On average, dishwasher repairs cost about $200, but it could cost anywhere from $70 to $600 based on the type of issue.
Dishwasher repair costs can range from as low as $70 to as high as $600, but most homeowners pay between $160 and $300.
Common repairs include replacing gaskets, cleaning drain hoses, and fixing control panels or motors.
Repairs for high-end brands may cost $750 or more due to specialized parts and technicians.
Warranty coverage can reduce repair costs if your dishwasher is less than a year old.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
On average, homeowners pay around $200 for dishwasher repairs, with most spending between $160 and $300. The total cost depends on factors like the specific repair issue, required replacement parts, and labor charges. Minor repairs can be as low as $70, while significant problems might reach $600.
The cost of repairing a dishwasher depends on the type of problem or part replacement, plumber labor rates, the brand, and other variables.
Problems with a dishwasher’s operation can be associated with several types of components. For example, a dishwasher leaving food residue behind on dishes may only need an inexpensive spray arm or filter replacement, while another may need an entirely new pump and motor. As such, various symptoms come with a wide range of repair costs.
In general, problems related to motor, heating, and electric components cost more to fix than concerns with exterior parts and basic controls.
Malfunction Type | Average Repair Cost |
---|---|
Foul odors | $50–$400 |
Broken door | $150–$600 |
Leaking door | $50–$300 |
Cracked handle | $50–$150 |
Poor cleaning | $50–$300 |
Not draining | $50–$400 |
Start failure | $100–$600 |
Fill failure | $100–$600 |
Dishwashers come in varying price tiers depending on makes and models, which often reflects in their repair costs. Budget models can cost $250 to $400, while luxury dishwashers may cost $750 or more.
High-end brands often have specialized and premium parts compared to components found in low- and mid-range brands. The price variation accounts for limited technician availability for specialty brands, part quality, warranty support, and overall branding.
For example, a control panel for a Whirlpool model might be significantly more budget-friendly than the equivalent repair for a Bosch. Even so, high-end models don’t always need branded parts. In some cases, manufacturers may produce the same part for different brands, allowing your technician to swap out for the more affordable option.
Dishwasher Brand | Average Repair Cost |
---|---|
Bosch | $50–$450 |
Frigidaire | $50–$500 |
Kenmore | $50–$550 |
KitchenAid | $50–$600 |
LG | $50–$600 |
Maytag | $50–$500 |
Whirlpool | $50–$400 |
Repairs don’t always necessitate replacing the entire component. Dishwasher components are composed of various other small parts, so fixing the larger component may only require swapping out one faulty part, reducing the overall cost.
Dishwasher Part | Total Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Drain hose | $50–$100 |
Control panel | $200–$600 |
Door gasket | $50–$100 |
Detergent dispenser | $50–$90 |
Door | $150–$250 |
Filter kit | $50–$100 |
Motor | $400–$600 |
Pump | $150–$350 |
Heating element | $150–$250 |
Water inlet valve | $80–$125 |
Racks | $75–$200 |
Spray arm | $75–$100 |
Drain hose replacements cost between $50 and $100. The drain hose transports wastewater from the appliance to the plumbing system. The hose clamp secures it to the drain pump and drain port, while the check valve prevents water from flowing back into the appliance. Common repairs address grease or mineral buildup clogs, leaks from cracked or worn hoses, or loose connections.
The control panel or board allows you to manage wash cycles, temperature, drying, and other functions, and it costs about $200 to $600 to repair or replace. When it or its components fail, the dishwasher may malfunction or become unresponsive. Cleaning the contacts, fixing faulty wiring, or clearing error messages reflect lower-end costs. Replacing the entire panel pushes costs higher.
Door gaskets are rubber or silicone seals around the dishwasher door that prevent water leaks. Gaskets gradually wear out, crack, and consequently leak. Replacing them costs between $50 and $100.
The detergent holder and dispenser release detergent according to a sensor. Broken dispensers usually need an overall replacement rather than repairing hard-to-find latches and springs. Replacing the dispenser costs $50 to $90.
Dishwasher doors may crack or fail to close properly as they wear, commonly due to damaged latches or hinges. Doors cost between $150 and $250 to replace.
Filter kits, which cost between $50 and $100 to repair or replace, catch food and other debris to prevent it from circulating during dishwasher cycles. Some filters become clogged and only require cleaning, while others may break, warp, or otherwise require replacement.
