How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP5985143 / W10811166 Dishwasher Control Panel Touch Pad

We were worried we would have to buy a new dishwasher, as our buttons weren't responding and the dishwasher wasn't cleaning well. But it was only 2 years old, and it really feels like dishwashers should last longer! We decided the two issues were separate, and decided to try to see if we could tell where the electric problem was. When we took off the door and the control panel box, we could see discoloration in the wires through the plastic strip covering them. I googled for the dishwasher model and multiple supposed "Maytag" sites said they didn't have it in their records! Not only did AppliancePartsPros.com recognize the model, the site had extremely helpful diagrams to determine the part needed (we couldn't tell for sure which number on the part was the part number, so this was extremely helpful). It didn't seem like they had the part available, but I called (since I couldn't find it anywhere else) and it was, in fact, available, and the phone representative was extremely helpful and pleasant. While we waited for the part to arrive we figured out how to dissemble the spray arms and take out the traps and clean everything. The diagrams on AppliancePartsPros.com were very helpful when we went to put it back together!! The part arrived and we put it in and now our dishwasher works again! I am so pleased! And relieved that we don't have to buy a new one. 

Needed to determine if problem was with control panel (keypad) or circuit board. Cleaned corrosion off ribbon cable with Majic Eraser as per directions on internet (http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-fix-your-Maytag-dishwasher-on-the-cheap/), and dishwasher lights worked better but dishwasher still wouldn't run. Then ran diagnostics per dishwasher “users manual/troubleshooting guide” that came with the dishwasher by pushing keypad buttons in 1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3 sequence. Instructions said to press any three keys in the sequence. Had to try several different sets of three keys for the 1-2-3-1-2-3-1-2-3 sequence, since I didn't know which key or keys were stuck. Flashing light then blinked diagnostic code as per “users manual/troubleshooting guide”. Diagnostics that came up were 2-1 (stuck key) and 10-1 (soap dispenser solenoid). Since key was stuck, ordered new control panel (keypad) rather than new circuit board. Installed new control panel and dishwasher is working just fine. I am not a repairman; anyone can do the fix by following the instructions. 

Took the panel off and discovered the corroded panel connector. Called AppliancePartsPros and they got me the right panel. They even took the time to look at pictures I sent to insure I had the right one. Then they shipped it quick and well packaged. They are awesome. Took 5 minutes to install and worked perfect. Just a suggestion if this happens to you, silicone the heck out of the area where the ribbon comes out of the panel and seal it good to prevent this. So far no other issues. 

Removed everything to get to the control panel, unplugged the old one and plugged in the new one. It works like a charm. Quick delivery on your part, and it only took my husband 20 to 30 minutes to install and put everything back together. Thank you for being there for us. 

Ordered the part for - 100 bucks - easy fix - should have ordered it sooner - 

Ordered replacement from Appliance pros. Perfect fit . Works great. 

I replaced the Panel Control. It was fairly easy to replace. 

Replaced the computer module and control panel. 

Replaced the parts and they fit perfectly. Dishwasher looks brand new. 

Installed a new panel control. It works like new!!!