is working but the unit still will not respond, the problem may involve the user interface or electronic control board.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
The control board manages all dishwasher functions, including filling, washing, draining, and drying.
A failed board can cause cycle interruptions, error codes, or complete loss of operation.
Average Labor Cost: $179–$249
Clogged, damaged, or worn spray arms can reduce cleaning performance and leave food residue on dishes.
Replacing the spray arms helps restore proper water distribution throughout the dishwasher. Water distribution issues may also be caused by a failed diverter motor.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
The chopper blade helps break down food particles before they enter the drain system.
A damaged chopper can lead to drainage issues, poor cleaning performance, and unusual noises.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
If detergent remains inside the dispenser after a cycle, the dispenser mechanism may be faulty.
Replacing the module ensures detergent is released at the correct time during the wash cycle. A broken dispenser can also affect overall dishwasher cleaning performance.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Water leaking from the dishwasher door is often caused by a worn door gasket or damaged tub seal.
Replacing these components helps prevent leaks and protects surrounding cabinetry and flooring.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Unresponsive buttons, flashing displays, or control panel issues may indicate a faulty user interface.
Replacing the touchpad or control panel restores normal operation.
Average Labor Cost: $179–$249
These safety devices protect the dishwasher from overheating.
If either component fails, the dishwasher may stop operating or fail to complete cycles properly.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
A damaged or clogged drain hose can prevent proper drainage and cause water to remain inside the dishwasher.
Replacing the hose restores proper wastewater flow. If standing water remains after a cycle, the drain pump should also be checked.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Blocked air gaps and check valves are common causes of slow drainage and backup issues.
Cleaning these components can improve drainage performance and prevent standing water.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Broken rack wheels or adjusters can make loading and unloading dishes difficult.
Replacing damaged hardware restores smooth rack movement.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
The sump assembly collects and filters water during operation.
Leaks, drainage problems, or poor cleaning performance may indicate sump or gasket issues. Leak symptoms may also require dishwasher leak repair.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
The turbidity sensor measures water cleanliness and helps optimize wash cycles.
A faulty sensor can affect cleaning performance and cycle duration.
Average Labor Cost: $179–$249
The diverter motor controls water flow between different spray arms.
When it fails, dishes may not receive adequate water pressure during cleaning.
Average Labor Cost: $199–$249
Damaged clips or brackets can cause dish racks to become unstable or difficult to use.
Replacing these small components helps extend the life of the rack system. For rack movement issues, see rack adjuster and wheel repair cost.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
A broken soap dispenser can prevent detergent from being released properly during the wash cycle.
Replacement ensures optimal cleaning performance.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Dishwasher leaks can originate from door seals, hoses, pumps, sump assemblies, or water inlet components.
Prompt diagnosis and repair can help prevent costly water damage to floors and cabinets.
Average Labor Cost: $99–$199
Simple repairs such as replacing a door latch or clearing a drain blockage typically cost less than major component replacements like a wash motor or control board.
Premium brands often use specialized parts and advanced electronics that can increase repair complexity.
Certain replacement parts may require special ordering, affecting repair timelines and costs.
Older dishwashers can require additional diagnostic work and may use discontinued components.
Addressing small issues early often prevents larger and more expensive repairs later.
Standing water inside the tub often points to drain pump, drain hose, or check valve issues.
Dirty dishes after a cycle may indicate spray arm, circulation pump, or detergent dispenser problems.
Leaks are commonly caused by worn door gaskets, damaged hoses, or sump assembly failures.
A failed heating element or thermostat is often responsible for poor drying performance.
Door latch failures, user interface issues, and control board problems are among the most common causes.
Grinding, humming, or rattling sounds may indicate wash motor, drain pump, or chopper blade issues.
Removing food debris from the filter improves drainage and cleaning performance.
Proper loading allows spray arms to rotate freely and improves cleaning results.
Regularly check door gaskets for signs of wear or damage. Worn seals can lead to door gasket and tub seal replacement.
Using the correct detergent helps prevent buildup and improves overall performance.
Small issues such as slow draining or unusual noises can quickly develop into larger repairs if ignored.
Routine inspections help identify worn components before they fail and can extend the life of your dishwasher.
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