Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To?

The most frequently replaced parts for KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To

Q: What does KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To mean?

Dishes coming out dirty, arm won't spin, or visible cracks mean your spray arm or support is clogged or damaged. Replace the arm and feed components to restore coverage.

Q: How do I fix KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement - Signs & How-To?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Spray Arm Replacement — What This Part Does

The upper and lower spray arms distribute water throughout your dishwasher during the wash and rinse cycles. Water flows through a feed tube or center mount, spinning the arm so jets spray every dish. When an arm is clogged with food debris or mineral buildup, cracked, warped, or its support bearing and seal are worn, water coverage drops and dishes stay dirty.

Failure usually happens because the spray holes plug up, the arm cracks from impact or heat stress, or the mounting bracket and bearing wear out so the arm wobbles or binds instead of spinning freely. If the upper water delivery tube is damaged or misaligned, the upper arm gets no supply at all. Replacing the damaged arm, support, seal, and tube as needed restores even spray and proper rotation.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Dishes on upper or lower rack come out dirty or still have food residue Reduced spray coverage from a clogged or damaged arm means that rack is not getting washed.
Spray arm does not spin freely or wobbles during the cycle A worn bearing, damaged support, or binding mount prevents the arm from rotating evenly.
Visible cracks, warping, or missing vanes on the spray arm Physical damage to the arm body or spray jets stops proper water distribution.
Spray arm is loose or will not lock onto the center mount or support Stripped threads, a broken retainer, or a worn seal mean the arm cannot stay seated.
Clogs in the spray arm holes or feed tube opening Food particles or mineral deposits block water flow so jets cannot spray.
Rack items are blocking the arm or hitting it during rotation Interference from tall dishes or a misaligned rack stops the arm from spinning and can crack it.

How to Replace It

Disconnect power to the dishwasher at the breaker or unplug the unit, and shut off the water supply under the sink.
Pull out the affected dish rack (upper or lower) to access the spray arm.
For the lower spray arm, twist or lift the arm off its center mount hub. For the upper arm, unscrew or release the retaining nut or clip holding the arm to the water delivery tube or support bracket.
Inspect the spray arm for cracks, clogs in the jet holes, and warping. Check the support bracket, bearing, seal, and water supply tube for wear, cracks, or misalignment.
If the upper water delivery tube or support bracket is damaged or worn, remove any screws or clips securing it to the tub or rack carriage and pull it out. Note the routing and any seals before removal.
Clean any debris from the mounting area and feed openings. Install the new spray arm support, bearing, seal, or delivery tube first if those parts are being replaced, making sure they lock or thread into place correctly.
Attach the new spray arm to the center mount or delivery tube by threading, snapping, or securing the retaining nut or clip. Confirm the arm sits flush and spins freely by hand without binding or wobble.
Reinstall the dish rack, restore power and water, and run a short wash cycle to verify the arm rotates smoothly and spray coverage is restored across the rack.
Check for leaks around the arm mount and support during the cycle, and confirm dishes are being cleaned evenly.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
KitchenAid dishwasher upper or lower spray arm assembly	Amazon \| Match your model and serial number from the data plate inside the door edge or on the tub frame to get the correct arm for your rack configuration.
Spray arm support bracket and bearing (if worn or damaged)	Amazon \| Often sold as a kit with the split ring seal and radial bearing. Check the support part number for your model on the plate.
Upper spray arm water delivery tube (if cracked or misaligned)	Amazon \| Specific to your model. The tube routes water from the pump to the upper arm and includes mounting hardware and seals.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If you find leaks at the tub wall or pump connections after replacing the spray arm or delivery tube, or if the arm still will not spin after cleaning and replacement, call a pro to check the wash pump, circulation motor, or internal feed passages. If you are not comfortable working inside the tub or removing rack carriages and mounting hardware, a technician can replace the arm, support, seal, and tube assembly in one visit and test the full wash system for proper pressure and rotation.