
KitchenAid Dishwashers Reviews
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About KitchenAid Dishwashers
For decades, the KitchenAid brand has been synonymous with kitchen appliances. The dishwashers are known for several important features: high load capacity, robust wash systems and quiet cleaning. These convenient features and a reliable brand name often translate into high costs. While KitchenAid has dishwasher models in the top-of-the-line price range, several models are on the high end of average.
Visit www.kitchenaid.com/major-appliances/dishwashers.html- Third-level rack
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KitchenAid Dishwashers Reviews
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Reviewed June 12, 2009
Our KitchenAid dishwasher is about five years old. The door has come crashing down twice scraping my leg seriously. It could seriously injure a young child. The entire dishwasher has now stopped working.
Reviewed June 7, 2009
I purchased a KitchenAid dishwasher which I really love. The only problem is that the cord holding the door has broken 3 times, falling to the floor and hitting one of us each time. Each time my husband has fixed it. I have read that many people are experiencing the same problem and I believe it is a factory defect. This should be a factory recall.
Reviewed May 31, 2009
We've had our KitchenAid dishwasher for almost 3 years now. It is a very expensive stainless steel model and touch panel across the top. Out of desperation and frustration, I went online to find out why my dishes began to have food particles cooked inside the mugs and bowls. The glasses were all streaky. I phoned customer service and they were useless. I found this site and was in shock at how many complaints there are, however now, I know I'm not losing my mind.
It's been a couple of months, but I thought I would post what I did that seems to have fixed the problems with the cooked on food and residue on glassware. I experimented with detergents, rinse aid, water temp, and here's what I've come up with. First, I turned up our hot water heater to almost high. I run the water at the faucet on hot for a minute and continue while I begin the machine. I only use heavy pot/pans cycle for everything. For two weeks, I used about 1/4 cup of baking soda dumped into the bottom of the machine. I also added a little vinegar to the rinse aid (we must have harder water than the machine can handle). I use turbo jet dry rinse aid. Finish Electrasol tabs with red ball is the only detergent that works so far. Sometimes I throw an extra one in to the bottom of the machine. Even the Electrasol powder or liquid gel doesn't work as well. I hope that helps. I don't know how much crap I'm ingesting from having all the rinse aid dried onto the dishes, but they are clean, clear, shiny and beautiful!
My machine is making a very loud grating noise during some loads, and I'm waiting for the door to fall, the heating element to stop working and water to begin leaking, but until then, I'll limp it along. Trust me, after reading all your comments, when it finally breaks down, I won't be calling the repairman; it will be taken to the dump!
Reviewed May 31, 2009
We purchased the KitchenAid oven in 2005 for over $1,600.00 from Yale Appliances. Today (May 2009) I've used the self-cleaning mode for the first time and after 2 hours, the oven stopped working and I couldn't open the oven door.
Reviewed May 27, 2009
We purchased a KitchenAid dishwasher model KUDP02FRSS1 in March 2006 as part of a house remodel. The dishwasher was installed at the end of a run of cabinets. After about 6 months of use, we noticed a small water circle forming on the side of our cabinet. After several repair calls, KitchenAid could not fix the problem. So they exchanged the dishwasher. We now have a KUDS03FTSS1 with the same problem. This is a design flaw. I believe that if other owners of this model pulled their dishwashers out after the cycle finishes, they would find a buildup of water on the left side of the dishwasher. If your dishwasher is not on the end of a run of cabinets, you would not be able to see the damage being done. I think this model should be recalled.
Reviewed May 27, 2009
I, like many others here, have a KitchenAid dishwasher model KUDS02SRBL that currently leaves what looks like light brown sand on all my glasses; cups; etc., in the top rack. I am experiencing rust spots on some silverware that comes off easily with a gentle scrub. The door has not yet fallen off; however, when the contractor installed it, I asked if he had many repair calls for this brand and/or model of dishwasher. He replied that the hinges on the doors are the major problem. I have tried using different rinse agents. I have tried several rinse-only cycles, different detergents, etc. to no avail. When are we all going to get what is coming to us? I, for one, would love to make this as public as possible to save many other potential KitchenAid appliance buyers from making the same mistake that we have all made. Thank you for this forum.
Reviewed May 26, 2009
I purchased a KitchenAid KUDS01WH6 in 2005 and it, like many others, now leaves a slimy film on everything. I've tried lots of different rinse aids. I use the hottest water possible and nothing helps. I am going to replace the heating element as Joe did and see if that works. If not, I'll have to buy a new washer because my dishes look terrible! I'll let you know what happens. Boo, KitchenAid!
Reviewed May 20, 2009
I bought a new KitchenAid dishwasher for $600 on 10-8-08. The first service call because it quit working was on 11-28-08. The technician installed a new thermo switch. The 2nd service call on 12-9-08, a fuse was replaced and central board. On the 3rd service call on 3-26-09, they replaced the central board. On 5-20-09, a technician came and called an engineer and he told him to replace the wiring harness. There will be a wait of 2 weeks for the part.
I called KItchenAid again with all the information on service calls and all she could offer was extension of the warranty of 12 months. What good is an extension on an 8-month-old appliance that has stopped working 4 times. The dishes have always had a cloudy film on them when it is functioning. If I have company coming, I have to wash the dishes by hand so they look clean.
Reviewed May 18, 2009
I experienced the same issues with KitchenAid Dishwasher (KUDS01FLSS6) as many others. The door hinge cord/spring mechanism snapped, and the heavy door came falling down onto my legs. Fortunately, no one was injured, but because of the weight of the door, it is very dangerous especially with three children that I have taught to put their own dishes in the dishwasher.
Reviewed May 15, 2009
I was just searching the internet to see if KitchenAid has issued a recall on the KUDP02FRA80, and I found this website. And like many of you, my dishwasher hinges broke as well, slamming in my shin leaving a dent in my bone. My 12-year-old severely bruised his leg and I'm praying my 4-year-old never opens the door. This is a serious defect and I am calling KitchenAid tomorrow. I bought this expensive stainless-steel appliance in 2006 because I was told KitchenAid offered quality products. Buyer beware - do not purchase this model!
Reviewed May 14, 2009
For reasons unknown to me, my model #KUDS01FLSS6 dishwasher, purchased in 2005, keeps popping open during cycles. I've had the hasp replaced to no avail. It doesn't seem to have anything to do with the hasp. It's random and sometimes doesn't happen at all and sometimes happens 10x or more during a cycle. I wish I knew what to do short of ditching it and getting a new one.
Reviewed May 8, 2009
The springs on my KitchenAid dishwasher KUD101FLSS6 broke. The door came down very hard and hit the side of my leg, leaving a bruise. I bought the dishwasher in May 2005. My leg still hurts from where the door hit it. It cost me $150 for the repair person to fix the nylon cord and plastic piece that broke.
Reviewed May 4, 2009
We had a problem with our KitchenAid dishwasher that we had bought in December 2008. I called the company in March 2009 to tell them that the lights on the control panel of the dishwasher were flashing and that the dishwasher had stopped working. The company booked a service call. On the day of the service call, the technician checked the dishwasher and said that he had to replace a part. The technician told us that he would have to order the part from the US and that the company would call us to book another service call once the part arrived in Canada.
After two weeks, we called the company and booked another service call, since no one from the company had contacted us. On the day of the second service call, the technician said that he had the wrong part and that he would have to order the right part again from the US and that it would take another week to arrive. After waiting two weeks, I called up the company two times in the next two weeks and they said that the part had still not arrived. I called up the store where I brought the appliance from. The store manager talked to the company and booked another service call. I took my day off from work, but no one showed up.
I called the company again and they had no previous record of me calling them. On May 4/09, I got a call from the company again and they told me that they ordered the wrong part again and that I would have to wait for another 3 weeks before booking another service call. I just want to return this product and get another dishwasher from a different company because I just cannot take this anymore. Any help would be much appreciated!
Reviewed May 2, 2009
Similar to other complaints I've read, while running our KitchenAid dishwasher (model KUDP01FL), white smoke emanated around the front panel, so we turned it off. In this case, the electronic control board inside the door was charred and two connectors partially melted. KitchenAid agreed to replace the control board, but nothing else is covered. Connectors are part of a harness that will cost >$70 from alternative parts supplier. I would obviously be out a few hundred dollars if I had to also pay for labor from a service contractor.
