Frigidaire Dishwasher: motor failure

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a Frigidaire dishwasher motor failure? If your dishwasher isn't running, circulating water, or showing unusual noises like grinding or buzzing, it could indicate a serious issue. This problem often leads to inadequate cleaning, draining issues, or the appliance stopping mid-cycle. Understanding the common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Frigidaire Models

  • Motor assembly part (e.g., Frigidaire 155484401) often identified as replacement for models with motor failure symptoms

Possible Causes

Failed or burned‑out motor assembly

How to Identify: Dishwasher won’t circulate water or spray, no sound from motor, grinding/buzzing unusual motor noises, water may remain at bottom; continuity test on motor windings shows open circuit.

Part: Dishwasher motor assembly / circulation pump motor

Faulty motor start/run capacitor

How to Identify: Dishwasher makes humming noise but motor does not start; testing capacitor shows out‑of‑spec capacitance.

Part: Motor start/run capacitor

DIY Solutions

Motor assembly replacement

Advanced 1–2 hours
Tools Needed: Screwdriver set, Nut driver, Multimeter
  1. Turn off and unplug dishwasher
  2. Access motor assembly under dishwasher tub
  3. Disconnect electrical connectors and mounting hardware
  4. Install replacement motor assembly (match part number) and reassemble
  5. Restore power and test operation
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before service

Test and replace motor start/run capacitor

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter with capacitance test, Screwdrivers
  1. Disconnect dishwasher from power
  2. Locate capacitor near motor assembly
  3. Test capacitor capacitance against specifications
  4. Replace capacitor if outside spec
  5. Reconnect and test dishwasher
⚠️ Safety First: Wear safety gloves

Professional Repairs

Professional motor diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500

Control board or thermal fuse replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Motor replacement identified as needed
You cannot isolate cause with basic tests
You lack tools to safely measure electrical components

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filters and sump area: Debris buildup that can stress motor
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect and clean pump impeller area: Blockages that could cause motor overload
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire Dishwasher motor failure?
Common causes include a failed motor assembly or a faulty motor start/run capacitor.
How do I fix Frigidaire Dishwasher motor failure myself?
You can replace the motor assembly or test and replace the motor start/run capacitor.
How much does it cost to fix motor failure?
Professional repairs can range from $200 to $500 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for motor failure?
If you're facing complex issues or the DIY solutions seem overwhelming, it's best to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty motor due to wear and tear
  • Electrical issues such as a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
  • Clogged impeller or drain, causing the motor to overheat

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the motor for visible damage or wear. If damaged, replace with an OEM motor. Ensure the dishwasher is unplugged before starting. Remove the lower spray arm, cover, and disconnect the motor wiring. Install the new motor and reassemble the parts.

  2. Check the electrical connections to the motor. If there are any frayed wires or loose connections, repair or replace them. Test the circuit breaker and replace any blown fuses.

  3. Clear any clogs in the impeller or drain. Remove the lower spray arm and check for debris. Clean out any blockages and reassemble the dishwasher.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Frigidaire Dishwasher…

Community Discussions

motor has gone bad

Recommended to order OEM parts from reputable online companies.

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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