Maytag Dishwasher MDB8959SBS0 Not cleaning dishes properly

The Dishwasher Food Chopper is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. It's designed to break down food particles that are washed off dishes during the cleaning cycle. This prevents large debris from clogging the dishwasher's drain and ensures that water remains clean throughout the cycle, enhancing the machine's cleaning efficiency. 

A malfunctioning or worn-out food chopper can lead to several problems, such as poor cleaning results due to food particles being redeposited on dishes, or even clogs that can strain the dishwasher's pump and filters. 

Symptoms of a bad Dishwasher Food Chopper include:

• Dishes coming out with food particles still on them
• The dishwasher making unusual noises indicating a struggle or blockage
• Water not draining properly, suggesting a possible clog

This OEM Whirlpool part can also be used on Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore/Sears brand appliances.

The Spinner Kit is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. The spinners are responsible for spraying water to effectively clean and rinse dishes. Over time, spinners may wear out or break, impacting performance. If your dishwasher isn't cleaning properly, inspect the spinners first

Causes of a bad Spinner Kit can include mineral buildup from hard water, which may block the water jets, or physical damage to the spinner arms that can occur from loading large or improperly placed dishes.

Symptoms of a failing Spinner Kit include:

• Dishes remaining dirty or spotted after a wash cycle
• Water not spraying adequately throughout the dishwasher
• Unusual noise during the wash cycle as the damaged spinner struggles to rotate
• Decreased water pressure affecting overall appliance performance

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Spray Arm Seal is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This seal is responsible for creating a watertight seal between the spray arm and the water supply tube, ensuring that water is directed through the spray arm without leaking.

Causes of a bad spray arm seal include wear and tear over time, exposure to high temperatures or harsh detergents, or physical damage from mishandling or debris.

Symptoms of a bad spray arm seal:

• Water leaks around the spray arm or in the dishwasher tub
• Reduced water pressure or inefficient spray coverage
• Excessive noise or rattling sounds from the spray arm during cycles
• Premature wear or damage to the spray arm components

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore dishwasher models.

The Check Valve is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This small but crucial component prevents backflow of water into the dishwasher, ensuring that dirty water is properly drained and does not contaminate clean dishes. It plays a vital role in maintaining the efficiency and hygiene of the dishwasher by directing water flow correctly during the wash and drain cycles.

Causes of a bad check valve can include blockages from food particles, mineral deposits from hard water, or wear and tear over time. These issues can impede the valve's function, leading to ineffective drainage and potential backflow problems.

Symptoms of a bad check valve include:

• Water not draining properly from the dishwasher
• Dirty water pooling at the bottom of the dishwasher
• Unpleasant odors from standing water
• Residue or food particles left on dishes after a wash cycle

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Spray Arm Bearing is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This supports the rotation of the spray arm, ensuring it can freely move and distribute water evenly throughout the dishwasher during a wash cycle.

Causes of damage to the spray arm bearing can include mineral buildup from hard water, wear and tear from regular use, or damage from debris that has become lodged in the spray arm. 

Symptoms of a bad Spray Arm Bearing include:

• The spray arm not rotating properly or getting stuck, which can lead to dishes not being cleaned effectively.
• Unusual noises coming from the dishwasher, such as grinding or squeaking, indicating that the spray arm is struggling to rotate.
• Poor water distribution inside the dishwasher, resulting in spots or food residue on dishes after a cycle.

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper and some Kenmore models.

The Circulation Motor is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. It is responsible for pumping water through the spray arms to ensure thorough cleaning of dishes during the wash cycle. This motor helps maintain consistent water pressure and flow, crucial for effective dishwashing performance.

Over time, the circulation motor can fail due to factors such as motor wear, electrical issues, or blockages that cause the motor to overheat or become damaged. Regular use and the buildup of debris or hard water deposits can also contribute to motor failure.

Symptoms of a bad circulation motor include:

• Poor cleaning results
• Unusual noises during the wash cycle
• Water not circulating properly
• Dishwasher not completing cycles

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Water Manifold Probe is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This probe monitors water levels during dishwasher cycles by sensing when the water valve opens and closes during different stages of cleaning and rinsing. It plays an integral role in ensuring the precise delivery of water at optimal temperatures and pressures. 

Symptoms of a bad water manifold probe include:

• Inability to sense proper water levels 
• Fault codes or error messages related to water levels
• Improper or failed dispenser of detergent
• Incomplete or inadequate wash and/or rinse cycles

Over time, probes can corrode, crack, or malfunction due to repetitive heating and cooling cycles. 

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Pump and Motor Assembly is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This part is responsible for circulating water during the wash cycle and draining water at the end of the cycle.  

Causes of a bad assembly can include blockages from debris, electrical failures, or wear and tear from regular use.  