From reading the various complaints about charred/smoking control boards, I (as an engineer) believe that the design of the control board is marginal or components are marginal/defective. Unfortunately, it would take significant effort to investigate or reverse-engineer the design in order to quantify the design margins, understand the reliability of the parts, and pinpoint the root cause of the failure. The company or subcontractor engineers who designed this board must by now know there is a problem and have some idea of the root cause, but that information is unlikely to reach consumer advocates for legal/financial reasons. I am just doing my civic duty by formally submitting my complaint.
Reviewed April 27, 2009
We bought a KitchenAid dishwasher (model #KUD1021RWHO). It was purchased on 12/01/09. The motor burned up in mid April '09. Naturally, it was just out of warranty. I spent 30 years as an R&D engineer developing numerous products, utilizing tests such as wear depreciation, determining life span of particular equipment.
Reviewed April 21, 2009
I purchased a KitchenAid KUDS01FLWH2 dishwasher in 2004. Now it no longer cleans good and leaves a slimy film on the dishes. I practically have to rewash by hand. Just recently, the spring broke on the door and the heavy door now falls to the floor. This is so dangerous. Thank goodness, it did not fall on my child. This door malfunction also happened on my KitchenAid built-in microwave. I'm very disappointed, considering the price I paid for these appliances.
Reviewed April 20, 2009
My KitchenAid dishwasher is also a lemon! The horrible film and food left on everything continues to worsen despite using hot water and some white vinegar washes as recommended by the company. I've tried every brand of additive to no avail. I'm so sorry I chose to upgrade my dishwasher. The heavy door is a nightmare.
Reviewed April 20, 2009
I have been beating my head against the wall as to why my KitchenAid Stainless dishwasher was leaving a white film on the dishes. I disassembled the bottom end, vacuumed out the crud that got by the screen, made sure the water was getting to all points. It was draining correctly. I tried rinse agents and changing detergents, to no avail. I am a Process Engineer by trade, and this one had me stumped. I get Lake Michigan water, and even added a filter to the water line. I went through a battery of tests, the last one putting in clean, handwashed glasses, only to have them come out cloudy. This told me that it was the dishwasher itself causing the problem.
I would like to say I figured out the problem, but it was my wife who saw what I did not. I was so focused on the flushing, draining and water distribution that I missed it altogether. She said, "It's a chemical reaction," and she was correct. The heating element is the cause. It is made of a material from GE called Calrod which contains magnesium oxide and Aluminum oxide. I believe that the material is defective, and breaking down from a combination of the pH of the soap, and an electrolytic action. I replaced the element, and everything comes out spotless. Remember, who solved this long elusive problem, my very smart and observant wife!
Reviewed April 18, 2009
I purchased a KitchenAid Dishwasher (Model# KUDIO1IL) in 2004 to replace the low-end unit which came with our house. My initial purchase had been a Bosch (which came highly recommended). The new Bosch left grit and residue on my dishes from day one. I had a repair guy come out twice. He couldn't find a problem, but was amazed that I'd be having a problem with that brand. After a month, I researched brands and decided to replace it with the KitcheAid. The KitchenAid worked fairly well for about 3 years (I say "fairly" because I had to make sure the dishes were placed just so, not too close together, etc.).
After 3 years or so, "cleaned" dishes would sometimes have a residue on them (mainly in the top rack). Now, just this week, none of the dishes in the top rack are getting clean, and I've found the water isn't reaching the inside of the cups and bowls at all. I've checked the holes in the arm, etc. and they are not blocked. I was hoping to find an answer online and came across this site. How discouraging to read the problems people are having with this brand. For all the hours I spend researching different brands, I probably would have done better to draw one out of a hat. The best dishwasher we've ever had was a Maytag stainless that we left with our previous home. We didn't want to spend the extra $200 or so at the time, though. In retrospect, it would definitely have been worth it.
Reviewed April 14, 2009
I purchased an extended warranty for my KitchenAid KUDP02IRBT0. The unit was purchased new in Feb. 2007. One year and 3 months later, the unit stopped cleaning dishes and soap remained in the dishwasher undissolved. Ten repairs later by three different authorized repairmen (changed motor, circuit board, water fill valve, water fill shut-off, and many other parts), the unit still does not dissolve the soap. I tried liquid soap, powder soap, tablets. The water temperature is over 150 degrees. The water is run before the dishwasher is started, and smoke comes out of the faucet. Now, over 10 months later, there is still no resolution. I want to exercise the lemon law, but apparently, the same part must fail three times! Nobody is able to fix it, and I am without a washer.
I will have no choice but to take them to small claims unless they resolve this claim and will also be informing the AG Office and Missouri's Department of Insurance, Financial, and Professional Registration. The extended warranty division of KitchenAid will not let the customer speak with the Administrative office directly and take your information down for a call back in 3 to 5 business days. What horrible support and poor customer service. I will never buy another KitchenAid or Whirlpool.
Reviewed April 7, 2009
We have a model #KUDS24SE Dishwasher. The racks, both upper and lower, are rusting at the joints. To replace is an outrageous price, $120 for lower, $130 for upper plus tax, plus shipping. Since we have owned the product for more than 5 years, we are stuck. I looked on eBay, no luck. For a few hundred more, we can buy a new dishwasher. It won't be KitchenAid or its owner, Whirlpool, especially after reading about all the door problems. KitchenAid used to be a good product.
Reviewed April 5, 2009
I purchased KitchenAid dishwasher, model number KUDPO1FLSS, in January '05. About 6 months ago, one nylon cord holding the door up broke. I scheduled an appointment for a fix still under warranty and while waiting for part, the other cord broke. Both were fixed under warranty; however, the door's falling apparently compromised the very heavy stainless steel door panel and the screws that hold it are all stripping out now. It is being held by two screws at the top and is obviously a safety hazard. Soon it will come off. I was told by the repairman that I would not be covered under warranty for that because it is cosmetic. The door hinges (nylon and plastic) are obviously design flaws and should be recalled. Unfortunately for me, my door panel has been affected by this flaw or perhaps the door panel is also faulty on its own and this will probably result in my trashing this dishwasher.
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I own a KitchenAid Dishwasher Model Number KUDR01TJ. This is a high end expensive dishwasher with stainless steel interior. I have owned over 20 apartments and placed at least that many dishwashers. The KitchenAid is by far the worst while it is the most expensive. I have replaced the pump motor after about 2 years - assuming that this would make the unit work for a long time to come. 2 years later, the controller went out. Because the unit is only a few years old, I thought I should fix that. Then the touch panel went out. Now, the water does not stop anymore and runs out of the dishwasher over the hardwood floor.
First I thought somebody had put utensils in the basket that kept the float down. So I took the small utensil holder out. A week later, same thing happened again. The whole kitchen floor under water. The water does not stop even if you shut the machine off. So I have to shut the main water valve off. That tells me the water valve is hanging.
I have spent $700.00 on the machine and also $680.33 in parts and still need to purchase the valve at a cost of $48.92. Luckily, I do not have to call a service man every time. I have repaired many appliances myself having lots of rental units. The result is that I either buy a new dishwasher NOT FROM KITCHENAID, or fix this one, one more time. By now everything on the machine is new. I also have a ruined hardwood floor that needs sanding and coating. All in all, I probably have over $2,000.00 in repairs on the washer and the floor damage and still need to buy a new washer.
Reviewed Jan. 7, 2009
We have a 5 year old KitchenAid Superba dishwasher that ran great the first year, then the handle broke. We were under a service agreement so it was fixed with no problem. The last 2 1/2 years it has not cleaned the dishes without having service every 2 months to clean out the food screen. They keep telling us not to put things with paper labels in, to use a different soap, to use the hot water cycle, to run our hot water first. We practically wash our dishes before we put them in the dishwasher and there is never a label in there! I wish I had read this site before buying this piece of junk. It was around $1,000 and is the worst money we ever spent. I called KitchenAid, and they suggested a different service company which would not be part of our contract. When I called, they said they would do the same thing already being done but charge us for it. I will be out dishwasher shopping this week. I will not be looking at KitchenAid and will sure pass this on!
Reviewed Jan. 6, 2009
I bought $600 all-stainless dishwasher. After 3 years, the door seal started leaking. Whirlpool's warranty covers it for 1 year. How can the seal of a top-of-the-line dishwasher leak after 3 years?
Reviewed Jan. 5, 2009
Dishwasher model # KUDO1FLSS6 purchased in May ‘05. The door hinge broke and came crashing down in Dec. ‘08. The motor had to be replaced in Nov. ‘08. The motor was under warranty but I still spent $145.00 on labor.
