The door of a dishwasher opens and closes with the aid of springs. If the springs (or the cables that connect them on some dishwashers) break, the door will drop open hard and be heavier when closing. This can also lead to bending the door hinges out of shape, resulting in a door that does not close properly and possibly leaks.
Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Important Safety Notice: Before repairing the door springs, unplug the dishwasher or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
- Replacement springs or cables
- Needle-nose pliers (optional)
- Safety gloves
Steps to Repair the Door Springs
Step 1: Safety First
- Turn Off Power: Ensure that the dishwasher is unplugged or the circuit breaker is turned off to prevent any electrical shock.
- Turn Off Water Supply: If necessary, turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
Step 2: Access the Door Springs
- Remove the Lower Panel: The door springs and cables are located behind the lower panel beneath the dishwasher door. This panel is usually held in place with two screws either above or below the panel.
- Open the Door: Open the dishwasher door to access the screws holding the lower panel.
- Remove the Screws: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws. You may need to close the door to fully remove the panel.
Step 3: Identify the Spring Type
There are two common types of spring assemblies:
- Hook to Tang Assembly: The springs connect from a hook on the dishwasher cabinet to a tang on the door hinge.
- Cable Assembly: The springs connect via cables that attach to the door hinge.
Step 4: Remove the Broken Springs or Cables
- Inspect the Springs and Cables: Identify the broken or worn springs and cables.
- Remove the Springs: Use needle-nose pliers if necessary to disconnect the springs from the hooks or tangs. If your dishwasher uses cables, disconnect the cables from the springs and door hinge.
Step 5: Install the New Springs or Cables
- Attach the New Springs: Hook the new springs to the appropriate hooks on the dishwasher cabinet and the tangs on the door hinge.
- Attach the Cables (if applicable): If your dishwasher uses cables, connect the new cables to the springs and the door hinge. Make sure they are securely attached.
Step 6: Test the Door Operation
- Check Door Balance: Open and close the dishwasher door several times to ensure it operates smoothly and does not drop open or close too heavily.
- Adjust Tension (if necessary): Some springs have adjustable tension settings. Adjust the tension if the door does not balance properly.
Step 7: Reassemble the Dishwasher
- Reattach the Lower Panel: Once the new springs or cables are installed and the door operates correctly, reattach the lower panel by securing it with the screws.
- Close the Door: Ensure everything is properly aligned and close the dishwasher door.
Step 8: Test the Dishwasher
- Restore Power and Water Supply: Turn the power and water supply back on.
- Run a Test Cycle: Run a short test cycle to ensure the dishwasher operates correctly and there are no leaks.
Tips and Warnings
- Replace Both Sides: Always replace both springs or cables at the same time to ensure balanced operation.
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to your dishwasher’s user manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Use Genuine Parts: Use genuine replacement parts for optimal performance and longevity.
- Check for Other Issues: Inspect the door hinges for any damage or bending that may have occurred due to the broken springs. Replace the hinges if necessary.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any step or if the problem persists, consider seeking help from a professional technician.
By following these steps, you can effectively repair the door springs in your dishwasher and ensure it operates smoothly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help keep your dishwasher running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
