How to Replace W10537869 Dishwasher Diverter Motor on Whirlpool KitchenAid — Step-by-Step

You run your Whirlpool dishwasher through a full cycle, only to open the door and find crusty food still stuck to your plates. Or worse, you notice a puddle forming under the unit. When your dishwasher isn't cleaning properly or starts leaking, the diverter motor — part W10537869 — might be the culprit. This motor controls water flow between the upper and lower spray arms, and when it fails, water distribution gets knocked off balance.

What You Need Before Starting

This repair takes about 45-60 minutes and requires moderate DIY skills. You'll be working inside the dishwasher base, so you'll need room to maneuver. Here's what to gather:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Towels (for water cleanup)
• Work gloves
• Needle-nose pliers
• Shallow pan or bowl

Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 45-60 minutes

Safety First

Before you touch anything, unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet or flip the circuit breaker. Turn off the water supply valve under your sink — it's usually a small valve on the hot water line. Standing water will drain out when you remove components, so keep those towels handy. Work gloves protect your hands from sharp edges inside the dishwasher base.

Step 1: Access the Dishwasher Base

Remove the bottom dish rack completely. Unscrew the lower spray arm by turning it counterclockwise — it should twist off easily. Take out the filter assembly next. Now you can see the sump area. Remove the screws securing the lower access panel inside the tub. Some models like the WDTA50SAHZ0 have four screws, while others like the KDTE204DSS0 might have six. Lift the panel out carefully.

Step 2: Locate and Disconnect the Old Diverter Motor

The diverter motor sits in the base assembly, connected to the sump. You'll see a wire harness plugged into it — press the release tab and disconnect it. Use your needle-nose pliers if the connector is tight. Place your shallow pan underneath because residual water will drip out. Remove the mounting screws holding the motor in place. On models like the WDT780SAEM2 and WDF520PADM7, there are typically two or three screws securing the motor bracket.

Step 3: Remove the Failed Motor

Gently twist and pull the motor assembly away from the sump housing. Some resistance is normal — the seal creates a tight fit. If it's stuck, carefully work a flathead screwdriver around the edge to break the seal. Don't force it or you'll crack the housing. Once free, check the old motor for obvious damage like cracks or burnt connectors. Clean any debris or old gasket material from the mounting surface with a damp cloth.

Step 4: Install the New W10537869 Motor

Your new motor should come with a gasket or seal. Position it on the motor first, then align the motor assembly with the mounting holes on the sump. Push firmly to seat it — you want that gasket compressed for a watertight seal. Thread in the mounting screws and tighten them evenly in a cross pattern. Don't overtighten or you'll strip the plastic housing. Reconnect the wire harness until you hear it click into place.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Replace the lower access panel and secure all screws. Reinstall the filter assembly, making sure it locks into place properly. Thread the spray arm back on clockwise until snug. Slide the bottom rack back in. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks around the sump area — let water flow for a minute before plugging the unit back in. Run a short rinse cycle and watch for leaks. Listen for the diverter motor — you should hear it switching between cycles with a soft mechanical hum.

Testing After Installation

Run a full wash cycle with dirty dishes to verify proper operation. Check that both upper and lower spray arms are getting adequate water pressure. Open the door mid-cycle (after it's safe to do so) and confirm both arms are spinning. No more pooling water under the unit means your seal is good. Dishes coming out clean on the top and bottom rack confirms the diverter is switching water flow correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this W10537869 motor fit my KitchenAid KUDS35FXSSA?

Yes, this motor is compatible with numerous Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Kenmore, and Jenn-Air models including the KUDS35FXSSA. It replaces part numbers AP5650272, W10476222, W10849439, and 2684962. Always verify your model number on the door jamb sticker before ordering.

Why is my dishwasher still leaking after replacing the diverter motor?

If you're still seeing leaks, the gasket might not be seated properly or you may have another failing component. Check that all mounting screws are tight and the seal isn't pinched or twisted. Also inspect the sump housing for cracks. Sometimes the door seal or inlet valve causes leaks that get blamed on the diverter motor.

How do I know if the diverter motor has failed versus another part?

A failing diverter motor usually causes uneven cleaning — the top rack gets clean but the bottom doesn't, or vice versa. You might hear grinding or humming but no water flow switching. Leaking combined with poor cleaning is a telltale sign. If only the bottom rack cleans well, the diverter isn't directing water upward properly, pointing directly to motor failure.