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On October 14, 2008 at 1:15 AM my Kitchenaid Dishwasher almost burnt down my house and killed everyone and everything in it. Fortunately, I was still awake and standing at my sink when I heard a loud pop, and then black, smelly, toxic smoke began to pour out of the door of the dishwasher near the control panel. I tried to turn it off, and it would not shut off--it just kept smoking. I called the Fire Department and they responded quickly. When the fire department arrived, they could not stop the dishwasher -- they turned off the breaker, disconnected the dishwasher and removed it outside while it was still smoking. The stench was horrible - I am so worried about my birds.The fireman said that if I was asleep, it would have burst out in flames & the damage would have been unthinkable.
I feel completely violated by Kitchenaid. This was their top of the line dishwasher that was stainless steel on the inside and had a special sanitizing rinse (I bought this for my birds). I called Kitchenaid this past July concerned that my Sanitized light was blinking instead of staying on. I paid for a service call. The factory service company told me that their was nothing wrong. This is the area of the control panel that started burning. I contacted the Product Safety division of Kitchenaid, and they sent out their service company to check out why it started burning.
The entire control panel (the brain) and much more burnt. According to the technician’s notes: part failure - main board, touch pad, fuse, sub panel, harness/wire assembly, sub control panel, sub fuse kit, and pump and motor----what is left that didn't have a product failure!!! This is well-documented by the factory service technician as well as the fire department. The technician told me that this was one in a million -- that he has seen dryers catch fire, but never a dishwasher. After reading this website, I see that I am not alone, and that the consumer is in danger. On the documentation I received, Kitchenaid gave the Service company the following instructions: Caught Fire at Control Panel/Verify/Diagnose/Document Carefully. The man said Kitchenaid wanted them to order parts and fix it, but I don't want this dishwasher back. It's a ticking time bomb. Something need to be done to get the word out and warn consumers.
I still don't know the full extent of what my damages will be with my birds and how much it will cost to get the horrible smell out of my furniture, cabinets, drapes, etc. I have already talked to companies regarding smoke damage removal, and most companies use chemicals or processes that would kill my birds, so everything would have to be removed for days to work on.
Reviewed Oct. 13, 2008
I bought this dish washer sept. 9th 03. On sept. 3rd 2003 I had a repair man come out for both my dish washer and refrigerator to be serviced. When the man came out to repair the dishwasher door, I had him do a maintenance check on the dishwasher and refrigerator. A few weeks later and money thrown down the drain so to speak...... I was at home, my two kids were asleep for the night. My husband was out of town, and I turned on my dishwasher! A horrible smell started reeking from my kitchen aid dishwasher! I went to check on it to see what in the world was causing this problem, there was nothing that I could see that was causing the problem. I left the dishwasher door a tad open so that it would not start again. The next day when they went to school, I started my dishwasher.... Or I tried. It would not start at all! I called the repair place where I bought the dishwasher and they never once mentioned that this is the common problem with the dishwasher!
I am very upset for I purchased this dishwasher, then designed my kitchen and its appliances around it. I loved the appearance of the dishwasher. I have been without a dishwasher for two weeks now, trying to get someone to call me back and get this taken care of. The repair man came out today and he replaced the circuit and it started to burn and steam and stink!
Reviewed Oct. 8, 2008
Moved into new house, KitchenAid Superba, stainless steel dishwasher. First door broke, slamming 2-year-old who was standing nearby and my leg (yes, I am interested in class action lawsuit). Paid $55 for technician to fix. Next, Burning smell... and dishes melting, especially cups on bottom. Dishes were seldom clean, glasses foggy. Everything had to be rewashed by hand.
Reviewed Oct. 7, 2008
We have owned this top-of-the-line unit for slightly over 3 years and the unit has failed to work multiple times already. The most recent repairman who came simply decided to do nothing. And he wrote up a false report of the damage blaming us for dropping wood screws into the motor. The repair service providing the warranty has chosen to side with the repair man and will not even consider looking at our unit anymore. We don't have time to chase KA. We bought all KA products during our remodel (fridge, oven, and dishwasher) and every product has required serious repair. Anyone reading this site should be warned: KA is not building a quality product with top-of-the-line service.
Reviewed Oct. 6, 2008
Having the same problems with our KitchenAid dishwasher as posted by Juliet of South Burlington VT (09/29/08). Dishes are dirty, glassware is cloudy to a point of unhealthy. Customer service sent us a water test kit. Unfortunately that did NOT resolve the problem. The repair man already tested our water and recommended Cascade powder and rinse agent which is the brand and types we have been using all along. We have owned many dishwashers before this one, namely GE brands, and our glassware always came out sparkling clean. We were living in the same house with the same water conditions when we had the GE dishwasher just prior to the KitchenAid, so it's not a problem with the water. KitchenAid product simply does a bad job of washing dishes.
Reviewed Sept. 29, 2008
I purchased a KA dishwasher in 2007. To date I have had 7 service calls on the machine. The last repair which facilitated the proper functioning of the steam vent, has rendered the machine completely ineffective. The dishes are dirty and the glassware is foggy, all items must be washed by hand. Kitchenaid refuses to help, sends me to phone menu hell when I try to find someone to even hear my complaint. If it's been more than a year, they just don't care.
Each service all requires 8 hours of my time (service has to come twice, once to identify the problem and again to fix it once the parts have arrived and they give 4 hour windows.) So, 56 hours of my time. I purchased extended service contracts on all my appliances, this cost me $260.
Reviewed Sept. 24, 2008
Dishwasher door crashed down on us. Nobody hurt (yet). Called KitchenAid but no help because it's 5.5 years old and the warranty expired. They told me they have no technical support and I needed to call one of their authorized repair centers. It's obvious with so many complaints about this very problem that this is a mfg. design flaw and the product should have a recall. ANYONE INTERESTED IN FILING A CLASS ACTION SUIT?
No physical injuries yet but until the problem is resolved, somebody - adult or child - is going to get hurt.
Reviewed Sept. 24, 2008
I bought a KichenAid dishwasher model KUDS01FL in 2004. The door came crashing down in 2007 which I have subsequently found out on this website that it is a common failure. I fixed the problem for $16 (thanks to fix it web sites)but it was extremely annoying. I now have just remodeled my home and bought all new appliances except for the dishwasher which upon reconnecting has completely failed with no activity on the control panel.
Based on this website I may simply trash the unit and go buy a Bosch (which is what a friend counsled me to do when I bought the KitchenAid). I am really upset that an $1100 dishwasher appears to be trash after 4 years. What a waste of resources and stainless steel. My father said it used to be timers that went out on KitchenAid dishewashers. Now I guess its $200 control panels! Never again!
Reviewed Sept. 23, 2008
I purchase all KitchenAide applicances for my kitchen remodel. The dishwasher spring broke and when I contacted KitchenAide for the part they didn't even have it. Plus it was past the warranty. They gave me a repair guys name who tried to charge us a huge bill. It still doesn't work right. Now the microwave door spring has also broken. Am I to expect the rest of my appliances to all break?
Reviewed Sept. 21, 2008
Door crashed down, food grinder disintegrated, electric panel disintegrated in plume of smoke. product: dishwasher, model KUDP01FLSS2. I purchased Jan '04. 07/07 the door crashed down (I see this is a common complaint), the cables broke and the door crashed onto my dog. Had to replace both cables. ($160) 2/08 the chopper mechanism (for food particles) disintegrated and had to be replaced. ($200)
9/08 the electric control panel burned up - loads of electric smoke, but no flames. The repairman told me it would cost more than $600 to repair and would probably not be worth it. I am now looking for a new dishwasher and am very disappointed because I have had KitchenAid appliances many times in past with no problems. This appliance was in use about 4 1/2 years and originally cost over $1200.
first two repairs were fixed (at my expense). Last incident was deemed not worth fixing by repair technician. (Still cost me $75 for the analysis.)
Reviewed Sept. 21, 2008
Model# KUDI01ILBL2 Dishwasher was repaired for a pump bearing failure about 2 years ago. Now the replacement pump is failing the same way. I've researched the internet and found a lot of complaints about this series of dishwasher suffering the same failures and how KitchenAid is refusing to resolve the issue. All KitchenAid does is replace the pump assembly and it patches the problem for another couple years.
There is a threat of possible electrocution, fire or death from failure of this part.
Reviewed Sept. 21, 2008
I also have a Kitchenaid dishwasher in which the counterbalance cord broke and the heavy door came crashing down on me. As an adult, I was left with a bad bruise. A toddler could have been severely injured or killed. Apparently, given other complaints, the company has been aware of the problem! Where is the recall?
