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KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code 6-2

Reviewed by the ApplianceErrors Editorial Team · Verified against manufacturer service documentation · Last verified: June 10, 2026
High Severity 🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY

Stuck relay on control board

The most common cause of the 6-2 error on a KitchenAid dishwasher is relay failure on PCB (~65% of cases); start with: power cycle the dishwasher.

💰 DIY cost: $150–$350 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $250–$520 Save $100+ by doing it yourself
KitchenAid Dishwasher error code 6-2 on the display panel
How the 6-2 code appears on a KitchenAid dishwasher display

What Does Error Code 6-2 Mean on a KitchenAid Dishwasher?

Stuck relay on control board.

Fault code 6-2 means a relay on the main control board is stuck closed or open, so the board can no longer switch a load — heater, pump, or valve — on and off correctly. This is an internal board fault, usually from a voltage surge or moisture, and normally requires replacing the control board.

What Causes Error Code 6-2?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Relay failure on PCB 65% of cases
  2. 2
    Voltage surge damage 25% of cases
  3. 3
    Moisture on board 10% of cases

How to Fix KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Code 6-2

🔧🔧🔧 Advanced DIY Est. time: 1–3 hours
Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Power cycle the dishwasher

    Switch off the breaker for 15 minutes (most units are hardwired), then restore power — a stuck relay occasionally resets.

  2. 2

    Inspect for moisture or surge damage

    With power off, check the control board for water spotting, corrosion, or scorched relay contacts.

    ⚠️ Disconnect power before servicing.
  3. 3

    Replace the control board

    If 6-2 returns after a power cycle, the stuck relay can't be repaired and the control board needs replacement.

    🔩 KitchenAid dishwasher control board ($150–$350)
    ⚠️ Disconnect power before servicing.

How to Reset Error Code 6-2

Switch off the dishwasher's breaker for 15 minutes to fully de-energize the board, then restore power. If 6-2 returns, the stuck relay cannot be reset and the control board needs replacement.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

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When to Call a Professional

Because 6-2 is a hardware fault on the control board and most KitchenAid dishwashers are hardwired, replacing the board safely involves mains wiring — call a technician unless you're comfortable with that.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $250–$520

Same Code on Other Brands

Error code 6-2 appears on these other brands too.

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your KitchenAid Dishwasher:

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

More KitchenAid Dishwasher Error Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep using my KitchenAid Dishwasher when error 6-2 appears? +
It is not advisable. The dishwasher may still power on, but running it while 6-2 is active can worsen the control-board fault or damage related parts. Treat it as a soon-as-possible repair.
What most commonly causes 6-2 on a KitchenAid Dishwasher? +
Across reported KitchenAid dishwasher repairs, the most frequent is relay failure on PCB (65% of cases), voltage surge damage (25%), then moisture on board (10%). Check them in that order before replacing any parts.
6-2 keeps coming back after a reset — what should I check next? +
A reset only clears the stored 6-2 fault; if it returns, the control-board problem is still present. Move on to the physical checks — power cycle the dishwasher, then inspect for moisture or surge damage — since the code will reappear until the root cause is resolved. This is an advanced repair involving deeper disassembly or electrical testing.
How much does it cost to fix KitchenAid Dishwasher error 6-2? +
A DIY repair typically runs $150–$350 in parts, versus $250–$520 for a professional service call, so handling it yourself saves around $100. Expect the work to take 1–3 hours.

Sources & References

Content verified against manufacturer service documentation. Last verified: June 10, 2026.