Kitchenaid Dishwasher: not completing cycles, making clicking sound

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your KitchenAid Dishwasher starting a cycle but failing to complete it while making a clicking sound? This common issue may stem from a faulty door latch, control board malfunction, water inlet valve problems, or clogged filters. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective troubleshooting.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kitchenaid Models

KitchenAid official guidance highlights that resets (cycle power) can resolve transient control errors that lead to cycle interruptions.

Possible Causes

Faulty door latch or door switch

How to Identify: Dishwasher may stop midâ€‘cycle when the door isnâ€™t sensed as closed; clicking can be heard as the unit repeatedly tries to engage.

Part: Door latch / door switch assembly

Control board or control panel malfunction

How to Identify: Cycles stop at inconsistent points, control unresponsive, or display anomalies. Clicking may accompany control errors as relays attempt to trigger.

Part: Control panel / electronic control board

Water inlet valve issue

How to Identify: Dishwasher may stop when refilling segments should start; slight clicking may occur when valve struggles to operate.

Part: Water inlet valve

Clogged filter / drainage causing midâ€‘cycle halt

How to Identify: Dishwasher halts after wash phase with water remaining; clicking can be incidental as unit shuts off due to sensor/drainage issues.

Part: Filter / drain system

DIY Solutions

Reset the dishwasher controls

Easy 5â€“10 minutes

Tools Needed: None

Press 'Cancel/Drain' or use instructions from your modelâ€™s panel to cancel any active cycle.
Disconnect power by unplugging or switching off the dedicated breaker.
Wait at least one minute to reset the control board.
Restore power and start a new wash cycle.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before touching electrical components.

Clean door latch and ensure it fully closes

Easy 10â€“15 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver (possibly)

Open the dishwasher and inspect the door latch area for debris or obstructions.
Clean with a damp cloth.
Close the door firmly to ensure the latch engages securely.
Run a short cycle to test whether the issue recurs.

⚠️ Safety First: Do not force the door; ensure proper alignment.

Clean filter and check drain path

Moderate 15â€“30 minutes

Tools Needed: Soft brush, Bucket or towel

Remove the bottom rack to access the filter assembly.
Remove and rinse the filter under running water.
Use a soft brush to clear stubborn debris.
Check the drain hose for kinks or visible clogs.

⚠️ Safety First: Turn off power before accessing internal parts.

Professional Repairs

Replace door latch or door switch

Estimated Cost: $40 - $120

Control board / control panel replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Water inlet valve replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Dishwasher continues stopping midâ€‘cycle after resets and DIY checks

Visible electrical issues such as control panel dead or erratic

Door latch replacement requires internal access or wiring diagnostics

Preventive Maintenance

Clean filter and drains: Drain clogs that can stop cycles midâ€‘operation
Frequency: monthly
Check door latch alignment: Latching issues that abort cycles
Frequency: every 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my KitchenAid Dishwasher not completing cycles, making clicking sound?

Common causes include a faulty door latch, control board issues, water inlet valve problems, or clogged filters.

How do I fix KitchenAid Dishwasher not completing cycles, making clicking sound myself?

You can reset the controls, clean the door latch, or check the filter and drain path for obstructions.

How much does it cost to fix not completing cycles, making clicking sound?

Professional repair costs range from $40 to $400, depending on whether you need to replace the latch, control board, or water valve.

When should I call a technician for not completing cycles, making clicking sound?

If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if you suspect a control board malfunction, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Resetting the Dishwasher's Controls (Cycle Power) - KitchenAid Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty door latch or door switch preventing the cycle from completing
Clogged or malfunctioning drain pump causing water to not drain properly
Faulty control board or timer causing erratic operation and clicking sounds

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect and replace the door latch or door switch: Open the dishwasher door and check the latch for any visible damage. Use a multimeter to test the door switch for continuity. If faulty, replace it with a new one.
Clean or replace the drain pump: Remove the lower spray arm and filter to access the drain pump. Check for clogs or debris. Clean it thoroughly or replace it if damaged.
Test and replace the control board or timer: Access the control board by removing the dishwasher's front panel. Inspect for burnt components or loose connections. Replace if necessary.