Reviewed July 25, 2008
Bought this JUNK Kitchenaid dishwasher new in 2001 and hated it from day one until this past weekend. Finally it did the one great thing I have been waiting for, it stopped working totally. I say this was a great thing as I finally got my wife to say yes to me replacing it and this time with a Bosch. This has been 6 years of hell as it never got the dishes clean. We like everyone else tried everything and the company was no help. Kitchenaid will never get another dime of my money. The Bosch was far less money than the Kitchenaid and cleans great. I would love to see Kitchenaid get their due.
If my time counts then I would guess I had 15~20 hours of labor trying to get it to clean.
Reviewed July 23, 2008
We own a Kitchen Aid dishwasher Model# KUDS01FLSS1 We've had nothing but problems with it ranging from replacing the heater, leaking, and poor cleaning performance. Now the cheap plastic and nylon door spring and actuator has broken causing the door to fall and allow the corner of the door to leave a nasty slash on my son's leg.
After doing some research I found this has happened over and over to other people. I'm going to call Kitchen Aid and find out if they plan on addressing this problem. My son and I have both been hurt by the falling door. I believe it is a true safety hazard.
Reviewed July 22, 2008
I moved into a brand new house that had a Kitchen Aid d/w AND a FisherPaykel dish drawer in April of 2006. The Kitchen Aid is top of the line, etc. It has NEVER cleaned the dishes properly. I had the service people out 7 or 8 times. First, I used too much soap, then I used too much Rinse Aid, then I used too little soap, then the water wasn't hot enough.... etc. The FisherPaykel, which is a notoriously temperamental d/w (I had one in my old house) works FINE. It cleans the dishes no problem.
One repairman said that my Kitchen Aid was missing a part, and that he would try and get me a new d/w, since the part could not be replaced.... he has since left the repair company, and the next guy that came said the water wasn't hot enough, then made a FAKE call to KitchenAid (I used redial to follow all the prompts he used and ended up nowhere).
I was so angry, he ran out of the house and they won't send anyone to my house again. I, too, am about to burn the d/w on YouTube. I have called Kitchen Aid on multiple occasions, and they will do nothing. I will never, ever buy another Kitchen Aid appliance again. And, now I have to go buy a new dishwasher.
Reviewed July 20, 2008
Purchased a Kitchenaid dishwasher model KUDMO1FK in September 2001. Has never cleaned well, glasses are filmy, crud on dishes. Clean filter (which is hard to reach) every month. Still does not clean. Door gasket would leak, etcetera. Not what I expected from Kitchenaid. I have one of their mixers that is 20 years old and gets a lot of heavy use with no problems.
Two days ago, heard a loud pop, the door flew open and crashed on my foot. Apparently, this is a common issue. Hurt like the dickens. Am going to file a complaint with the State Attorney Generals office. Doubt it will do anything but I will feel better. Am looking for a new dishwasher this week.
Reviewed July 16, 2008
We have had multiple issues with our Kitchen Aid Dishwasher and Microwave. The door springs/ropes have broken twice on each. The dishwasher now leaves food on the dishes and apparently we need to clean out a filter as all of the other underlying items they have checked are not the problem. Problem is you cannot get to the filter easily.
Even the Microwave needs a service call to change the light bulb! We've complained but it falls on deaf ears. Kitchen Aid referred us back to Sears where apparently they have a contract to handle all service issues on products Sears sells...and when pressed for someone higher up to complain to...they run you around in circles until you are frustrated. We had a (cheap) Kenmore dishwasher for years with NO issues ever. I agree with another post: I would expect a major company to design a door system that can last at least 3 years.
Multiple repair bills...we're probably up to almost $1000 to date on these 2 appliances...over less than 4 years.
Reviewed July 10, 2008
I opened my KitchenAid Dishwasher (model KUDP01FLSS3) door yesterday and heard a loud crack as the door came crashing down. Having read prior entries, this seems to be a pattern with these models. I called the repair shop and it's true that they use the same type of nylon cord to fix it. I also called KitchenAid and they have not heard of this problem before, but I was advised to write a letter of complaint to KitchenAid, Benton Harbor, MI so that they can track these issues. I was not offered any compensation for the repair.
estimated $150 repair bill
Reviewed July 5, 2008
We bought a KitchenAid dishwasher KUDI02IR from Lowes in February of 2007. It was serviced 10 months later for poor performance. Now at just 18 months, I am ready to throw it out. The top rack does not get clean at all; the dishes are not clean, I am pre-washing everything; the glasses are becoming covered in residue.
Yesterday I just re-washed everything by hand it was so awful. You need special wrenches to open the filter to clean it, forcing you to call a repair service. My mother had a KitchenAid for 20 years, and we could easily remove the filter for cleaning. This one never cleans the dishes. Our Whirlpool Gold lasted 5 years, and I thought I was upgrading to KitchenAid, but this is just a piece of junk.
Reviewed June 26, 2008
2 year old Kitchen Aid dishwasher - paid $1200 Stopped working suddenly. Service person came out and decided it was the Wiring Harness which is on a NATIONAL BACKORDER for at least a month. I have a family of 5, the kids home for the summer, 4th of July celebration planned and I am told that there is nothing they can do. I am totally disgusted with the appliance, the customer service
Total emotional distress
Reviewed June 11, 2008
We bought a KitchenAid KUDPO1ILBS3 stainless steel dishwasher for $900 from Sears on 5-26-04. My father had worked in the restaurant business for many years and always had good things to say about Hobart. My Mother had a Kitchenaid mixer that lasted about 35 years and I bought her another one to replace it. I had always thought of Kitchenaid as top appliance brand. From day one this unit failed to wash dishes properly. Regardless of the cycle used all the dishes require extensive handwashing prior to being inserted in the machine. There was often a gritty texture dried on the dishes that I had to soak in a sink of water to remove. I use the recommended JetDry and I have tried a variety of dry dishwasher detergents and cycle combinations but the results are the same. I have tested the hot water temp and it is at the recommended level.
This dishwasher just doesn't wash your dishes clean! After less than a year, the little spring that puts the tension on the door latch lever broke. It didn't seem to affect the latching of the door itself, so no repair was done. As with so many once great American brands, the brand has been compromised and diluted leaving the field to superior imported brands.
This Kitchenaid dishwasher has been the most unsatisfactory appliance purchase of my life. I would give anything to have my old GE back and $900 in my pocket.
Reviewed June 10, 2008
We bought a Superba Kitchenaid SS Dishwasher in 2005 and have has 3 expensive service calls on it: soap holder not opening, door gasket hanging, 4 months of leaking and warping our 200 year old reclaimed hardwood floors, control panel deteriorating (I guess it's not meant to be exposed to water and greasy hands-go figure.) And tonight it died.
I wrote a letter a few years to the President of Whirlpool regarding the complete deterioration of a once great company Kitchenaid--I remember my aunt owned one for 25 years and it ran like a horse. It's a new game today--shoddy machines that require parts and labor for the built in obsolesence! I did get a call after that letter and got a service guy in but it's been a nightmare.
Reviewed June 9, 2008
door does not close, door spring broke, and does not wash properly
Reviewed June 9, 2008
We purchased a Kitchen-aid dishwasher model #KUDI01DLBT0 five and a half years ago from Sears and have had the upper shelf replaced, the door seals replaced, the electronic control panel replaced twice and now are told that the motor bearings are wearing out and it would cost $470.63 to repair it. Needless to say, this is only six months after the warranty expired. We paid the $75 the service man charged and will not buy a Kitchen-aid again.
Reviewed June 6, 2008
I own a 3 year old high end Kitchen Aid Stainless Steel dishwasher. Model KUDS01FLSS2. As a previous owner experienced the door to the dishwasher came crashing down and the handle actually smashed my toe. It sounded similar to others. Cheap or poorly designed mechanism to counter balance the weight of the door.
A week earlier the spring broke on my high end Kitchen Aid Stainless Steel Microwave broke and that door now slams open. Only 3 years old too. Model Number KBHC140HSS0. I'm not happy with Kitchen Aid. Never again. I'm a mechanical engineer and I would expect a large manufacturer to be able to produce a simple door that works for more than 3 years.
Slightly smashed toe and a bunch of aggravation.
