KDTE104DSS0 - Dispenser door appears to be opening late, soap is sitting on the bottom

[MattyMcFly]

Model Number

KDTE104DSS0

Brand

KitchenAid

Age

6-10 years

My dishwasher is about 7 years old or so. For a few months now it has been intermittently dispensing soap late I believe. The symptom is cycle runs, open door and the soap is sitting on the bottom of the washer mostly intact.

After reading a few threads here I ran a load and opened it after about 10 minutes - there was definitely water cycling through the unit and dripping down from the upper arm. So I do not think it is a water supply problem.

Previous issues seem to indicate either a new dispenser unit or control board or both is needed. Dispenser door opens with authority when you push button manually. And it is open and swings open fully after the cycle is done.

I replaced both track arms a month ago but this issue was happening occasionally prior to this and only has gotten worse in the last few days but it should be mentioned here.

My guess is I need to replace both board and dispenser. I'd much rather buy both parts than take it apart twice. Any suggestions on replacement or troubleshooting? ANything I am missing here as a possible other cause?

Thank you!

Added correct model number

 

[Jake]

KDTE104D220 is not pulling up as good, please check your model number.

Usually the problem is the wash motor intermittently working, then not working is the cause of the detergent being left on the bottom of the dishwasher tub, because even if the detergent door opens late, the rinse cycle should rinse it out fully before the dry cycle.

 

[MattyMcFly]

KDTE104D220 is not pulling up as good, please check your model number.

Usually the problem is the wash motor intermittently working, then not working is the cause of the detergent being left on the bottom of the dishwasher tub, because even if the detergent door opens late, the rinse cycle should rinse it out fully before the dry cycle.

OK this is timely as last night I started a pro wash, opened after 10 minutes or so to add soap and it was basically dry inside. So I believe you are right and my first assessment was wrong. The pump or motor is working intermittently.

Does this likely mean that the motor needs replacement or the controller , wiring etc? Thanks for your reply.

# is KDTE104DSS0

Somehow got 2s instead of Ss.

 

[Jake]

Thanks KDTE104DSS0 works!

Yes, your wash motor is the culprit.

Here's the wash motor for your model you can order:
Pump and Motor Assembly W11032770


Here's the video:

KitchenAid Dishwasher Circulation Pump Replacement #W11032770 | Repair Clinic

This video provides step-by-step repair instructions for replacing the circulation pump on KitchenAid dishwasher model #KDTE204EPA3. Learn more from the experts at Repair Clinic.

www.anrdoezrs.net

 

[MattyMcFly]

Thank you so much for the info. Good video too but it looks like a pretty involved job needing the whole unit on its back.

 

[Jake]

Yes, its quite involved, so if you decide to do it, just allow yourself some time and patience is key.