F1E1
KitchenAid Main Control Board Failure

Dishwasher will not start; control panel lights may be frozen or unresponsive; sometimes beeps and then shuts off.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Failed electronic control board, corrupted control software, shorted keypad sending invalid signals, power surge damage to control

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety First: Unplug the dishwasher or switch off the circuit breaker before removing any panels.

Step-by-step checks:

  • Power reset: Turn the breaker off for 5 minutes, then back on. Try to start a normal cycle. If the code returns immediately, continue.
  • Check keypad response: Press several different buttons. If some work and others do not, the user interface (UI) panel may be shorted and confusing the control.
  • Inspect wiring to control: Remove the inner door panel to access the main control board. Look for burnt spots, melted connectors, or loose harness plugs. Reseat all connectors firmly.
  • Check for moisture: If there is condensation or signs of water intrusion near the control, dry the area thoroughly and correct any door gasket or vent leaks before replacing parts.
  • If visible damage or repeated F1E1 persists: Replace the main control board (and UI panel if there are signs of keypad failure). Transfer wires one at a time from old board to new to avoid miswiring.

When to call a pro: If you are not comfortable working with live wiring or the control board, contact a qualified appliance technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Main Control Board
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