Reviewed June 6, 2008
I own a 3 year old high end Kitchen Aid Stainless Steel dishwasher. Model KUDS01FLSS2. As a previous owner experienced the door to the dishwasher came crashing down and the handle actually smashed my toe. It sounded similar to others. Cheap or poorly designed mechanism to counter balance the weight of the door.
A week earlier the spring broke on my high end Kitchen Aid Stainless Steel Microwave broke and that door now slams open. Only 3 years old too. Model Number KBHC140HSS0. I'm not happy with Kitchen Aid. Never again. I'm a mechanical engineer and I would expect a large manufacturer to be able to produce a simple door that works for more than 3 years.
Slightly smashed toe and a bunch of aggravation.
Reviewed June 4, 2008
A couple of months ago, I began experiencing problems with my dishwasher. I tried all the 'remedies' listed in the user's manual to no avail. Then, the unit started making a growling noise during operation. Sometimes, it is VERY, VERY LOUD, and other times it is not as noisy. I called about getting service to only be quoted a $65 minimum service call to troubleshoot the problem; then all parts needed (if motor needs replaced, etc.) could run as high as $400. plus labor. I am not an idiot and just can't justify spending that kind of money on a 5 and 1/2 year old dishwasher.
What really bothers me...I asked the Customer Service gal if they had had any kind of repair history, reports from other consumers, etc. on this particular model and she advised 'NO!' Well, I had already been reading the disappointed flurry of customers who own these real 'gems'.
I had always been sold on KitchenAid appliances. My first dishwasher worked well without problems for 22 years! That's probably not a record, but that is the reason I went back to purchase a replacement Kitchenaid in 2002. While paying $4. a gallon for gas, I can't afford to squander hundreds or even a thousand on a dishwasher that isn't built to last!
Reviewed May 20, 2008
I have had my KitchenAid dishwasher for 5 years and have experienced every single one of the problems listed! It has NEVER cleaned well, leaves a film no matter what I try, takes several hours to go through the Normal cycle and NOW the latest is that the cheapie nylon cord that holds the VERY heavy door on broke.
When the door came flying open, it practically ripped my finger off!
Reviewed May 19, 2008
Purchased Kitchenaid Dishwasher in 2005. I have had motor replaced, the panel has gone out twice, the fuse has been replaced and I am now waiting for the Kitchenaid repairman to arrive. The last time the panel went dead, the Kitchenaid repairman told me that they the fuse tends to go bad. Next time just order one directly and I can replace it without having to call a repairman.
Ok, this time the fuse went bad I also smelled an electrical smell. How scary, since I have three little ones. The repairman is here and telling me he does not have the ability to replace my dishwasher. OK, so now I will have to file a complaint with CSPC just as I did with my Kitchenaid Stove that WOULD NOT turn off. Thank God CSPC made Kitchenaid replace my stove with a new model.
Reviewed May 15, 2008
On Friday, May 9th, 2008 my wife had just started the washer and then the fireworks started, literally, with sparks, flames and smoke pouring out of the top vent. The control board had melted and the hot lead came off the power switch, welded itself to the inside stainless steel tub and burned a 3mm hole in it. Has anyone else had an issue with this particular model? I see other references to KitchenAid dishwasher fires on the web but no mention of model numbers. Customer service has offered me a new washer for $319 delivered and installed. Yes, my machine is six years old, replacing a 20+ year old KitchenAid, and it is long out of warranty. My wife and I are adamant. We're not putting out any money. This is a safety issue. One of us could have been killed. Something just didn't wear out and need servicing, it caught on fire. That shouldn't happen to a dishwasher of any vintage.
The first questions customer service asks is whether anyone was hurt, 911 called or any fire damage. Fortunately, I wasn't electrocuted by touching the door while standing in the puddle of water that was created by opening the door while the unit continued to pump water. Then they start to play hardball saying it was an old machine- not to us- and we had six years of use and never admitting that there could be a serious safety issue with this model. We make safe appliances, we have them in our homes, while never acknowledging that I've seen and experienced otherwise.
I've found customer service to be rather smarmy and telling me that she's not going to argue with me. I told her to fix the old one if she's not going to give us a new one and we go round and round in circles about the repairs to the old one being more than the value of the new one. The one they're offering at a discount doesn't have hidden controls so I'd just as soon have the old one fixed. Customer service's attitude is if you didn't call 911 or have damage to the surrounding area, you didn't have a fire. The supervisor told me that there had never been a recall of a KitchenAid dishwasher. I replied that this may be the beginning of one. Model KUDI01FKSS0 for the record. There are other instances on this board regarding KitchenAid dishwasher fires but the model number has not been included.
Please do so when filing a complaint. I would also like to note that people frequently mention how much better their old washers worked compared to the newer models. My repairman friend related to me that to make the newer dishwashers more efficient, manufacturers use much less powerful motors and rely more heavily upon filtration. The door seal had to be re-glued by me but it was not a big deal. We do have to usually run it in heavy mode and use Cascade as Costco's detergent wasn't doing a good job of getting things clean. It also was quiet when we first got it but it got much louder about the time the warranty ran out so we just lived with it. I talked to the dealer who we purchased the KitchenAid dishwasher from, he related that he had never heard of a fire with a KitchenAid dishwasher. At what unit count does a manufacturer have to admit a product is unsafe with possible fire or electrocution and issue a recall? And how do we find out how many units have caught on fire?
Also spoke with supervisor Jim Kuhn. Photos of damage on website. Have to buy a new dishwasher or take the discounted one from KitchenAid.
Reviewed May 11, 2008
KITCHENAID DISHWASHER DOOR CAME FLYING DOWN!! Wow, I can't believe the KitchenAid Dishwasher door came slamming down and to find out that the spring used a cheap nylon rope molded to a plastic part. Part just snapped and Stainless Steel Dishwasher door came fying down.
Kids opened it and it hti my wifes elbow. She has a brace on now. KitchenAid should be embarrased with this design. Piece of junk. Our model washer is only 3 years old, will be the 2cnd time to service (was suposed to be a high end unit, they should be ashamed with such a garbage) Model # KUDP01FlSS6. Very dangerous. We are fortunate that the small kids were not near by or the dog.
Wife went to the doctor for her elbow. Bruised bone. has a brace. It is pretty serious if the string/spring breaks. Please be careful if you have a KitchenAid Dishwasher, especially if you have small kids. It really comes crashing down.
Reviewed May 10, 2008
Have a Kitchen Aid dishwasher KUDSO1FlSS top of line( at that time) $1000 unit purchased June 2005. Has never really cleaned dishes well and dishes were always wet when a complete cycle was finished. And yes I did use Jet dry and liquid cleaner.
Recently, the dishwasher was shutting down in the beginning of the normal cycle leaving water in the bottom of the unit and rendering the touch control panel inoperative. With the NORMAL and ENERGY SAVER BUTTONS ON NOT (BLINKING) The repair person replaced the board control unit in an attempt to fix the problem. Used authorized service company that goes to training sessions with Kitchen Aid. The serviceman replaced the board ran the unit in the Rinse cycle only and left.
When I went to use unit it did the exact same thing. Normal cycle started then with in a few minutes stopped leaving water in bottom of unit. Service came out again said the unit needed to be rebooted and ran a quick start cycle dishwasher ran through those asked me to load up the dishwasher and start it he would stay and watch it. Guess What??? To his disbelief it stopped in mid cycle.
He called Kitchen aid tech support and they were confused I listened to the conversation and they told him to check the voltage that was fine, then to run the china and pot scrubber cycles which worked he told them that when he hits the normal and energy dry buttons the lights stay on could it be the board a problem with the normal button they replied that a door switch may be needed. He shook his head when he left and said he didn't believe the door switch was the problem they would contact Kitchen aid again and call me.
They did not call when I called them I was told that I needed a door switch and new hinges. Why would the other cycles work If the door switch was faulty and after reading the complaints I think Kitchen aid wants to protect itself by replacing the hinges. The parts are $150 and the service call is another $50 plus. I contacted Kitchen Aid to get a concession on the service and find out if the parts did not solve the problem could I return them because I have already spent several hundred dollars on doing what their techs have advised they said no.
Contacted independent service agent he suggested they replace the board again and maybe consider that the normal button wiring may have gotten wet because of it's location to the steam vent.Kitchen aid customer service said they could not contact the Technical department but offered me a 15% discount on a new Kitchen Aid, Whirlpool or Maytag Dishwasher. That tells me right there that they know they have a defective model Now I am concerned about the door slamming down and a possible fire. I do not want to put in more $$$ while being Kitchen Aids trial and error project.
