How to Troubleshoot & Replace Ge AP4355961 / WD13X10045 Handle Actuator

I bought spare part from AppliancePartsPros.com and followed the instructional video. It was easy and saved a few bucks. 

Ordered parts, waited for them to arrive Took door apart, installed new parts Put door back together shut door (it stayed shut) Washed dishes, opened door (it opened) Dishes were clean (no water on floor) ALL DONE AND IT WORKS 

I ordered the part and watched the video on appliance pros on how to install the new handle actuator. My mom and I opened the door and followed the instructions to get the old one out. Our model was not exactly like the video, but, it provided us enough guidance so we could figure it out. We replaced the part and put it back together. Very easy and cheap. I am sure it would have cost over $100 to call out a repairman. We spent $15. 

I Used a Phillips screwdriver to take apart the handle mechanism, saw that there was a broken plastic part, went to and entered my model #. I saw the broken part from the diagram that the website provided and learned that it was the handle actuator, read the reviews and learned that it was a common problem. I ordered the retainer handle that the handle actuator sits in just in case it was weak or had a crack that I missed. Parts were inexpensive, shipped quickly. With shipping, under $20. There is a Youtube video on how to repair/replace. Wasn't necessary to watch video, easy fix. I am frustrated with GE due to the fact that a cheap piece of plastic could render my entire dishwasher useless. I am thankful for AppliancePartsPros.com 

Took out 10 screws then removed old part and replaced with the new part. 

I replaced the interlock switch, the video on this site was VERY helpful 

Watched the video 4 or 5 times and I finally GOT IT!!! only took me 8 minutes TOTAL :) Thank you !!! 

Replaced actuator plunger and interlock switch. A little difficult to pry off connections to interlock switch due to wear from chronic moisture, but once off, re-install simple and the dishwasher was functioning in 10 min. Definitely recommend trying it yourself before calling a service repair person. 

This is the best part. With many parts listed, there is a video showing you how to replace the part you ordered. How cool is that. My job went from 2 hours to 1/2 hour. ( No left over parts) Joke 

Installed a door interlock switch assembly. Cleaned wiring connections from the power supply. Works perfectly now.