Error Code: 1-2 Difficulty: Hard
Problem: Control software issue – damaged or corrupted memory on control board or incompatible software.
How to Fix 1-2 Error (Step-by-Step)
- Disconnect the dishwasher from power by unplugging it from the wall outlet or shutting off the corresponding circuit breaker in your home’s electrical panel.
- Open the dishwasher door and remove the screws holding the inner door panel to the outer panel. These are typically located around the perimeter of the inner door.
- Carefully separate the inner and outer door panels to expose the internal components. The main control board is usually a green circuit board housed in a plastic case, often located at the top or side of the door assembly.
- Take a clear photo of the wiring connections on the old control board to use as a reference. This will ensure you reconnect everything correctly on the new board.
- Gently disconnect all wire harnesses attached to the old control board. Most connectors have a small locking tab that needs to be pressed to release the plug.
- Remove the screws or release the clips holding the old control board in its housing and carefully take it out.
- Install the new control board, secure it in place, and reconnect all the wire harnesses by referring to the photo you took earlier. Ensure each connector is firmly seated.
- Reassemble the dishwasher door panels, restore power to the appliance, and run a test cycle to confirm the repair.
What to Check Next on This Amana Dishwasher
Focused repair path: dishwasher fill, drain, wash motor, heating, leak, sensor, and control checks. Do not treat a returning fault as a reset-only problem; use the point in the cycle where the fault appears to choose the next check.
- Disconnect power before opening panels, then confirm the door latch, float, inlet valve, drain path, and harness connections are seated.
- Match the timing of the failure to the likely path: fill, wash circulation, drain, heat, leak detection, or control communication.
- Clear debris from filters, sump areas, spray arms, and the drain loop before treating the fault as a failed board.
- If a part is suspected, verify voltage or continuity where appropriate and match the complete Amana dishwasher model number before ordering.
Check, inspect, clean, test, measure, remove, reconnect, clear, and replace parts only when the symptom supports that path. If these checks point toward a part, verify the complete Amana model number from the appliance tag before ordering. Similar error wording can use different valves, sensors, pumps, motors, heaters, locks, switches, fans, or control boards depending on the exact model.
Recommended Parts to Check
No exact official OEM part number is listed here because the correct Amana dishwasher part can vary by complete model number. These are targeted part-category searches, not universal fit claims.
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Whirlpool dishwasher drain pumpCommon replacement category: Drain pumpFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Amana dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Why this category can matter: standing-water, drain, and no-complete-cycle symptoms after the filter and hose are checked.
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Whirlpool dishwasher water inlet valveCommon replacement category: Water inlet valveFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Amana dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Why this category can matter: fill, low-water, or no-water symptoms after supply and float checks.
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Whirlpool dishwasher control boardCommon replacement category: Electronic control boardFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Amana dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Why this category can matter: repeating error-code or control faults after wiring and latch checks.
Before ordering: match the part to the complete Amana dishwasher model number on the appliance tag.
When It’s Better to Replace Than Repair
Dishwasher repairs can add up quickly when the pump, control, heater, or leak-related parts fail.
Confirm cabinet width, water line, drain routing, electrical connection, and panel style before ordering.
For repair parts, verify exact fit with the full dishwasher model number before buying; these links are general replacement-appliance shopping options.
- [OK]Drain pump or circulation pump failure
- [OK]Leaking tub, door, or float-switch issues
- [OK]Heater or control failures on an older unit
- [OK]Repeated poor washing or drying performance
Recommended Dishwasher Replacement Options
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Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.
More options (for a better recommendation)
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Expert: Mike Sullivan
EPA Section 608 Certified Technician with 18+ years experience.
Read Editorial Standards →Browse all Amana error codes: Amana Error Codes
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