mypros+
Error code reference

KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code 10-1

Dispenser electrical problem

KitchenAid codesKitchenAid dishwasher codes
Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the 10-1 error code actually means

Your KitchenAid dishwasher has detected an electrical problem with the soap dispenser, specifically the small mechanism that automatically opens the dispenser door during the wash cycle to release detergent. The control board is reading abnormal electrical signals from that component, which could mean a wiring issue or a failed part inside the dispenser itself. Until this is resolved, your dishes may not be getting properly cleaned because detergent may not be releasing at the right time.

Diagnostic procedure

The full 10-1 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power and check resistances of dispenser solenoid and all connections in the dispenser circuit. Fix/replace open connection/part.
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
Unlock with pass
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock 10-1 procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of 10-1

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Loose or corroded connector in the dispenser circuit
  2. 2Open (failed) dispenser solenoid
  3. 3Damaged or broken dispenser wiring harness
  4. 4Faulty detergent dispenser assembly

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about 10-1

What does error code 10-1 mean on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
Code 10-1 means the control board has detected an electrical problem in the detergent dispenser circuit. This is typically caused by a loose wire connection somewhere in the dispenser circuit or a failed dispenser solenoid with an open coil. The solenoid is the component responsible for opening the detergent door during the wash cycle.
Can I still run my KitchenAid dishwasher with a 10-1 error code active?
The dishwasher may still run cycles with code 10-1 active, but the detergent dispenser will likely not open at the correct time, meaning dishes will wash without soap and results will be poor. Running the machine this way does not cause further mechanical damage, but the underlying electrical fault should be addressed before relying on the dishwasher for normal use.
How do I test the dispenser solenoid on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
Disconnect power to the dishwasher first. Locate the dispenser assembly on the inside of the door and disconnect the wiring connector going to the solenoid. Set a multimeter to the ohms setting and probe the two solenoid terminals. A functioning solenoid will show a finite resistance reading, typically in the range of a few hundred ohms, though the exact value depends on your model. An open reading (OL or infinite) confirms the solenoid coil has failed and the part needs replacement.
How do I fix error code 10-1 on a KitchenAid dishwasher?
Start by unplugging the dishwasher or shutting off power at the breaker. Access the dispenser assembly and use a multimeter to test the solenoid resistance and check all connectors in the dispenser circuit for continuity. If a connector is loose or corroded, reseat or clean it. If the solenoid reads open (infinite resistance), replace the solenoid or the full dispenser assembly. Reassemble, restore power, and run a test cycle to confirm the code clears.
How much does it cost to fix a KitchenAid dishwasher 10-1 error code?
If the fix is simply reseating a loose connector, the repair costs nothing beyond your time. A replacement dispenser solenoid or dispenser assembly typically costs between $20 and $80 for the part depending on your model. If you hire a technician, expect a service call fee plus labor, which commonly brings the total to $100 to $200. This is generally a manageable DIY repair if you are comfortable using a multimeter and accessing the dishwasher door panel.

Related KitchenAid dishwasher error codes

All KitchenAid dishwasher codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass