KitchenAid · Dishwasher Moderate

F9E3 — Diverter Disc Missing

The diverter disc — the plastic disc at the pump outlet that directs wash water between the upper and lower spray arms — is missing or has come loose from the pump.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Easy

How to fix it

  1. Power off at the breaker.
  2. Remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly to access the pump outlet at the bottom of the tub.
  3. Inspect the pump outlet for the diverter disc and confirm it is present and correctly seated.
  4. If missing, check the sump/pump housing — it may have fallen out of place rather than off the unit entirely.
  5. Replace the diverter disc if it's missing or cracked.
  6. Reassemble, restore power, and run a cycle to confirm both spray arms are getting water.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Only one spray arm (upper or lower) is getting water, the other is weak or dry · Poor wash results confined to one rack · F9E3 displayed · Rattling noise from the pump area

  • Diverter disc dislodged from the pump outlet The disc has come off its retaining tab, often after a prior repair or from age.
  • Diverter disc cracked or broken A damaged disc can no longer seat and seal properly on the pump outlet.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • KitchenAid dishwasher diverter disc Common replacement
    Amazon →

Related repair guides

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More KitchenAid dishwasher codes

6-1 6-1 (F6E1) Error — User Interface / Main Control Error 7-1 7-1 Error — Heating Element Failure 8-1 8-1 (F8E1 / H2O) Error — Not Detecting Water F2E1 F2E1 — Stuck Key on Control Panel F3E1 F3E1 — Thermistor / OWI Sensor Failure F5E1 F5E1 — Door Switch Not Detected

All KitchenAid codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the F9E3 code mean on a KitchenAid dishwasher?

The diverter disc — the plastic disc at the pump outlet that directs wash water between the upper and lower spray arms — is missing or has come loose from the pump.

What causes the F9E3 code on a KitchenAid dishwasher?

Diverter disc dislodged from the pump outlet: The disc has come off its retaining tab, often after a prior repair or from age. Diverter disc cracked or broken: A damaged disc can no longer seat and seal properly on the pump outlet.

Is it safe to keep using a KitchenAid dishwasher with a F9E3 error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix F9E3 on a KitchenAid dishwasher?

Power off at the breaker. Remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly to access the pump outlet at the bottom of the tub. Inspect the pump outlet for the diverter disc and confirm it is present and correctly seated.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.