Trying to repair this unit will probably cost as much as I paid for it if the door doesn't hurt anyone and the possibility of a fire is scary. You would think that Kitchen Aid would be concerned or are they just playing the numbers game that they don't get sued.
Reviewed May 4, 2008
We purchased a Kithenaid several years ago and have had problems with it for the last year. The control panel won't work. The light just flashes and nothing will work. When it was working, I had to put a towel down in front of the dishwasher to soak up the water. There's no telling what it looks like under the dishwasher. I am so disgusted with the dishwsher. I don't have time to hand wash the dishes.
Reviewed May 4, 2008
I have had similar experinces with my Kitchen Aid appliances. I have had top of the line stainless steel models for nearly four years and have had almost all of them repaired at some point. The warming drawer and fridge are the only ones that haven't failed. The dishwasher was so quiet when we first got it, but now it is quite loud.
I had to have the motor replaced once. The door just broke on me AGAIN! First my microwave door hinge broke and it sounded like a gunshot when it happened. Four days later, the same thing happened with the dishwasher and as others have stated these doors are surprisingly heavy. And once they break, it's easy to forget and open the doors like normal only to have them crash down, which cannot be good for the existing parts. So we had both doors fixed by a reputable and speedy repairman, and the repairs cost $500.
That was six months ago and the dishwasher door just broke again! Two weeks ago it wouldn't dispense soap or rinse and then it stopped draining. This door break is the last straw. We had a Bosch in our old place and I think that is where we're headed. I understand normal wear and tear, but when you have an obvious design flaw, you fix it, you don't keep producing it!
Reviewed April 15, 2008
It appears that I am in the minority regarding Kitchen Aid dishwashers. I own a Superba Whisper Quiet model that is over 10 years old and I absolutely love it. It has a stainless steel interior, washes beautifully, very quiet. The only service I ever needed was a new gasket shortly after purchasing the dishwasher.
I only need to fill the detergent cup halfway, I don't use any rinse agent, have only washed on Normal cycle and air dry with excellent results. I believe that my good experience has to do with better quality standards found in older models.
After reading all the horror stories regarding the Kitchen Aid dishwasher, I will definately do my research when the time comes for replacement, but I'm hoping to get another 10+ years out of my current model.
Reviewed April 14, 2008
I have a KitchenAid Dishwasher - Model No. KUDS01FL, which was purchased in January 2004. I have never been satisfied with its cleaning abilities since it has been quite inconsistent in quality and I've simply resolved to have to do a hand prewash of items prior to loading.
But that is beside the point... Just recently upon opening the dishwasher's door, I heard a loud pop and felt what I thought was the full weight of the door release into my left hand nearly causing me to fall to keep it from crashing down. Days later, there was a second pop upon opening the door and I experienced the same release (this time it was the full weight of the door) which is surprisingly very heavy.
I decided to remove the under panel to see what was going on and was amazed to find frayed nylon cords on the ground under both of the hinge areas. It was inconceivable to me that this could be what was securing this heavy stainless door while putting me and my family at risk for injury.
Reviewed April 9, 2008
Had a dinner party for a delgation of 20 people from Russia and had to wash everything by hand before we could feed people. Just what you need when entertaining large groups of people. I have an expensive repair person (insisted on my whirlpool before they would believe the last repair person). This is beyond rediculous.
Reviewed March 25, 2008
We purchased a brand new stainless steel top of the line Kitchen Aid dishwasher a year and a half ago and for some reason the dishes, especially anything I put on the top rack, come out clean. They have a film all over them and I have used different types of dishwasher detergent and Jet Dry and they still come out gross. I have to leave them in to wash multiple times. I alway heard that Kitchen Aid is a great product...not! We will never buy another Kitchen Aid dishwasher again. My husband and I plan on getting a different brand dishwasher in a few months. We are at the point of using disposible plastic cups in our family...
Reviewed March 23, 2008
We purchased our KitchenAid KUDP02CR dishwasher 10 months ago. It has never cleaned properly from the first wash. The dishes come out with a grimy film on them every time. After the first service call in the first 2 months, the repairman claimed that it was because I used too much soap and overloaded it, so I cut back on the soap and the amount of dishes. It made no difference at all. I have tried washing with only 4 items and they still all came out covered in residue. I have to examine every dish before putting them away because it is rare that any are ever clean. The customer service people are always rude and the last call that I made because the soap dispenser won't open anymore was never acknowledged by the repair company that was supposed to contact me to fix it. (its still under the first year warranty) I HATE this dishwasher, and will NEVER buy another KitchenAid appliance, as I am having just as many problems with my KitchenAid toaster. How about taking some responsibility KitchenAid (Whirlpool) and doing something for all of us unhappy people that are stuck with your malfunctioning, useless appliances.
Reviewed March 18, 2008
I bought a KitchenAid dishwasher in December 2003. It has now been serviced at least 7 times: 3 times for door problems (springs, not closing properly), motor has been replaced, pump replaced, serviced for not cleaning dishes completely --- and now in the last week it finally had an electrical fire. My wife started the dishwasher, and a few minutes later there was smoke and a horrible, acrid electrical smell. We had to open all the windows and doors because of the terrible smell. A repairman came and found a burned out control panel and melted electrical harness. I spoke to 2 KitchenAid reps who flat out refuse to do anything. I suggested a credit towards a different dishwasher, but they will do nothing.
This is the last KitchenAid product I will ever buy. They are a horrible company with a horrible product. The repairman told me that the way to go is Bosch.... I will be going that way. I saw another person from Florida had a very similar experience. I wonder if there is a trend, and Kitchen Aid is hiding it....
Fortunately, the only damage was to the dishwasher. But that is because we were home and acted quickly to unplug the dishwasher and insure no fire spread.
Reviewed March 10, 2008
The hinge on my top of the line stainless steel tall tub dishwasher suddenly gave out with a loud bang. I pulled the unit out for inspection and saw that this heavy door is hinged with a piece of cord attached to the most flimsy looking thin piece of plastic. The plastic is broken, and I've ordered a whole new assembly which I'm pretty sure will give way again. What a poor design for such a heavy door. After reading all the problems other KitchenAide customers have been dealing with, I'm preparing myself for the worst. I had been looking at the new built in ranges at Lowe's yesterday, but now I know that they're junk. Thanks for the warnings!
Note: When this hinge mechanism is broken, the door can just fall open and smash you on the legs even though the hinge on the other side is still intact with its silly cord. So if this happens to anyone else, be sure to always totally latch the door as if you are going to turn the machine on. Keep it latched at all times.
Reviewed March 5, 2008
This is a new dishwasher in a new home. It stopped operating shortly after initial use. We had to call an 800 number for service. Then they scheduled a service call. They couldn't fix it. They had to order a part with a one week wait. Then they had to schedule a second visit to repair. The process is not complete as I write this.
I can order a new one and have it installed in one day. Once they have our money, we are nobody and they take weeks to resolve problem.
Reviewed March 5, 2008
purchased kitchen aide stainless steel dishwasher from lowes in sept. of 07. I use jet dry, and have tried multiple types of dishwasher detergents, the dishes are ALWAYS DIRTY, even after being washed and soaked before loading!! have to wash multiple times with just a few dishes in the machine. i have 8 people in my house, and do an average of 4 loads a day!!! i bought this product because it was top of the line!! now i have read dozens of complaints from consumers experiencing the same problem. Cant kitchenaide be held responsible to hold up to the standards the public expects from them?
Reviewed March 4, 2008
Our 4-year-old KitchenAid dishwasher (model # KUDSO1FLBL2) was turned on as we went to bed on 12/25/07. Approximately 30 minutes later, we smelled smoke and entered the kitchen to find black smoke and the odor of an electrical fire emanating from the dishwasher. We immediately turned off the circuit breaker and had to air out our home for the night. A repair man who works exclusively on KitchenAid appliances came the following day and immediately called to report the damage to the dishwasher and our property. We were told they would contact us, which they have, so that we could file a claim. That was done on 2/21/08.
We have requested compensation for replacing the dishwasher and cabinetry due to the unacceptable malfunction. I have done some online research, and it seems that Whirlpool has not been straightforward with these consumer complaints. The USCPSC has no public reports of complaints against Whirlpool since several years ago, and there is nothing on that site about recent models.
The electronic panel was burned and charred as well as the wiring and housing. The custom wood panel was burned and the finish on the adjacent cabinets was ruined. Black soot was on all the adjacent cabinetry. We were not offerred a temporary replacement dishwasher and must keep the unit until the claim has been settled.
