SymptomBlank screen
Likely causeNo power
Safe checkLook at the outlet carefully
Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Won’t Start? A Safe Checklist
A dishwasher that will not begin often has a simple setting, latch, or supply explanation.
Troubleshooting
Dishwasher Won’t Start? overview
A dishwasher that will not start is usually waiting on a condition: the control lock is on, a delayed start is active, the door is not fully latched, or the water supply is off. Check those four conditions first, and book service if nothing changes.
A dishwasher that sits silent after you press Start throws off the evening, yet the symptom alone does not point to a broken part. Start with safe, repeatable observations and keep them for a possible Maytag service visit.
Start with the simple conditions
Verify that the dishwasher has power, that the door is latched all the way, and that neither delay start nor control lock is on, then choose the program again. Leave the unit in place and do not pry at panels, fittings, or controls. If something shifts after a simple adjustment, run one regular cycle before concluding anything. A dark display means checking the plug and breaker before blaming the controls.
SymptomBeeps on Start
Likely causeLatch not engaged
Safe checkPush door shut
SymptomBegins late
Likely causeDelay start on
Safe checkReview the settings
A dishwasher can seem dead when it is actually waiting on a delayed start, a door-latch signal, or water to be available. Watch the pattern: every attempt, one program, or only after it has been on a while. That clue is worth more than pressing Start repeatedly. Maytag notes that a cycle will not begin when no water is detected.
Which conditions should you check first on a dishwasher that will not start?
Maytag's not-starting checklist begins with power at the plug or breaker, a door that is fully latched, water supply turned on, control lock, and delay start. A lit lock icon means the control lock is on, so all buttons are disabled, and pressing a button flashes the light three times.
A lower rack installed backward can keep the door from latching. If a delay start was set, the dishwasher will not run until the delay passes, and pressing CANCEL/DRAIN cancels it.
Safe checks that protect the appliance
Since controls, filter access, and upkeep intervals vary by model, rely on the manual for yours. Touch only parts it describes as owner-serviceable, use the recommended cleaning products, and put removable parts back the way they were built to fit.
- Save any displayed message or code in your notes before clearing it.
- Look at the hoses, vents, seals, and plugs you can see, without moving electrical connections.
- Keep to one controlled test, not several quick tries.
- Confirm the lower rack is seated properly, as a backward rack can prevent the door from latching.
- Pay attention the instant you press Start: a click, a hum, or total silence gives a technician a different lead each time.
Fine for owners
- Review the controls
- Confirm the door latches
- Make sure the valve is open
Technician-only
- Defeat the latch
- Pry into the control panel
- Press hard on buttons or hinges
Before pressing Start again, clear obstructions, lighten an unusually heavy load, and confirm that water supply and door clearance are unrestricted. Do not reset over and over; that can hide an on-and-off fault and may leave water or heat in a spot it should not be.
Similar articles
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- Washer Stopping Mid-Cycle: What to CheckA Maytag washer that pauses mid-cycle can relate to imbalance, drainage, or an error code. Start safely.
- Ice Maker Not Working: Safe Steps FirstWater supply, settings, and time after a reset explain many ice-maker complaints.
Frequently asked questions
Confirm power, a fully latched door, and whether delay start or control lock is active before selecting the program again.
Only if there is no burning smell, smoke, sparking, gas odor, water near electricity, or other safety warning. Otherwise stop and arrange service.
Book a diagnosis when the safe checks above do not resolve a dishwasher that will not start, or when the next step would require opening the appliance or testing internal parts.
Tell us what’s wrong — we’ll take it from there
Share a few details and we’ll confirm an appointment. Prefer to talk? Call us and we’ll help right away.
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Phone
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Hours
Mon–Sat: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Service area
Serving Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas.
Response time
Appointment timing depends on ZIP, route capacity, appliance type, access and parts.