How to Replace a Dishwasher Door Spring

Symptoms and causes

The door spring balances the weight of the dishwasher door as it opens and closes. When the spring weakens, stretches, or snaps, the door no longer holds its position. A common sign is a door that slams shut on its own, or one that falls open when you release it partway.

A failing spring can also cause a gap between the door and the tub, which may lead to leaks. If the door will not stay closed, check the latch first, because a worn latch can mimic a spring problem. See our guide on a door that will not latch for related symptoms.

Ignoring a weak spring can lead to more damage. A door that slams shut can stress the latch and the door gasket, and a door that stays open in the middle of a cycle can trigger a leak. Replacing the spring early is usually a simple job.

• Door drops open when released
• Door slams shut with force
• A visible gap between the door and tub
• A metallic snap or twang from the hinge area

Tools and preparation

Disconnect the dishwasher from power at the circuit breaker before you begin. If you need to slide the unit forward to reach the spring, shut off the water supply and disconnect the drain line and supply line. Use a towel to catch any water left in the lines.

You will usually need a screwdriver, pliers, and sometimes locking pliers to hold the spring while you release tension. Wear safety glasses and work gloves because the spring is under tension and can slip. On most built-in dishwashers the springs sit near the lower hinge on each side. Some drawer dishwashers use a different hinge and spring design, so check the owner's manual for the correct access method.

Dishwasher door springs come as a tension coil spring that stretches along the side of the tub, or as a torsion spring that wraps around a rod near the hinge. Each type has a specific removal and installation method, so identify yours before ordering a replacement. The door hinge types guide explains the different hinge and spring arrangements.

Removing the old spring

Open the door partway and support it with a towel or ask a helper to hold it. Relieve the tension on the spring by prying it off its anchor hook with a screwdriver, or by carefully pushing the door farther open to shorten the spring's reach. Once the spring is free, pull it from the hinge hook and set it aside.

Inspect the hinge bracket and the mounting points for cracks or wear. If the bracket is damaged, you may need to replace the hinge, which is covered in our door hinge adjustment guide. Before installing the new spring, clean the hinge area and check that the anchor point is not bent. A bent anchor can change the spring's effective length and throw off the door balance.

Installing the new spring

Hook the new spring onto the hinge hook first, then attach the other end to the anchor point on the tub or chassis. Use pliers to stretch the spring into place, and make sure both hooks seat fully in their grooves. Avoid overextending the spring, because this can reduce its tension.

When you order a replacement, use the model number from the nameplate on the tub or door. The spring diameter, hook opening size, and overall length must match the original to provide the correct tension. On some brands, the hooks are enclosed in a plastic housing that stays attached to the spring, so the entire cassette must be replaced together.

Let the door close slowly and watch for any binding or rubbing between the spring and adjacent parts. If the spring is too short or too long, order the correct part for your make and model. For a model with a simple, serviceable hinge design, see our built-in dishwashers guide.

Testing the door balance

A balanced door should stay at the position where you release it, or close gently when you nudge it. Open and close the door several times to confirm smooth movement across the full range. If the door still falls open or slams shut, you may need to adjust the door closure mechanism, which is covered in our door closure adjustment guide.

Also test the door from both a fully open and a fully closed position. A common mistake is to install a spring with too much tension, which makes the door hard to open, or too little tension, which lets it drift. Small adjustments to the anchor hole position may be available on some models.

Check the leveling legs as well, because an unlevel dishwasher can change how the door sits. See our guide on leveling for door alignment for the complete adjustment procedure.

When to replace the dishwasher instead

If the spring is part of a sealed hinge cassette, or if you are not comfortable working under tension, a service technician can do the replacement safely. Some dishwashers use a tension spring that sits inside the hinge assembly, which can be harder to access. Check the owner's manual or the brand's support page for guidance.

If the door still does not operate smoothly after the new spring installs, the problem may not be the spring. A misaligned hinge, a damaged latch, or a worn gasket can produce similar symptoms. For a persistent issue, see the guides on lubricating door hinges and door latch alignment.

If you decide to buy a new dishwasher, look for an ENERGY STAR certified model, which is designed to use less water and energy than hand washing dishes. See our energy star built-in dishwashers guide for recommendations.

What to pick for your use

Questions

How do I know if my dishwasher door spring is broken?

The most common sign is a door that will not stay where you leave it. It may fall open on its own, slam shut, or resist opening. You may also hear a metallic twang from the hinge area.

Can I replace just one door spring?

Yes, you can usually replace a single spring. If the other spring shows signs of wear, though, replacing both at the same time can save you from doing the job twice.

Where is the dishwasher door spring located?

On most built-in dishwashers the springs are mounted near the lower hinge on each side of the door. Some drawer dishwashers use a different hinge and spring arrangement, so check the owner's manual.

Do countertop dishwashers have door springs?

Countertop models often use a simpler hinge with a spring or a friction mechanism. The replacement procedure is similar, but the spring may be smaller and harder to access. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.