Kenmore · Dishwasher
Kenmore Dishwasher F13 Error Code
Main control EEPROM error
What this error means
F13 means the main electronic control failed its EEPROM memory verification. Cycle programs cannot load reliably and the dishwasher may not start any cycle.
How F13 is detected
When F13 appears on a Kenmore dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Kenmore 665.13223K901, Kenmore 665.17789K801, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most F13 calls are resolved without parts: flip the breaker off for five minutes. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If F13 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Power surge corrupting control board memory
- Moisture on the board from a door gasket leak
- Loose main harness after door service
- Failed EEPROM on the electronic control assembly
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Flip the breaker off for five minutes
- 2Reseat all harness connectors on the main control inside the door
- 3Inspect for burn marks or swollen capacitors on the board
- 4Record model number before ordering a replacement control
When to call a technician
F13 displayed within seconds of power-on requires main control board replacement.
Affected models
- Kenmore 665.13223K901
- Kenmore 665.17789K801
- Kenmore 665.14703N510
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent F13 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when F13 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Kenmore dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for F13; Kenmore uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting F13; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.