How to Replace a Dishwasher Rack

Deciding whether to replace or repair

A dishwasher rack takes more abuse than almost any other part of the machine. Heavy pots and pans press down on the tines, the coating scrapes against plates and cutlery, and the wheels roll over the tracks several times a day. Over years of use, the nylon coating can split, the wires can bend, and the wheels can crack or fall off.

Replacement is the right move when the frame is sound but the coating is peeling, the wheels are broken, or a few tines are bent. Use a rack coating repair kit for small chips, and see rack wheel replacement if only the wheels are worn. When the wires are rusted through, the welds are broken, or the rack no longer holds its shape, a replacement rack is the better fix.

A rack that stops sliding smoothly is often a wheel problem, not a rack problem. Inspect the wheels and the track before you order a full replacement. If the rack itself is warped or the frame has rusted to the point of flaking, replacement is justified. For a machine that is otherwise working well, a new rack can extend its useful life. If the dishwasher is old and has other problems, weigh the cost of the rack against the value of the unit, and see the repair versus replace decision for guidance.

If your rack is simply rusted or worn but still functional, see how to remove rust from dishwasher racks for a temporary fix.

Finding the right replacement rack

Dishwasher racks are not universal. Each manufacturer uses a different layout of tines, a different width and depth, and its own wheel design. The only reliable way to get a compatible part is to search by your dishwasher's model number, which is printed on a plate usually found on the inner side of the door or on the tub wall. Most manufacturers list replacement racks in their parts catalogs, and the rack part number is typically printed on the underside of the rack itself.

Before ordering, measure your rack. For built-in models, the interior width is usually around 23 inches, but compact 18-inch models have a smaller interior. The rack for a 18-inch dishwasher will not fit a standard 24-inch tub. The same principle applies to portable and countertop dishwashers, which have their own rack designs. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer with your model number and the dimensions of the old rack.

Check that the replacement comes with wheels, or that you can transfer the wheels from your old rack. Some racks are sold without the wheel assemblies. If your old wheels are still in good shape, you can move them to the new rack, but if they are worn, install new ones at the same time. See rack wheel replacement for how to swap them.

Also confirm that the new rack clears the spray arm. The upper rack sits above the middle spray arm in most built-in dishwashers. A different rack design could sit lower and interfere with the spray arm's rotation. Check the clearance when you install it.

Removing the old rack

Start by pulling the rack all the way out until it stops. In most dishwashers, the rack stops are built into the track: the wheels hit a raised bump or a clip at the end of the track. Lift the rack slightly to clear the stop, then pull it straight out. On some models you must press down on a small lever or lift a clip at the rear of the track to release the rack. If the rack will not come out, look for a stop mechanism before forcing it.

For the lower rack, remove any dishes first. Check for the spray arm beneath the rack, and if the rack is caught on it, tilt the rack to free it. The upper rack in a tall tub dishwasher may be heavier because it holds more, and some upper racks have a hose connection for a spray arm at the back; you do not need to disconnect it to remove the rack, but be careful not to pull on it.

Once the old rack is out, set it aside and inspect the tracks. Wipe off any debris or rust that may have accumulated. If the tracks are bent or the mounting brackets are loose, fix those before installing the new rack. A bent track will cause any rack to slide poorly, so confirm the track is straight and the wheels roll freely in it. See dishwasher rack won't slide for track and roller issues.

Installing the new rack

With the track clean and straight, slide the new rack onto the track. Align the rear wheels with the track opening and push the rack in until the wheels seat. Then push the rack fully into the dishwasher. Pull it out again to confirm that the wheels ride smoothly and the rack stops at the end of the track. If the rack does not slide in all the way, check for obstructions such as the spray arm, the wash tower (on models that have one), or the heating element at the bottom.

For the upper rack, make sure the rack is oriented correctly: the rack with the smaller tines and the cup shelf faces up and toward the door. If your upper rack has a folding tine row or a height adjustment, test those mechanisms after installation. See adjustable dishwasher racks for how to set the right height.

Run an empty cycle after installation to confirm that the rack does not interfere with the spray arms. Listen for scraping sounds and check under the racks for anything that could block the spray arm. If the rack is new and the model is recent, there should be no issue. If you hear scraping, stop the cycle and reposition the rack.

If the new rack has a different layout than the old one, take a few loads to adjust how you arrange dishes. The tine pattern may require a different loading routine. See how to load a dishwasher for best cleaning and the upper versus lower rack loading order for tips.

Preventing future rack damage

Most rack damage comes from sharp objects and from the coating wearing through. Load knives and other sharp utensils with the points facing down in the silverware basket, not against the rack tines. Avoid scraping pots against the tines when removing them. Small chips in the coating can be patched with a repair kit before they spread.

Check the wheels a couple of times a year. A seized wheel can wear a groove in the track and make the rack harder to slide. Clean the tracks and the wheels with a damp cloth. If a wheel is cracked or missing, replace it promptly.

Rust on the rack frame is a sign that the coating has failed. Treat rust early with the techniques described in the article on removing rust. If rust has eaten through the wire, that section will continue to lose strength, and replacement is the reliable fix.

If you are considering a new dishwasher rather than a replacement rack, see the best built-in dishwashers to compare rack designs, including stainless steel vs nylon coated racks.

What to do about your dishwasher rack

Questions

Can I replace just one rack without replacing the other?

Yes. The upper and lower racks are separate parts and are replaced independently. Order the specific rack that matches your model number and the position (upper or lower).

How do I find the part number for my dishwasher rack?

Look for the model number on the plate inside the door or on the tub wall. Then search the manufacturer's parts catalog using that model number. The rack itself also often has a part number printed on its underside.

Do I need to disconnect the dishwasher to replace the rack?

No. The rack is removed from inside the tub. You only need to open the door and pull out the old rack. No water or electrical disconnection is needed.

Why does my new rack not slide all the way in?

Check that the wheels are aligned with the track and that nothing is blocking the path, such as the lower spray arm, the wash tower, or the heating element. Also confirm that the rack is oriented correctly, with the front facing the door.

Can I use a rack from a different brand in my dishwasher?

No. Rack dimensions, wheel positions, and stop mechanisms are brand-specific and often model-specific. A rack from another brand will not fit. Always order the part designed for your model.

When is it better to replace the dishwasher instead of the rack?

If the dishwasher has other serious problems, such as a failing pump, a leaking tub, or corrosion inside the cabinet, the cost of a new rack may be better put toward a new machine. Compare the rack price with the age and condition of the unit.