How to Replace Whirlpool Dishwasher Door Strike WP8574157

Struggling with a Whirlpool dishwasher that refuses to latch properly or start washing? The hidden issue might be a compromised door strike, a common culprit that interrupts smooth dishwasher operations. Dive into our easy-to-follow how-to video below, and get your trusty kitchen helper back on track in no time!

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Is your Whirlpool dishwasher not latching properly or failing to start wash cycles? The culprit could be a damaged or faulty door strike. This small plastic part attaches near the door opening and connects with the door latch mechanism to securely fasten the door during operation. When the strike becomes cracked or worn out, you’ll need to replace it to restore normal dishwasher functionality.

Watch here: How to replace door strike

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Tools and materials needed

Before disassembling your Whirlpool dishwasher, you need to purchase the correct replacement door strike.

You’ll also need a few key tools:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Gloves for protection
• Safety glasses for eye protection
• Door strike part #WP8574157– Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct part for unit. 

Safety first

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or parts. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• 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.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• 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.
• If your appliance has any parts that hold water, 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.

Step 1- Open the dishwasher door 

The strike connects the door on one side and the door latch mechanism on the other side. Here’s how to access it: 

1. Open the dishwasher door.
2. Locate the rectangular plastic piece mounted near the top of the door opening along the right or left edge (placement varies by Whirlpool model).

Step 2- Remove the old strike 

To detach the strike from your appliance, follow these steps:

1. Locate the small metal retention tabs protruding from each end of the rectangular part.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry down the left tab while simultaneously pulling that side of the strike towards you. This disengages the tab from the outer bracket.
3. Repeat the same process on the right bracket. (Caution: Be gentle as you pry and pull to avoid cracking the plastic housing.)
4. Once released on both ends, you can remove the entire Whirlpool door strike.

Step 3- Install the new door strike

To install the new strike follow these steps: 

1. Make sure you line up the strike correctly
2. Slide one end of the strike into the empty bracket, and you will feel it click into place
3. Gently bend the outer retention tab inward while sliding the other side of the strike into the opposing bracket
4. Make sure both tabs securely hold the component by checking for firm clicks
5. To make sure you have a correct alignment, gently press the strike further into place using your fingers, making sure it stays centered and doesn’t slide out easily. (Note: Avoid over-bending the tabs to prevent damage during re-installation)
6. The base of the strike should sit nearly flush against the dishwasher’s outer bracket.

Step 4- Verify and test

You’re now ready to restore power and water supply to your Whirlpool dishwasher to test operation.

1. Turn the circuit breaker switch back ON
2. Ensure water is connected and fully pressurized
3. Get rid of any standing water inside the dishwasher tub
4. Open then latch the door properly several times to confirm functional engagement with the new strike

You should see and hear the latch grab firmly when you close the door. If it fails to catch, slightly adjust the strike position or inspect if the latch itself works appropriately.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the door strike in your Whirlpool dishwasher. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two 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.

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