Kenmore Dishwasher: unknown part found

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If you've found an unknown loose part inside your Kenmore dishwasher, you're not alone. This common issue can stem from a detached internal component or a loose filter piece. Identifying the part's function is crucial for ensuring your dishwasher operates safely and efficiently. Don't panic—there are steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore dishwasher parts diagrams and OEM parts lists are available online so users can match found pieces with correct components.

Possible Causes

Detached internal component piece

How to Identify: Compare the found piece to parts diagrams or inspect inside dishwasher areas (filter base, spray arms, rack rollers to see if a component is missing or loose.

Part: Unknown (potentially filter assembly, spray arm, rack wheel, clip or fastener)

Loose filter or filter retainer part

How to Identify: If the part resembles a small plastic piece that fits at the bottom filter area, it may be part of the filter seal or retainer.

Part: Filter assembly or retainer

DIY Solutions

Compare the found part to a parts diagram

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: smartphone or camera, access to model parts diagram online
  1. Locate your dishwasher's exact model number (on the edge of the door or frame).
  2. Search online for a Kenmore dishwasher parts diagram specific to that model.
  3. Compare the unknown part to the diagram to identify its function and location.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure the dishwasher is powered off and water supply is shut off before inspecting internal parts.

Inspect common loose-part areas

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight
  1. Open the dishwasher and remove lower and upper dish racks.
  2. Check the filter area, spray arms, and rack wheels for missing pieces or loose fittings.
  3. Try to match the found part with any visibly missing piece in those areas.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not operate the dishwasher if internal parts are missing as this can cause damage.

Professional Repairs

Technician inspection and repair

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

If the dishwasher shows operational issues (leaking, poor cleaning, unusual noises) after reinserting the part or if the part cannot be reliably identified.
If the part is internal and removal or replacement affects the dishwasher’s spray system, pump, or water distribution.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect and clean dishwasher components (filter, spray arms, racks): Loose or detached parts due to debris buildup or wear
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dishwasher unknown part found?
This could be due to a detached internal component or a loose filter part.
How do I fix Kenmore Dishwasher unknown part found myself?
Locate your model number, find a parts diagram, and compare it to the unknown part.
How much does it cost to fix unknown part found?
Professional repair costs range from $50 to $150 for inspection and repair.
When should I call a technician for unknown part found?
Consider calling a technician if the issue persists or if you're unsure about repairs.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

80%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Upper tray roller has detached from the upper rack
  • A broken or worn part that has fallen off during operation
  • Improper installation of the upper rack causing parts to dislodge

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the upper rack for any missing rollers and reattach or replace them as necessary. Ensure the rack is properly seated in the dishwasher. Test the functionality by running a short cycle.

  2. Check for any broken parts in the upper rack assembly. If any parts are damaged, order replacements and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.

  3. If the upper rack is improperly installed, remove it and reinstall according to the user manual, ensuring all parts are secure and correctly positioned.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Unknown Part Found in Kenmore Dishwasher

Community Discussions

unknown part found in dishwasher

The part is likely an upper tray roller.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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