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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code 9-2

Diverter stuck on

Kenmore codesKenmore dishwasher codes

Diverter stuck on — faulty diverter drive circuit on the control.

First step from the service manual

Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power and replace control. Inspect diverter motor and connections for overheating/shorting.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What 9-2 means on a Kenmore dishwasher

Error code 9-2 on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates the control board has detected a fault in the diverter drive circuit. Specifically, the control is not receiving the expected feedback that the diverter motor is moving or positioning correctly, which the board interprets as the diverter being stuck. This points either to a failed diverter motor, a short or overheating condition in the wiring between the motor and control, or a failed diverter drive circuit on the control board itself. The first diagnostic priority is to inspect the diverter motor and its wiring harness for visible burn marks, melted connectors, or shorted wires before assuming the control board is the root cause.

For homeowners: the diverter is a motorized component that directs water flow between the upper and lower spray arms during the wash cycle. When it gets stuck or its drive circuit fails, the dishwasher cannot properly distribute water, so the control shuts things down and displays 9-2 to alert you. This is not a self-clearing error and will require physical inspection or part replacement to resolve.

Because a shorted diverter motor can damage a new control board if installed without addressing the motor first, always inspect the motor and connections before replacing the control.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 9-2

  1. 01

    Failed diverter drive circuit on the control board

    Part replacement

    The circuit on the control board responsible for sending power and signals to the diverter motor can burn out or short internally, causing the board to flag a stuck diverter even if the motor itself is functional. This is the most direct cause identified by the 9-2 code definition.

  2. 02

    Shorted or overheated diverter motor

    Part replacement

    The diverter motor can overheat or develop an internal short, which pulls excessive current through the drive circuit and triggers the 9-2 fault. Visible burn marks on the motor housing or connector are a strong indicator of this cause.

  3. 03

    Damaged or corroded wiring harness at the diverter motor

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring connections between the diverter motor and the control board can corrode, melt, or short against the chassis, disrupting the signal the control uses to monitor diverter position. Inspecting the connector pins and wire insulation along the harness can confirm this cause.

  4. 04

    Mechanically jammed diverter valve

    Wiring / connection

    Debris or mineral buildup can physically prevent the diverter from rotating, causing the motor to stall and overheat, which then overloads the drive circuit on the control. Checking the diverter assembly for obstructions is a low-cost first step before replacing electrical components.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 9-2

What does error code 9-2 mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Code 9-2 means the control board has detected a fault in the diverter drive circuit, typically indicating the diverter motor is stuck or the circuit controlling it has failed. The diverter is responsible for routing water to the upper and lower spray arms. The control board shuts down the cycle and displays 9-2 when it cannot confirm the diverter is moving as expected.
How do I fix error code 9-2 on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by unplugging the dishwasher, then inspect the diverter motor and its wiring harness for signs of overheating, melted plastic, burned connectors, or corrosion. If the motor and wiring look undamaged, check whether the diverter valve is physically jammed by debris. If no mechanical obstruction is found and the wiring checks out, the control board will need to be replaced. Replacing a shorted motor before installing a new control board is strongly recommended to avoid damaging the replacement.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore dishwasher when it shows a 9-2 error code?
No. The 9-2 code means the dishwasher has already halted the cycle because the diverter drive circuit is not functioning correctly. Running the dishwasher in this condition will not clean dishes effectively since water cannot be directed properly between the spray arms. More importantly, a shorted diverter motor presents a risk of further electrical damage to the control board if the unit is operated before the fault is resolved.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dishwasher with a 9-2 error code?
Cost depends on which component has failed. A replacement diverter motor typically runs between $30 and $80 for the part. A replacement control board for a Kenmore dishwasher generally costs between $100 and $250 for the part. If you hire a technician, expect to add $100 to $200 in labor. Inspecting the wiring harness and diverter for a mechanical jam first costs nothing and can save you from purchasing unnecessary parts.
Can a faulty diverter motor cause the 9-2 code and damage the control board on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Yes. A diverter motor that is shorted internally draws excessive current through the diverter drive circuit on the control board, which can burn out that circuit. This is why the repair procedure calls for inspecting the diverter motor and its connections before replacing the control board. Installing a new control board without addressing a shorted motor can result in the replacement board failing in the same way.

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