Reviewed Feb. 27, 2008
Two years ago, I purchased a top of the line Kitchen Aid dishwasher, model KUDS01FLSS3 for $1,200. Stainless steel inside and out. The machine does an extremely poor job of cleaning, and although I have tried several brands of detergent and I use Jet Dry, glasses frequently come out with a film. Recently, I opened the door to place a dish in the rack, and was startled by a loud pop and the door crashing down on my leg. The corners of the apparently very heavy stainless steel door are quite pronounced and sharp. The result? A long painful gash in my leg, and profuse bleeding. Since then, I've done a bit of research to discover this is not an uncommon occurrence with high-end Kitchen Aid dishwashers. Apparently, the flimsy nylon string/plastic fasteners which attach the door hinge to the door springs fail frequently. Hello? Plastic strings securing the heavy door of a $1,200 dishwasher? Kitchen Aid - have you ever heard of products liability suits and do you care that flimsy and defectively designed products can injure people? SHAME ON YOU KITCHEN AID!
My leg was injured as a result of Kitchen Aid's defectively designed product.
Reviewed Feb. 27, 2008
Kitchen Aid dishwasher has never worked properly. Many service calls, no one can fix this lemon - never buy Kitchaid products regardless of price. Total garbage at any price!!
Out $750 cost of useless Kitchaid dishwasher -- 2 years old!!.
Reviewed Feb. 25, 2008
I purchased a very nice and expensive KitchenAid Dishwasher about 4 years ago. Since I am single and traveled for work, I rarely used it. It stopped working in the middle of a cycle leaving water in the tub. I called Sears and the sent me directly to KitchenAid repair. They charged me $55 to come out and tell me that the electrical panel had gone out (like it had a timer on it to go out) and it would be $355 with only a one year warranty on labor and parts. They told me that the dishwasher was out of warranty because, as I found out, I purchased an older model that had been sitting in the Sears warehouse for at least a year before I purchased it. So, to them, I had a 5 year old dishwasher out of warranty - based on the serial number.
It's all about economics. I replaced my 15 year old dishwasher for an updated one; yes, that one was still working. I was laid off from my job and now I am washing dishes by hand and air drying them in my $850.00 BROKEN KITCHENAID DISHWASHER. Makes me wonder if this is a planned failure. After all, if Kitchenaid made a great dishwasher, we would not have to buy them as often as they would like us to. Right? We need Goverment oversight on KITCHENAID.
Reviewed Feb. 15, 2008
I purchased a KitchenAid dishwasher in January, '05. Last summer, about August, I had a repair call from A & E, to fix the door. My infant grandson was crawling around on the kitchen floor, and was barely missed as the door to my dishwasher fell open. The spring failed and almost crushed my grandson's head. I screamed, and grabbed him up. When the repair man came, he replaced the spring mechanism, but after he left the door would not stay secured. It first popped open at the cycle change, and I propped a chair in front of the door to hold it closed. It worsened, as I first sat in the chair to keep the door secure long enough to complete all the cycles. I had to add a chair for weight. The service call was made today, the strike was changed out, and the repairman said that the hinges and other parts would have to be changed out if it continued. It continued an hour after he left.
After reading all of the similar complaints concerning the KitchenAid dishwasher, I have come to realize that perhaps I made a bad choice in choosing the KitchenAid. I called KitchenAid and was met with one rude lady on my first attempt. A second call was received by a much nicer employee. She said that this was not covered. After thinking about what could have been the end result of the door slamming into my grandson's head, I have decided that had that happened, or should anything like this happen in the future, it will not be me making the call, but rather the courts. If that door had injured my little grandson, I can't help but believe that KitchenAid would be held liable, due to manufacturer's failure to build a safe appliance. The door on this model has a simple closing mechanism (strike), which cannot be locked or secured so that the door cannot simply fall open. As is, it presents a hazard to small children.
Reviewed Feb. 14, 2008
We bought a new house with new appliances almost 2 years ago. The dishwasher has been repaired 8-10 times with some of the parts replaced two and three times. The dishwasher had several problems first it would go into a demo mode, second the dishes were not drying, third the dishes were not very clean and finaly, the dishwasher leakes it had leaked on and off over the past year but on the last repair it turned very bad it would soak our floor.
By the way our new $400.00 GE microwave needed to be replaced and GE would only give us a $75.00 credit towards another GE microwave which was only 4 months out of waranty. This has been a bad several months!!
KithenAid refuses to replace this lemon. Each time it must go through a review process as a result we have been with out a dishwasher for almost 3 months on this last problem and we have 3 kids. Total we have not used it for alomst 6-7 months while waiting for parts and service.
Reviewed Feb. 8, 2008
My wife and I just spent almost $7,000 to remodel our kitchen and add (for the first time in our 8 year marriage) a dishwasher. We bought an expensive, stainless steel, 4 arms on bottom, KitchenAid based on their reputation and recommendation from the associate at Lowe's. Part of the remodel job included Mowhawk Tile Laminate flooring. The tiles are about $5/each, and the flooring job costs approximately $1,600. My wife noticed the tiles coming apart in front of the dishwasher and I immediately called the remodeling contractor. We had used the dishwasher 5 (five) times and it was a brass water fitting leaking all over our new floor. I am waiting on a bill from the contractor right now and I am demanding some sort of compensation. This is ridiculous. I will never buy a KitchenAid again.
Part of our tile laminate floor was RUINED and had to be replaced because of a leaking dishwasher. The contractor did impeccable work and is very apologetic, but it was not his fault. He ran the dishwasher one full cycle, and it did not leak the first time. So, sometime between run 2 and 5, it ruined part of our floor.
Reviewed Feb. 2, 2008
We purchased a NEW home with NEW KitchenAid dishwasher. The dishwasher has an unknown electrical problem which is causing the fuse to blow.
We replaced the dishwasher fuse to use the dishwasher. Replacing the fuse is not solving the electrical problem.
Reviewed Jan. 27, 2008
The 3 year old Kitchen Aid Superba in our house needs to have dishes cleaned before being inserted into the washer, has delicate inner hardware that struggles to handle full loads (who runs their dishwasher half-full?), and randomly leaks. It would be a fine cheap dishwasher. It is not, however, what we expected from a Kitchen Aid. I agree with the post that simply said shame on you Kitchen Aid / Sears.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2008
We purchased a KitchenAid dishwasher on December 18, 2006. After it was first installed, we were very impressed with how quite the wash cycles were. However, after approximately 6 months, we noticed the dishwasher was starting to develop a rather noisy sound to it, which gradually got worse over time.
When we returned from a two week vacation on December 19, 2007, we started to hear a rather loud grinding sound. It now became obvious that the bearings in the pump motor were going bad. However, by the time we realized what the problem was, the one year parts & labor warranty had expired. We continued to use the dishwasher until the pump motor finally seized up on January 20, 2008. Since I have had quite a bit of experience with repairing various appliances, I decided to follow KitchenAid's Trouble Shooting instructions and fix the dishwasher myself.
I first checked the chopper blade to make sure it was not jammed. I then removed the motor assembly. It was clear that at least one of the motor bearings had started to disintergrate. There were metal particles and black dust that fell off the motor as I removed it from the dishwasher. In my opinion, there is absolutely no reason for a motor bearings to go bad in an appliance like this, even after 5 years of use, let alone less than 1 year of use, warranty or no warranty.
Reviewed Jan. 15, 2008
We purchased a Kitchenaid dishwasher (Model# KUDS01FKSS0) because we wanted a really good quality dishwasher. The Kitchenaid reputation was excellent, and this was supposed to be one of their best. This machine has been awful. It suffered from leaks almost immediately. The control panel buttons started falling off, and the controls have become unreliable (push start several times before it starts). Now the pump makes an awful noise during the wash cycle. It has been apart and cleaned, but the noise persists. I contacted Kitchenaid, but received no help.
Either of the two most recent problems will cost more than the cost of buying a cheap dishwasher. This unit cost roughly triple the cost of a cheap dishwasher. I didn't buy to be flashy. I bought what I thought was superior quality, hoping that I was making an investment in longevity. With a five-year-old and a baby due this month, I need to replace a dishwasher and the floor in front of it.
Reviewed Jan. 14, 2008
The lower spray arm of Superba KitchenAid dishwasher malfunctioned and dishes were coming out dirty. I took the spray arm assembly apart and noticed a white plastic collar which was ground down. When I compared it to the exploded view on the website, I realized it was put in upside down. I ordered a new collar, inserted it as the exploded view showed and my dishes were clean again.
