Kenmore dishwasher grinding noise

Hi: We have a Kenmmore dishwasher around 9 years old. Suddenly started making a kind of grinding, buzzing noise. Can you suggest any way I can trouble shoot this? I’m not even sure what the model number is - it says 665 on the door label, but that didn’t show up on the Sears web site. Thanks in advance. Simon

Simon,

“665” is just the prefix which should be followed by 7 or 8 numbers. You can find it on the door frame. We need the complete model number to provide most accurate advice.

Gene.

Hi Gene: The model number must be 66515822000. Simon

Simon,

Remove the toe panel and check where this noise is coming from: the motor or pump. Check if there are any signs of water leak. Post the results.

Gene.

Hi Gene: It’s hard to tell, but I think it’s coming from the motor. There’s no obvious leak. Simon

Hi Gene: Did you get my last message? I’m getting sick of doing the washing up by hand! :slight_smile:

Simon,

If that noise is coming from the motor, the correction is to replace the pump and motor assembly. The part is not cheap and your decision fix it or buy a new one, should be based on the age and condition of the dishwasher.

Gene.

Thanks Gene. Do you know what the lifespan of a dishwasher like this is expected to be? I think ours is about 8 or 9 years old. How complicated is it to replace the motor/pump? Can someone who’s relatively handy do it?

If you know how to handle a simple tools, this part is not too difficult to replace yourself. Lifespan? It’s a good question! Too many things can affect it.

Gene.

Hi Gene: I see you can buy the motor without the pump, and it’s a lot cheaper. Would you advise me to try that?

No, because it is not clear what exactly is wrong. You also will need the impeller kit and this job is much more complicated.

Gene.

Hi Gene: Digging around inside my dishwasher again. Kenmore model number 66515822000. I’m trying to remove the pump/motor assembly, which I did before per your instructions. But this time it seems to be stuck. I’ve rotated the clamps that hold it in place, removed the wiring and check valve, but I can’t lift it up out of the hole from inside the dishwasher. Any suggestions? Thanks, Simon

Hi Simon,

Try to push it up from under the dishwasher. Do it on the bottom of the motor. It did work for me many times.

Gene.

Hi Gene: Thanks as always for your advice. I managed to get it out eventually - just well and truly stuck in there. Really appreciate this site - super helpful. Cheers, Simon

You are welcome Simon. If there is anything elese we can help you with, just drop us a line.

Gene.