DIY Guide: How to Replace Dishwasher Roller Wheels

Is your dishwasher’s bottom rack stubborn and hard to slide in and out? The problem likely lies with the small plastic rollers on the rear underside of the rack. When these wheels and axles deteriorate, the rack drags and sticks instead of rolling freely. Replacing the dishrack roller assemblies can restore effortless motion and proper dishrack function. 

This is a straightforward repair any DIYer can complete with basic tools in about an hour. Here, we’ll walk through the full process of replacing dishwasher rack rollers, using a GE dishwasher as an example.

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Diagnose the problem

Before ordering parts and tools, follow these steps to inspect your dishwasher to make sure the rollers need replacement:

1. Pull out the bottom rack completely until resistance is felt. Try gently sliding it in and out. Notice if the rack catches, resists movement, or feels uneven. 
2. Check the two rear roller assemblies attached to the underside. Examine the white plastic wheels and axles. Look for cracks, chips, excessive wear, or misshapen parts. 
3. Spin the wheels to check for stiff rotation or grinding. If you find any damage, new rollers are needed.
4. Check for and clear any debris blocking the rack path. 
5. While you’re inspecting, make sure the rack itself isn’t bent from rough handling. Check that it sits flat and centered without twisting. Bent rails require a full rack replacement.

Once we confirm that the source of the problem is isolated to bad rollers, we can proceed with the repair.

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Replace the roller wheels

Follow the steps below to replace your dishwasher’s roller wheels:

Obtain the correct roller kit

Make sure you have your model number on hand, as you’ll need to get a replacement kit specifically made for your dishwasher. You can visit us at AppliancePartsPros.com to purchase the parts you may need. Keep in mind that GE dishwashers, for example, use two different roller types – smaller front rollers and wider rear ones. 

Kits typically include two new roller assemblies with wheels and axles, and having the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part guarantees proper fit and operation. It’s best to avoid improvising with universal or off-brand rollers so you can prevent damage to your appliance.

WATCH: How To Replace A GE Dishwasher Lower Dishrack Assembly

Shut off the power and water supply

1. Locate the breaker supplying power to the dishwasher and switch it off. This eliminates the risk of shock while working on the machine. Don’t ever attempt to repair an appliance with live power.
2. Turn off the hot water supply line under the sink that feeds the dishwasher. Shutting off the water prevents leaks while disconnecting and moving components.
3. Disconnect the intake hose from the hot water valve. Have towels ready to catch any residual water still in the intake hose when it’s detached.

Remove the lower rack

1. With the power disconnected and the water off, fully extend the lower rack out from the tub until it stops. 
2. Grip both sides of the rack and gently lift upward. This releases the rear wheels from their floor channels allowing the rack to pull out freely.
3. Set the removed rack on a towel or tray to contain any water drips. Take care not to bend or twist the rack. The rollers are now accessible for replacement.

Detach the old rear rollers

Closely examine how the rear roller assemblies attach to the rack. Each axle is inserted into a slotted plastic bracket molded onto the rack frame. A clip snaps over a tab on the axle to secure it in place.

1. Press down on the clip with one hand while lightly twisting the rear roller wheel with your other hand. The roller should detach from the axle. Remove both rear rollers the same way.
2. Discard the old parts.
3. Leave the front rollers intact for now. They commonly last longer than the rears and don’t usually require replacement.

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Install the new rollers

The new dishrack roller kit will contain two replacement axle and wheel assemblies. Here’s how to install them:

1. Locate the rear roller positions on the removed rack.
2. Orient the new wheel assembly vertically with the axle pointing up.
3. Align the axle tip with the slotted bracket. 
4. Apply firm pressure while rocking slightly to insert the axle into place. It should click in fully when seated correctly. 
5. Repeat for the other side. 
6. Rotate both wheels to check for free movement.

Reinstall the rack in the tub

1. With new, smooth-spinning rollers installed, carefully slide the dish rack back into your dishwasher, lining the rear wheels with the support channels along the tub floor.
2. Slowly lower the rack while allowing the wheels to drop into the channels. Take care not to bend the axles. Make sure the rack is centered left-to-right within the tub.
3. Push the rack fully in until resistance is felt. The freshly lubricated wheels should glide much easier now.
4. Gently open and close the door to engage the glide tracks. The rack should roll in and out effortlessly now without catching.
5. Make sure the rack extends fully when pulled all the way out. When closed, it should sit centered without twisting. Visually confirm the new wheels align with the tub floor channels. If anything seems misaligned or incorrect, repeat the appropriate step(s).

Restore water and power

1. Reconnect the intake hose to the hot water valve.
2. Reconnect the dishwasher’s water supply line to the hot water valve. 
3. Turn the valve back on and inspect closely for any leaks as pressure resumes.
4. If you don’t find any issues, restore electricity to the circuit breaker.

Confirm proper operation

It’s important to test the dishwasher to make sure the rack and new rollers are correctly placed to prevent unwanted shifts and broken dishes.

1. Start a wash cycle before loading the dishwasher with dishes to verify the smooth motion of the repaired rack. 
2. Run a test load to verify the dishwasher cleans properly without rattling or racks shifting out of position. 

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Maintain your dishwasher

Along with replacing worn parts like rollers, be sure to follow these maintenance tips to maximize your dishwasher’s lifespan and keep it running smoothly:

1. Every few months, take the time to inspect the door gasket and tub interior. 
2. Clean out any debris in the filter basket.
3. Use a citric acid-based cleaner to descale mineral buildup. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners which can degrade plastic components. Check your owner’s manual for more cleaning guidelines.
4. Lubricate the rack glides with silicone spray to facilitate smooth movement. 

Thanks for reading! We hope you found this information useful. If you have further questions or need replacement parts for your dishwasher or other home appliances, have your model and serial number ready and visit us at AppliancePartsPros.com. Also make sure to follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel!