KitchenAid Dishwasher Impeller Problems — How to Diagnose and Which Part Fixes It
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
The impeller in a KitchenAid dishwasher is a small plastic rotor inside the wash pump that pushes water through the spray arms. When the impeller is cracked, clogged, or no longer attached to the motor shaft, water pressure drops and the dishwasher will clean poorly, make unusual noises, or leak. Because many modern dishwashers integrate the impeller into the pump/sump assembly, a bad impeller often means replacing the pump assembly. Diagnosing an impeller problem starts with symptoms: grinding or whining noises from the bottom of the tub, visibly poor wash results, or leaks originating near the sump area. Visual inspection (remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly) can reveal cracked impeller blades or debris blocking rotation. If the impeller is damaged or the pump bearings have failed, replacement of the impeller or the entire pump/motor assembly will usually restore proper circulation and performance.
Common Symptoms
Dishwasher cleans poorly, loud grinding/whining/humming from the bottom, visible debris in sump, leaks near the bottom, cycles that stop or error codes related to wash pump.
Common Causes
- Impeller blades cracked or eroded from age or chemical exposure
- Foreign objects (glass, grit, small utensils, broken dishes) lodged in the sump blocking the impeller
- Worn pump bearings or motor failure causing the impeller to seize or not spin
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Remove the lower spray arm and filter, then carefully inspect and try to spin the impeller by hand; if it’s cracked, free of play, or doesn’t rotate smoothly, the impeller or pump assembly needs replacing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm the impeller is actually the problem?
Turn power off and remove the lower rack, spray arm, and filter. Inspect the sump for cracked or missing impeller blades and clear any debris. Try to rotate the impeller by hand — it should spin freely without wobble. If the impeller is damaged, loose on the shaft, or the motor hums but the impeller doesn’t turn, the impeller or pump assembly is faulty.
Can I replace the impeller myself and how much will it cost?
If the impeller is a separate replaceable part you can do it yourself with basic tools, a multimeter, and the dishwasher model number to order the correct part. Expect 30–90 minutes for a DIY job. Many KitchenAid models integrate the impeller into the pump/motor assembly — in that case you’ll likely replace the entire pump (1–2 hours). Parts cost ranges widely: impellers or seals are inexpensive ($10–40), while a full pump/motor assembly can be $75–300 depending on model. If you’re unsure, photograph the underside of the tub and model tag and consult parts diagrams or a technician.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.