Problem: General fault indicator (seen during diagnostics)
How to Fix F-E- Error
- This code appears when the diagnostic cycle cannot determine the specific fault.
- Unplug the dishwasher for 5 minutes to reset the main computer.
- Run diagnostic cycle again: press Heated Dry, Normal, Heated Dry, Normal in sequence.
What to Check Next on This Kenmore Dishwasher
Kenmore Dishwasher Error F-E-: Use the code or symptom as the starting clue, then confirm what the dishwasher actually does before ordering parts.
- Turn power off before opening panels, reaching into the sump, or checking the valve, pump, heater, latch, sensor, or control wiring.
- Clean the filter and sump, check spray-arm movement, verify water supply, and inspect the drain hose and sink connection first.
- Confirm whether the fault appears during fill, wash, drain, heat/dry, latch, leak detection, or control-panel response.
- Run a short test cycle after cleaning and watch the exact stage where the symptom returns.
- Replace a part only after the same fault repeats and the complete Kenmore dishwasher model number confirms the right component.
If the issue returns after these checks, match replacement parts to the complete Kenmore dishwasher model number from the appliance tag. Kenmore models can be built by different manufacturers, so fit depends on the full model number.
Recommended Parts to Check
No exact official OEM part number is listed here because the correct Kenmore dishwasher part can vary by complete model number. These are targeted part-category searches, not universal fit claims.
-
Kenmore dishwasher drain pump
Common replacement category: Drain pump
Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.
Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for drain and standing-water symptoms after filter, sump, and hose checks.
-
Kenmore dishwasher water inlet valve
Common replacement category: Water inlet valve
Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.
Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for fill faults after supply, float, and inlet screen checks.
-
Kenmore dishwasher circulation pump
Common replacement category: Circulation pump / wash motor
Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.
Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for weak wash or spray-arm symptoms after filter and spray-arm checks.
Before ordering: match the part to the complete Kenmore 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
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Recommended Parts to Check
No exact official OEM part number is listed here because the correct Kenmore dishwasher part can vary by complete model number. These are targeted part-category searches, not universal fit claims.
-
Kenmore dishwasher drain pumpCommon replacement category: Drain pumpFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for drain and standing-water symptoms after filter, sump, and hose checks. -
Kenmore dishwasher water inlet valveCommon replacement category: Water inlet valveFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for fill faults after supply, float, and inlet screen checks. -
Kenmore dishwasher circulation pumpCommon replacement category: Circulation pump / wash motorFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by complete Kenmore dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for weak wash or spray-arm symptoms after filter and spray-arm checks.
Before ordering: match the part to the complete Kenmore 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
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.
Browse all Kenmore error codes: Kenmore Error Codes










