On the display panel, most of the buttons still light up (heated dry, delay time, etc), but the ON button area in the center of the panel does not light up and therefore the dishwasher won’t start/run. Interestingly, about a week ago, I sort of pushed the panel upward while I pressed to START button and the dishwasher started working. Strange…do I need a new control panel or something else???
Carefully disassemble the control panel and verify proper connection of the ribbon cables connected the key panel and the control board. Give it a try.
Gene.
Wow! Thanks, Gene. You are correct. When I removed the door panel screws and manually pressed the ribbon bar connector in against the pins, the START button works. I sort of have to push it in and upward to get it working.
Thanks!
OK, now that we know that it is a ribbon-to-pin connection problem, how do I fix the “pin bar” to remain pushed all the way in. It seems that the little clip connector does not quite keep it all the way in.
The problem can be a bad key panel (the ribbon cable coming out of it is not repairable) or a bad connector at the control board. If you can not determine which parts is bad, then replace the control panel first.
I can not find the model number with SS at the end. The closest model numbers I found ended with BB, CC or WW.
Gene.
Here is the correct model number (the one shown is an error):
PDW 7880 J0 1SS
The ribbon is part of the key panel, right?
The ribbon does not seem to disconnect from the key panel. So I have to replace the whole ket panel (about $250).
What is the name (number?) of the part that the ribbon strip pushes into? The black box.
Thanks again.
This “black box” is actually the electronic control board. I understand that the key panel is very expensive but I would recommend to replace it first.
Here are the breakdown diagrams and Replacement parts for General Electric PDW7880J01SS Dishwasher | AppliancePartsPros.com
Gene.
Thanks again, Gene. I actually ordered both parts. I will try the “control panel” (the key buttons panel) first and if that doesn’t work, I’ll replace both parts. Thanks.
Sam
Gene,
Is there any “rocket science” to replacing both of those parts. It looks like a few screws. Anything to worry about? Thanks again.
I don’t think it can be a difficult job. Keep us posted.
Gene.
Gene:
Thanks for the great advice.
I replaced the key button control panel first as you suggested (~ $310) and it works like a charm.
Sorry it took so long to post a reply but the part was back ordered since last month and I just received it today!
Sam
You are welcome Sam. I’m glad it’s up and running. Thank you for the feedback.
Gene.