How to Fix Amana Dishwasher Error F42

Amana Dishwasher Error F42 overlay image

⚠️ Safety Warning: Appliance repair involves electricity, gas, and moving parts. Always disconnect power before working on any appliance.

Error Code: F42 Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: Detergent Dispenser Lid Issue. There’s a problem with the detergent dispenser lid mechanism.

⚖️ Repair Decision
✅ WORTH FIXING

Parts under $100

How to Fix F42 Error (Step-by-Step)

  1. Unplug the dishwasher or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
  2. Open the dishwasher door and locate the detergent dispenser (WPW10428214, W11032769, W10861000).
  3. The dispenser is mounted on the inner door panel. You will need to remove the inner door panel by taking out the screws that hold it in place.
  4. With the panel off, you can access the back of the dispenser. Disconnect the wiring harness that controls the dispenser lid.
  5. The dispenser is held in place by several clips or screws. Release these to remove the old dispenser assembly.
  6. Install the new dispenser, making sure it is securely fastened, and reconnect the wiring harness.
  7. Reattach the inner door panel and restore power to the dishwasher.
  8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

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.

  1. Disconnect power before opening panels, then confirm the door latch, float, inlet valve, drain path, and harness connections are seated.
  2. Match the timing of the failure to the likely path: fill, wash circulation, drain, heat, leak detection, or control communication.
  3. Clear debris from filters, sump areas, spray arms, and the drain loop before treating the fault as a failed board.
  4. 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 Replacement Part

OEM Part #: W10861000

Estimated Market Price: $65-$125

Check Price & Availability →

Verified Compatible Alternatives:

  • W11032769
  • WPW10428214

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

Built-In Dishwashers

Standard 24-Inch Models

  • Common under-counter replacement size
  • Check height, width, and toe-kick clearance
  • Match hardwire or cord connection requirements

Shop Built-In Dishwashers

Compact Options

18-Inch and Small-Space Models

  • Useful for narrow cabinets
  • Confirm ADA or compact dimensions
  • Verify panel and handle clearance

Compare Compact Dishwashers

Portable and Countertop

No Built-In Cabinet Cutout

  • Good for rentals or limited cabinets
  • Confirm faucet adapter compatibility
  • Measure counter or storage space

View Portable Dishwashers

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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.

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Most DIY parts are $50–$250. If you have a quote, use the total.
More options (for a better recommendation)

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Expert: Mike Sullivan

EPA Section 608 Certified Technician with 18+ years experience.

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Browse all Amana error codes: Amana Error Codes

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