Reviewed Jan. 8, 2008
I always clean the dishes before going to bed. I put everything in my KitchenAide Dishwasher and turn it on. The dishwasher has had a few problems in the past, for which I called Sears, paid their ridiculous service fees, and got it fixed. Well, Sunday I filled it up and turned it on and went to bed as I've done a thousand times. My husband was still watching TV. Within 10 minutes he smelled something, looked over at the dishwasher, and there were flames coming out of the top of the door on the dishwasher. The control panel/wiring in the door was on FIRE! Thank God, he stayed up, or he and I and our two boys would have been sleeping while our house went up in flames! DO NOT EVER TURN YOUR DISHWASHER ON AND LEAVE OR GO TO BED. I would have NEVER thought of faulty wiring in the dishwasher!
We called KitchenAide,and the lady was rude. So my husband said, "Fine, we'll call a lawyer, we'll call the news and whatever else we can do to expose this problem! The lady changed her tune and had someone out the next day. We are awaiting their response. What losers--to have this problem and not inform people. How many people died due to fires from dishwashers!?
Reviewed Jan. 8, 2008
My wife and I completely rebuilt/remodelled our kitchen using Kitchen Aid appliances 2 1/2 years ago. One of the new appliances was a Kitchen Aid dishwasher with a stainless steel liner. We purchased Kitchen aid based on consumer write ups and our salesman's recommendation. What a mistake. We have had repairs performed four times on our new gas slide in range and now twice on our dishwasher. The dishwasher never (in my opinion) performed up to standards as far as drying the dishes, pots, and pans. They were always wet when a complete cycle was finished. And yes we did use Jetdry and liquid diswashing cleaner. Recently, the dishwasher has failed completely by shutting down in mid cycle leaving water in the bottom of the unit and rendering the touch control panel inoperative. The repair person replaced the touch control pad unit and the control unit (PCB) in an attempt to fix the problem. Two days after the repair the dishwasher again failed with the same problems. And again the repair person will have to come out to the house. The dishwasher has now been inoperative for a total of 2 weeks with more down time expected. The repair person said that moisture causes problems with the PCB and the touch control panel. I guess that the Kitchen Aid engineers have yet to discover that a dishwasher uses hot water during its operation. We have also had multiple problems with our gas range going inop requiring 4 service calls but that's another experience. I would not recommend any Kitchen Aid appliance be purchased by any individual or business.
A tremendous amout of my time has been wasted for repairs plus repair costs which are exorbitant.
Reviewed Jan. 4, 2008
My young (5-6? year old) Kitchen Aid mixer began to leak oil (color of vanilla extract, consistency of honey), down the beaters and into the batter! Consumer reps said this is due to infrequency of use, and it is my job to run in at least once a week for 10 minutes at high speed. OK. Did that. It continued to leak whenever the batter became stiff. Consumer reps repeated their directions, and assured me that the oil is food grade and safe for consumption. This is odd, as it smells like petroleum. It is also unnerving to watch brown oil dropping into chocolate chip cookie batter, and to think about the grandchildren who might have eaten these cookies had I not completely freaked out. Kitchen Aid gave me no option, so I purchased a new mixer, and reported them to Better Business.
Now they have agreed to fix the mixer at no cost to me. So...soon I'll have a refurbished second mixer, which I could sell. But what do I say to a buyer, given its history? More to the point, it concerns me to read so many posts online regarding this very issue. If it is so common, why doesn't the manual stress that frequency of use is important. Why doesn't it include 'oil leak' in its trouble-shooting section, with remedies, and assurances about safety-for-consumption questions? I cannot afford the high price of having the oil tested myself, but I am surprised that someone has not. And why has KitchenAid not fixed the problem--if not actually, then at least with replacement mixers for their unhappy customers?
Reviewed Dec. 19, 2007
We bought one of the high end KitchenAid dishwashers in 2002. It performed well in the cleaning category, but it lasted exactly 3 years, required 3 service calls, was down for a total of 6 weeks, and I finally took a cash settlement from our 3rd party extended warranty company to let them walk away from it. The service tech said he heard they improved the electronics in the newer models (ha!). When we replaced the failed unit in June 2005, I could not get a Bosch with the necessary dimensions and features I needed. Consumer Reports and others falsely rated the KitchenAid highly and few complaints appeared around the web at that time.
We bought a new Superba dishwasher for $1,400 including the extended warranty. Guess what...18 months old and the electronics have totally failed. To add insult to injury we have been without it for 16 days now, and they can't get the parts due to backorder in manufacturing. Right now the ETA for the parts places the dishwasher out of service for over one month with probable repair around January 2nd or 3rd (yes, we have to live through the holidays without a dishwasher), and my demands to KitchenAid to replace the unit fall on deaf ears. Their poor quality and poor parts availability, and poor service commitment has repeated four different times on two appliances for us. We are done purchasing any KitchenAid appliances.
Warning: KitchenAid builds unreliable appliances and refuses to provide its customers with reasonable quality service! You don't have to be an engineer to understand that KitchenAid designs flawed dishwashers: I watched the technician open the door panel to diagnose our problem a couple of weeks ago and saw that they provide no insulating shielding of fragile electronic components from the 150+ degree temperatures present in the stainless wash tubs. My 10-year old kid could figure out that the point of most likely failure will be KitchenAid's fragile electronics. Shame-on-you, KitchenAid-Whirlpool, for foisting poorly designed, expensive garbage on the unsuspecting public!
Reviewed Dec. 15, 2007
Bought the top of the line KUDS01FL in 2003 for $1300. Four years later we have had 2 key pads replaced, 2 control modules, the door hinge has now broken twice. Repair total? Over $900 of 70% of the purchase price. Kitchen Aid has been very accommodating by offering us 15% off a new Kitchen Aid dishwasher! Hope everyone is still with me and not cleaning spit up coffee off your monitor from laughing. If this was a car this would be an open-and-shut lemon law case. How does Whirlpool get away with this?
I grew up with Kitchen Aid; they were the best, most reliable name in dishwashers. Today they are a joke and do not stand behind their products. Amazing to read all the similar problems with this same dishwasher. I am sure we are just the tip of the problem. A bigger issue is that it seems newer models have the exact same problems. They have not redesigned the basic hinge, key pad and control panel issues.
Reviewed Dec. 6, 2007
I bought the very expensive top-of-the-line KitchenAid dishwasher (KUDPIFLSS6) in 2005. In March 2007 the dishwasher was not functioning at all. I had three technician visits ($180) before they decided to replace the computer and pump. It is less than a year later, and it is not functioning again.
Already had to pay $180 for technicians. This along with the inconvenience of having to wait around for service visits and the lack of having a working dishwasher has been extremely frustrating; and now, less than a year later, it looks like I am again going to have to endure this cost and inconvenience on a product that was very expensive. I was willing to pay more to get more. Boy was I wrong.
Reviewed Nov. 23, 2007
I bought a Superba dishwasher, model KUDS01DLSS2 two years ago, which broke right after it was installed. Kitchenaid took care of the repair. The problem had to do with the computer board. The dishwasher worked for a couple of months and needed another board replacement. A year went by with no major problems except for the door hinge that has always been noisy. Then two weeks ago the computer board broke again. We called Kitchenaid, and we were told that the warranty on labor was over, but the parts were covered; but we had to get a Kitchenaid affiliated technician to fix it.
We are very disappointed at this product since we spent almost a $1000 expecting a long-life appliance. We have had similar problems with a Kitchenaid refrigerator, for which we were forced to buy an extended warranty from Kitchenaid. The refrigerator has had at least three repairs. The ice maker has been replaced twice, and the interior walls are cracking which cannot be fixed, but we have learned to see the unappealing interior of our over $2,000 refrigerator. The technician told us that this is a defect of these appliances.
I would like to be informed if there is a recall or any legal actions going on against Kitchenaid. I feel that I have been robbed, and that Kitchenaid should compensate my troubles. Next time I buy appliances, I will go with a less expensive brand and more realistic advertising. I have been left without the use of my Kitchenaid appliances for weeks. I have had a hard time getting a reliable technician to service them.
Reviewed Nov. 22, 2007
The light is on but the washer is not operating at all. This will be my 8th Service call on this dishwasher
KitchenAid Dishwashers Company Information
- Company Name:
- KitchenAid Dishwashers
- Website:
- www.kitchenaid.com
