Zenith Dishwasher Error Code F8

The F8 code on a Zenith dishwasher indicates a diverter feedback error. This means the control board sent a command to the diverter valve to change position but did not receive the expected confirmation signal back. The dishwasher stops the cycle to prevent running without proper water distribution to the spray arms.

You should not continue running wash cycles while the F8 error is active. Without a functioning diverter, water may not reach all spray arms correctly, resulting in poor cleaning performance. In some cases the dishwasher will stop mid-cycle anyway, potentially leaving standing water in the tub.

Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. A wiring harness repair or connector replacement is the least expensive option, often falling in the range of $20 to $80 in parts if done yourself. A replacement diverter motor or sensor assembly typically costs between $40 and $150 in parts. If the main control board is the cause, parts alone can range from $100 to $250 or more, and professional labor adds additional cost on top of any parts.

Some causes of the F8 error are DIY-accessible. Start by checking for obstructions in the diverter valve and inspecting the wiring harness connectors for corrosion or loose connections. If the issue is a failed diverter motor or position sensor, replacement parts are generally available, though accessing the diverter assembly requires removing the lower spray arm and may involve pulling the dishwasher out from the cabinet depending on your model.

A reset may temporarily clear the F8 code from the display, but if the underlying fault in the diverter system has not been resolved, the error will return when the dishwasher attempts the next cycle. A reset is useful for ruling out a one-time control board glitch, but a recurring F8 code requires physical diagnosis of the diverter motor, wiring, and sensors.