The motor drives the mechanical parts of your dishwasher, including the wash pump, drain pump, and wash arms. Replacing the motor and pump assembly costs about $400 to $600, although some repairs only require replacing worn bearings instead of the entire component.
Located at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, the heating element warms water and dries dishes at the end of the cycle. Elements range from $150 to $250 to replace or repair, with low-end costs reflecting minor fixes such as loose connections or dirty terminals.
Water inlet valves, also called water intake valves, range from $80 to $125 to replace. This part regulates water flow. Malfunction can cause leaks or prevent your dishwasher from filling.
Rack repairs and replacement are between $75 and $200. Most dishwashers have two racks, which include metal prongs for holding dishes, a track, wheels, and stoppers. While some fixes may only involve changing wheels or track guides, others may require replacing the rack.
Costing between $75 and $100 to replace or repair, spray arms rotate and distribute hot and pressurized water through nozzles to wash and rinse dishes. Minor fixes include cleaning out clogged nozzles or replacing bearings, but more significant damage usually requires replacement.
Hiring a local dishwasher repair technician typically costs between $75 and $100 per hour, while plumbers charge $50 to $300 per hour. Most pros charge a $35 to $100 service fee to diagnose the issue, which they usually apply toward the total repair cost if you proceed with the repairs.
The type of contractor and the associated rate depends on the complexity of the repair. Minor fixes may only need a professional with broad appliance repair experience, while complex problems or more obscure models may require a specialized technician. Specific plumbing or electrical problems with your unit may require a licensed professional for repair.
Your location also influences technician rates and availability. In metropolitan areas, where the cost of living is higher, technicians may charge rates at the higher end of the spectrum, and their availability might be limited due to high demand. In contrast, rural areas might have lower labor rates but may have fewer specialized technicians available, potentially leading to higher travel fees or longer wait times for service.
Warranties may reduce or eliminate repair costs, but coverage depends on the specific warranty terms for your model. Improper installation or maintenance may void your warranty. Most models come with a standard one-year warranty, but opting for a high-end brand or purchasing an extended warranty may provide more protection.
Simple repairs are a cost-effective way to keep your dishwasher running, especially compared to the $1,200 average dishwasher replacement cost. However, if your dishwasher is outside of warranty and aging, consider planning for replacement instead. When repairs for frequent or major malfunctions are near half the price of a new dishwasher, investing in a new model may offer several benefits, including:
Improved reliability
Decreased water usage
Decreased energy consumption
Modern features
Even small dishwasher repairs can add up over time. Budget for your dishwasher repair with these tips:
Get multiple quotes from local repair technicians to find the best rate.
Ask about discounts for specific services or promotions for first-time customers.
Check if your dishwasher is under warranty to cover some or all repair costs.
Perform regular maintenance, like cleaning filters and spray arms, to prevent costly repairs.
Address small issues promptly to prevent them from becoming major, expensive problems.
Consider installing a water softener if you have hard water to prevent mineral buildup that can damage your dishwasher.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Most dishwashers last between eight and 10 years, but some can serve you for 15 years or more. Factors like usage habits, water quality, and regular maintenance affect your appliance's lifespan. The make and model also play a role in how long your dishwasher will last.
Routine maintenance keeps your dishwasher running efficiently and prevents premature replacement, keeping its overall operating costs low. Regular maintenance includes emptying the filter, cleaning the spray arms, descaling with dishwasher cleaner, and wiping down the door gaskets. Check your owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations on caring for your appliance.
The time it takes to repair a dishwasher depends on the issue. Simple fixes like replacing door gaskets or unclogging spray arms can take an hour or two. More complex repairs, such as replacing the motor or control panel, may require several hours. Generally, most repairs shouldn't take more than a day if the technician has the right parts.
Repairing a dishwasher drain hose isn't advisable. Instead, replacing it is the safe solution. This process involves removing the damaged hose and installing a new one that fits properly. The entire process costs between $10 and $30, and it ensures reliable drainage and prevents potential flooding.
No, you can't repair the door hinge, but you can replace it. The process involves removing the faulty hinge, finding a replacement that fits your model, and installing it to secure the door correctly. Replacing the hinge ensures a proper seal, prevents leaks, and keeps your dishwasher running efficiently.