Miele Dishwasher: grinding noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a grinding noise from your Miele dishwasher? This sound often indicates mechanical interference caused by foreign objects, debris, or worn components. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure efficient operation.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Miele Models

  • Miele official guidance describes cleaning the drain pump and non‑return valve for grinding noises; if unresolved, contact Miele Service.
  • Miele dishwashers are designed for quiet operation; unusual grinding often indicates blocked pump or foreign object.

Possible Causes

Foreign object lodged in drain pump or non‑return valve

How to Identify: Grinding occurs shortly after start or during drain; debris visible in pump area when filter removed

Part: Drain pump / non‑return valve

Debris in filter/sump area

How to Identify: Noise during wash cycle plus reduced water circulation; visible debris in filter or sump

Part: Filter/sump area

Worn or damaged circulation pump bearings

How to Identify: Grinding throughout the cycle that worsens over time, possible reduced spray coverage

Part: Circulation pump

Damaged impeller

How to Identify: Grinding or scraping noise in wash/drain; manual inspection shows chipped/bent impeller fins

Part: Pump impeller

Loose or misaligned spray arms rubbing against rack

How to Identify: Grinding or scraping noise during wash with audible rubbing; spray arms don’t spin freely by hand

Part: Spray arms

DIY Solutions

Clear drain pump and non‑return valve of debris

Moderate 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, container/towel, gloves
  1. Turn off power and disconnect the dishwasher.
  2. Remove lower rack and filter assembly.
  3. Scoop out standing water if present.
  4. Push in non‑return valve catch and lift out valve; rinse it.
  5. Inspect the drain pump area and remove any foreign objects (glass, pits).
  6. Reinstall non‑return valve and filter, ensuring correct fit.
  7. Run a short cycle to confirm noise is gone.
⚠️ Safety First: Wear gloves to protect against sharp debris.

Clean filter/sump area

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: gloves, soft brush, warm water
  1. Turn off power to dishwasher.
  2. Remove bottom rack and remove filter unit.
  3. Rinse and brush filter and sump area to remove food debris.
  4. Reinstall parts and run a test cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dishwasher is off before cleaning.

Check and reposition spray arms

Easy 10–15 minutes
  1. Remove bottom and top racks.
  2. Manually rotate spray arms to check for free movement.
  3. Clear any debris from spray arm holes.
  4. Reinstall racks ensuring dishes aren’t blocking arms.
⚠️ Safety First: Be careful not to break spray arm tabs when removing.

Professional Repairs

Replace circulation or drain pump due to worn bearings or damage

Estimated Cost: $150–$350

Replace damaged impeller or motor components

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

When to Call a Professional

Grinding continues after DIY debris removal and cleaning
Noise occurs even with empty dishwasher and clean filter
Signs of motor failure such as smoke or vibration increases

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filter and sump regularly: Debris buildup causing grinding and poor wash performance
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check spray arms for obstructions: Spray arm interference noises and ensures proper water distribution
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Miele Dishwasher grinding noise?
Common causes include foreign objects in the drain pump, debris in the filter, or worn circulation pump bearings.
How do I fix Miele Dishwasher grinding noise myself?
You can clear the drain pump, clean the filter, and check spray arms for debris.
How much does it cost to fix grinding noise?
Professional repairs range from $100 to $350 depending on the component that needs replacing.
When should I call a technician for grinding noise?
If DIY fixes don’t resolve the issue or if the noise persists, it’s best to call a professional.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Debris in the drain pump impeller
  • Worn or damaged motor bearings
  • Faulty wash arm assembly

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and clear debris from the drain pump impeller. Remove the lower spray arm and access the impeller area. Clean out any food particles or objects that may be causing the noise.

  2. Check the motor bearings for wear. If they are worn or damaged, replace them. This may require disassembling the motor assembly.

  3. Inspect the wash arm assembly for any cracks or blockages. Replace the wash arm if it is damaged or not functioning properly.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Need help to diagnose loud grinding sound - Miele Dishwasher...

Community Discussions

loud grinding/vibrating sound

Cleared debris from the drain pump impeller area, which resolved the grinding noise.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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