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Introduction

Use this guide to diagnose and replace the pressure sensor in a GE dishwasher that stops a few minutes into a wash cycle. The pressure sensor, also called the dishwasher pressure sensor or water pressure sensor, can shut the cycle down if it fails or becomes clogged with buildup. This guide uses a GE GDF510PSM4SS dishwasher and the WD21X25468 pressure sensor, but similar GE models may have minor differences.

What you need

Step 1 Disconnect power and empty the dishwasher

Turn off the dishwasher at the wall switch or circuit breaker before touching any parts under the dishwasher.
Confirm the controls don't turn on before you continue.
Remove the upper and lower dish racks to make the dishwasher easier to move and keep the racks out of the way.
Turn off the water supply if you need to move the dishwasher farther than the water line, drain hose, or wiring allows.

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Step 2 Remove the kick plate

Use a screwdriver to remove the two kick plate screws at the bottom front of the dishwasher.
Pull the kick plate away from the dishwasher and set it aside with its screws.
The pressure sensor is under the dishwasher, so the front bottom opening needs to stay clear.

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Step 3 Loosen and pull out the dishwasher

Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop or granite mounting point.
Use an adjustable wrench to shorten the adjustable front legs.
Pull the dishwasher out slightly until you can access the underside from the front.
Don't pull or tilt the dishwasher far enough to stretch the water line, drain hose, or wiring.
Place a sturdy support under the front edge if the dishwasher needs help staying steady.

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Step 4 Locate the pressure sensor

Find the pressure sensor under the dishwasher, behind the kick plate opening.
Place a bowl directly under the sensor before removing it.
Keep a towel nearby to catch any water that misses the bowl.
Water can drain out as soon as the sensor is removed.

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Step 5 Remove and inspect the old sensor

Flip the sensor retaining latch upward and pull the pressure sensor out of its mount.
Let the water drain into the bowl.
Use pliers to release the old sensor from its connection if it doesn't come free by hand.
Grip the plastic body of the sensor instead of pulling on the wires.
Use a flashlight to look inside the old sensor for gunk or debris.
Buildup inside the sensor can cause false readings and make the dishwasher stop in the middle of a wash.

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Step 6 Install the new pressure sensor

Connect the new WD21X25468 pressure sensor in the same position as the old sensor.
Insert the new sensor into the mount in the same orientation as the old one.
Press the sensor fully into place and flip the retaining latch back down.
Make sure the sensor sits securely before moving the dishwasher back into the cabinet opening.

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Step 7 Reinstall the dishwasher

Push the dishwasher back into the cabinet opening.
Watch underneath the dishwasher as you push it in so hoses and wiring don't get pinched.
Use an adjustable wrench to raise the adjustable legs until the dishwasher sits correctly under the countertop.
Use a screwdriver to reinstall the screws that secure the dishwasher to the countertop or granite mounting point.
Leave the kick plate off so you can watch for leaks during testing.

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Step 8 Test for leaks and mid cycle stopping

Restore power to the dishwasher and start a wash cycle with the kick plate still removed.
Watch the pressure sensor area for leaks while the dishwasher runs.
Keep hands, tools, and standing water away from energized components during the test.
If no leaks appear and the dishwasher runs past the point where it used to stop, turn the power off again.
Use a screwdriver to reinstall the kick plate with its two screws.
Monitor the next few wash cycles to confirm the mid-cycle stoppage is fixed.

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Conclusion

Run a few normal wash cycles before declaring the repair complete, and keep an eye on the area under the dishwasher for signs of moisture. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.

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