Symptoms of a bad Pump and Motor Assembly include:

• Dishes remaining dirty after a wash cycle
• Water not draining properly from the dishwasher
• Unusual noises during operation
• Error codes related to water flow or pump performance

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper and some Kenmore models.

The Rubber Washer is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This washer plays a role in ensuring a leak-proof seal at various connection points within the dishwasher, such as at the water inlet valve or hose connections. Its primary function is to prevent water from leaking out of the dishwasher during operation, thereby ensuring efficient and safe use of the appliance. 

Over time, rubber washers can deteriorate due to the constant exposure to water and chemicals found in dishwasher detergents. 

Symptoms of a bad Rubber Washer in a dishwasher include:

• Visible signs of wear or damage to the washer, such as cracks, brittleness, or deformation.
• Water leaking from the dishwasher, particularly around areas where hoses and valves connect.
• A decrease in dishwasher performance due to water not being contained properly during cycles.

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper and some Kenmore models.

The Turbidity Sensor is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. It detects the level of particles in the water during the wash cycle, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the cycle duration and water usage for optimal cleaning performance. This sensor ensures that dishes are thoroughly cleaned by monitoring water clarity.

You should replace the turbidity sensor if it becomes faulty or damaged. Causes of a bad turbidity sensor can include regular wear and tear, exposure to hard water minerals, or electrical malfunctions. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to inefficient cleaning cycles and poor wash results.

Symptoms of a bad turbidity sensor include:

• Dishes not being cleaned properly
• Dishwasher running longer than usual or shorter cycles
• Error codes related to the sensor
• Inconsistent wash performance

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Filter Assembly is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This component is responsible for trapping food particles and debris, preventing them from recirculating during the wash cycle and ensuring that dishes come out clean. 

Causes of a bad filter assembly can include accumulated debris, regular wear from repeated use, or damage from harsh cleaning agents. A compromised filter can reduce the dishwasher’s cleaning performance and lead to buildup inside the machine.

Symptoms of a bad filter assembly include:

• Dishes not being cleaned properly
• Unusual noises during the wash cycle
• Slow drainage or standing water in the dishwasher
• Visible damage or clogging of the filter

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Middle spray arm is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dishwashers. Located inside the dishwasher tub, this middle spray arm helps deliver water to dishes on all levels for optimal cleaning. 

Causes of a bad middle spray arm can include clogged or blocked spray holes, damaged or missing spray vanes or jets, or mechanical issues preventing rotation. 

Symptoms of a bad middle spray arm include:

• Inadequate cleaning, especially of dishes in the middle rack 
• Dried or caked-on food residue 
• Unbalanced water spray distribution 

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models. 

The Lower Spray Arm Hub is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool built-in dishwashers. It is a central component that secures the rotating lower wash arm during the wash cycle. 

Causes of a bad lower spray arm hub involve general wear from years of repeated wash cycles. Mineral buildup accumulating inside may also deteriorate connecting surfaces over time.

Symptoms of a compromised hub include: 

• Loose, detached lower wash arm that does not rotate properly
• Mineral deposits or food debris caught in the hub impeding arm movement   
• Excessive noise, clanking sounds, or vibrations emanating from the lower basket
• Poor lower rack cleaning leaving residual food soils after wash cycles

Compatible brands also include KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, and some Kenmore built-in dishwasher models. 

Note: Also Order Spray Arm Seal: WP8268340

The Heating Element is an OEM part for Whirlpool dishwashers. This element is for heating the water to the required temperature and for the drying cycle, allowing your dishes come out clean and dry. It's positioned at the bottom of the dishwasher tub, where it heats the water and aids in the drying process by evaporating moisture from the dishes.

Causes of a bad heating element include mineral buildup from hard water, which can insulate the element and reduce its efficiency, or electrical issues such as a burnt-out coil.

Symptoms of a bad heating element:

• Dishes not being cleaned properly due to the water not reaching the optimal temperature.
• The dishwasher not drying dishes effectively
• The dishwasher taking longer to complete cycles

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper and some Kenmore models.

The Water Supply Tube is an OEM part for Whirlpool refrigerators. It channels water from the household supply line to various components within the refrigerator, such as the ice maker and water dispenser. It delivers water from the water tube manifold to the middle spray arm of the dishwasher.

You should replace this water supply tube if it becomes damaged or worn out. Common causes of a bad water supply tube include wear and tear over time, blockages from mineral deposits, or physical damage from kinks or accidental impacts.

Symptoms of a bad water supply tube include:

• Leaks or drips from the tube
•  Reduced or no water flow to the ice maker or water dispenser
• Visible cracks or damage to the tube
• Air bubbles in the water line

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.