Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To?

The most frequently replaced parts for KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To

Q: What does KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To mean?

Water pooling under the dishwasher, visible drips at the base during operation, or moisture around the diverter motor area mean the sump seal has failed. Replacing the sump assembly stops the leak.

Q: How do I fix KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement - Signs & How-To?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

KitchenAid Dishwasher Sump Assembly Replacement — What This Part Does

The sump assembly is the main water collection housing at the bottom of the dishwasher that routes water to the circulation pump, drain pump, and diverter motor. It seals against the tub base to keep water contained during wash cycles. The most common failure is the seal around the diverter motor shaft or the main sump housing seal. On most KitchenAid and Whirlpool-built models the diverter seal is not sold separately from the entire sump assembly, so a leaking shaft seal means replacing the whole housing.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Water pooling under the dishwasher You find standing water on the floor under the unit after cycles, and pulling the machine out shows moisture on the base or sump perimeter.
Visible drips or residue trails near the diverter motor Inspecting the underside reveals wet spots or dried mineral deposits around the diverter motor shaft or sump housing interface.
Leak occurs only during wash cycles, not while idle The leak starts when water is actively circulating, pointing to a failed seal at the sump interface or shaft under pressure.
Moisture around drain hose connection or base seam Water appears near the drain hose attachment to the sump or along the sump-to-tub sealing surface where the seal has worn or shifted.
Previous sump work or pump replacement didn’t stop the leak If you replaced the circulation or drain pump but water still leaks, the sump seal itself or the housing has failed.
Visible cracks or warping on the sump housing The plastic sump shows stress cracks or the sealing surface is no longer flat, preventing a good seal against the tub.

How to Replace It

Unplug the dishwasher completely and shut off the water supply at the valve under the sink or behind the unit.
Pull the dishwasher forward enough to access the base area and remove the lower access panel or kickplate.
Place towels under the sump area, then disconnect the drain hose clamp and pull the hose off the sump fitting.
Unplug all electrical connectors from the sump assembly, including the diverter motor, drain pump, circulation pump, and any sensors mounted to the sump.
Remove the drain pump and circulation pump from the sump housing (they may be mounted with clips, screws, or twist-lock tabs depending on model).
Release the sump retaining tabs or twist the entire sump assembly counterclockwise (or as directed for your model) to free it from the tub base, then lift it out.
Clean the tub sealing surface thoroughly with a wet cloth to remove any old seal material, debris, or mineral buildup.
Wet the new sump seal with water (do not use grease or soap), align all tabs carefully, and press the new sump assembly evenly into the tub base, rotating or locking tabs to seat the seal around the entire perimeter.
Reinstall the drain pump, circulation pump, sensors, and all wiring connectors, then reattach the drain hose and secure the clamp.
Run a short fill or wash cycle with the dishwasher pulled forward enough to watch the sump area for any new leaks before pushing the unit back into place.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Dishwasher sump assembly	Amazon \| WPW10455268 is a common KitchenAid/Whirlpool sump replacement (supersedes 8534882 and 8268382). Check the model and serial plate inside the door edge for your exact model number and cross-reference the part on the KitchenAid parts site or with an appliance parts supplier to confirm fitment.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

Call a pro if you’re not comfortable disconnecting multiple pumps, sensors, and wiring harnesses from the sump, or if the leak persists after replacement and could be coming from the tub itself or a cracked base pan. Sump replacement requires removing and reinstalling heavy pump assemblies and precisely seating the seal all the way around. If the new sump still leaks it may indicate a warped tub floor or damage to the base pan that needs professional assessment.