Kenmore Dishwasher Model 587 Parts and Identification

Quick Answer

To find your model number, open the door and check the right or left inside frame of the tub. The 587 prefix is critical because it confirms your Kenmore was actually manufactured by Frigidaire, which dictates which parts you need to order.

Here's the deal with the 587 prefix: if you order parts without knowing your dishwasher was actually built by Frigidaire, you'll probably end up with the wrong stuff. I've seen it happen a dozen times. The pump looks similar, the motor looks similar, but it's not the same. Getting the manufacturer right upfront saves you a return trip to the parts store and about a week of waiting on shipping.

KenmoreDishwasherSeverity: low

Time to Fix

5–10 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

$0 (no parts needed)

Tools Needed

Flashlight, Phone camera

Kenmore Dishwasher Model 587 Parts and Identification

The 587 series is basically one of the most common Kenmore dishwashers ever made, and there's a huge parts market for them. These are Frigidaire units underneath that Kenmore badge, and that matters a lot when you're tracking down a pump or a door latch. Honestly, knowing this one fact will save you from ordering the wrong part about half the time. Whether you've got a basic plastic tub or a fancier stainless model, the Frigidaire cross-reference is your best friend.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

FlashlightPhone cameraPencil (for rubbing faded sticker numbers)

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 587 mean on my Kenmore dishwasher?

So Kenmore's not actually a manufacturer. Sears contracted with real appliance makers to build stuff and just slapped the Kenmore badge on it. The 587 prefix is basically Sears saying this one came from Frigidaire. It's huge for repairs because you'll search for Frigidaire parts, not just Kenmore parts, and suddenly you've got way more options and usually cheaper prices. I've ordered Frigidaire OEM parts that cost half what the Kenmore-branded version would've been, same exact part, same part number. Knowing the source manufacturer is honestly the most useful thing you can know about your dishwasher.

Where is the model number on a Kenmore 587 dishwasher?

Usually on the inner tub frame. Open the door all the way and check both the left and right vertical edges near the top. If it's not there, look along the top edge of the door itself where the latch is. Some models have it tucked way back in the hinge area so bring a flashlight. On a few of the older 587 units I've worked on, the sticker was actually on the kickplate panel at the bottom front of the machine. That's a less common spot but worth checking if the door frame comes up completely empty.

Can I use Frigidaire parts in my Kenmore 587?

Yes, and honestly you should look there first. Frigidaire parts are easier to find and usually cheaper. The pump, motor, spray arms, door latch, heating element, control board, even the racks are interchangeable in most cases. But always cross-reference the full model number. I've seen two 587 models where the pump wasn't identical because one was a later production run with an updated design. Part number PS238770 covers the pump on a lot of these units but verify against your specific model before you hit order.

Why is the model number missing from the back of the machine?

Because nobody could read it if it was back there. Dishwashers get built into cabinets and that's pretty much where they stay for the next 15 years. Putting the tag on the back would mean pulling the whole unit out just to identify it. Installers would hate that, repair techs would hate that, homeowners would really hate that. So manufacturers put the sticker somewhere you can actually reach without tools. The tradeoff is it's sitting in a steamy environment so it degrades faster, but that's a better problem than having it completely inaccessible.

My model number starts with 587 but the rest is worn off. What do I do?

First try the pencil rubbing trick. Hold a pencil flat and lightly rub the lead over the sticker surface. It sometimes brings out embossed or faded numbers that look totally gone to the naked eye. If that doesn't work, check under the kickplate at the bottom front of the machine, there's sometimes a second tag there. Also dig through your home files for the original owner's manual or the EnergyGuide yellow sticker. If all else fails, a tech can often narrow down the production series by looking at the spray arm design and control panel layout.

Models Known to Experience MODEL-587-GUIDE Errors

This repair applies to most Kenmore dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

587.14002990, 587.15102800, 587.15112992, 587.15232900, 587.16142400, 587.14402400, 587.15263900

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on May 1, 2025