How to replace dishwasher door handle WPW10401481 on Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag units

Are you struggling with a broken or missing handle on your Whirlpool, KitchenAid, or Maytag dishwasher? Continuous use can leave the door handle cracked or damaged, but don’t worry—there’s an easy DIY fix that won’t break the bank. Watch our step-by-step video just below to see how you can restore your dishwasher’s functionality within minutes!

Got a Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag dishwasher with a broken or missing handle?

You may use the dishwasher several times a week, and that means the door may wear out from opening and closing so much. You might see cracks, breaks or other damage to the handle.

Replacing it is an easy, inexpensive DIY repair that can be done in just a few minutes.

You can find a replacement door handle WPW10401481 here. If you need other replacement parts for your dishwasher, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Let’s walk through the repair process so you can better access the inside of your dishwasher.

Watch the full repair here

Read more: Best Loading Techniques For Your Dishwasher

Necessary supplies

• New door handle WPW10401481 (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dishwasher model)
• Torx 15 driver
• Torx 20 driver
• Small flathead screwdriver

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Replacement instructions

Step 1 – Open the door

1. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it.
2. Shut off the water supply.
3. Open the dishwasher door.

Step 2 – Remove the door panel screws

1. On each side of the dishwasher door, find the screw holes along the edges.
2. Use your Torx 15 driver to remove the three screws from each side of the panel.
3. Lift and separate the door panel.

Step 3 – Disconnect and remove the door panel

1. Lift up on the loose door panel and close the dishwasher door slowly. The panel will drop down.
2. Pull the panel forward to disconnect it.
3. Set the panel to the side.

Step 4 – Detach the lower door handle screw

Underneath the handle, find a single screw. Use your Torx 20 driver to remove this screw.

Step 5 – Remove the top control panel screws

1. Open the dishwasher door slightly.
2. Use a Torx 15 driver to detach the four screws that go across the top of the control panel above the door handle.

Read more: What is Dishwasher Insulation and Why is it Important?

Step 6 – Separate the control panel from the door

1. Let the dishwasher door open a bit more.
2. Carefully lift and pull the control panel away from the door. You may need to wiggle or twist it gently to detach it completely.

Step 7 – Release the locking tabs and remove the old handle

1. Examine the back of the control panel where the handle is attached. You’ll see small locking tabs on either side of the handle.
2. Take a flathead screwdriver and gently pry/release each of these tabs. This will allow you to lift the broken door handle up and off of the control panel.

Step 8 – Attach the new door handle

1. Align the new handle into position on the back of the control panel.
2. Make sure the locking tabs fully snap into their slots.
3. Line the control panel up and allow the door to open slightly.
4. While holding the control panel to the door, fully open the dishwasher door.
5. Insert and tighten all four Torx 15 screws across the top of the panel.
6. Close the dishwasher door and replace the lower Torx 20 screw underneath the handle.

Read more: Leaving Dirty Dishes in the Dishwasher: How Long Can It Wait?

Step 9 – Reassemble the dishwasher

1. Close the door slowly and line up the panel so the tabs are inserted into the hinges.
2. Lift the dishwasher door and carefully open it while holding the panel.
3. Make sure the panel tabs are aligned along the top with the control panel.
4. Insert and tighten the three Torx 15 screws along each side to put the outer panel back in place.
5. Close the dishwasher door and try opening and closing it.
6. Restore power to the dishwasher and turn the water supply back on.

Read more: Reduce Water Usage In Your Dishwasher

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the door handle in your Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag dishwasher.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over 2 million parts and most orders arrive in 2-3 business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel. We can also help you troubleshoot common dishwasher problems here.

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