Whirlpool Dishwasher Door Wont Close: Latch, Strike, and Alignment Fixes
Quick Answer
A Whirlpool dishwasher door that will not close is usually caused by one of three things: a dish or utensil in the bottom rack protruding past the door edge, a bent or misaligned door latch strike on the tub frame, or a broken door latch assembly. On WDT series models, the latch is a passive catch that the striker engages - the latch is on the door and the strike plate is on the tub.
A Whirlpool dishwasher door that will not close is usually caused by one of three things: a dish or utensil in the bottom rack protruding past the door edge, a bent or misaligned door latch strike on the tub frame, or a broken door latch assembly. On WDT series models, the latch is a passive catch that the striker engages - the latch is on the door and the strike plate is on the tub. Dishwashers that will not close at all will not start, so this must be resolved before any cycle can run.
What Does the DOOR-WONT-CLOSE Code Mean?
Door won't close on the WDT series: check the bottom rack for protruding items first. Then verify the strike plate on the tub frame is aligned. Replace the door latch assembly (W10130696) if the latch mechanism itself is broken.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Symptoms You May Notice
- Door will not latch even when pushed firmly
- Door closes partway but will not reach the click
- Dishwasher will not start because door is not latched
Can you reset a Whirlpool dishwasher to clear the DOOR-WONT-CLOSE code?
No reset needed for a door latch issue. After replacing the latch or correcting the strike, verify the door clicks firmly before running a cycle.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
Pull the bottom rack out and look from the front of the tub opening
Pull the bottom rack out and look from the front of the tub opening. Verify nothing is extending past the tub edge. Check the top of the rack as well - tall items can catch on the inner top edge of the door.
Open the door fully and look at the latch strike (a small metal
Replacement Parts
If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.
| Part Name | OEM Number | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Door Latch AssemblyW10130696 · $15–$28 | W10130696 | $15 – $28 |
Repair vs. Replace Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my Whirlpool dishwasher door stay closed mid-cycle?
Related Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Codes
Same Fix Works on These Brands
Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.
Models Known to Experience DOOR-WONT-CLOSE Errors
This repair applies to most Whirlpool dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:
WDT780SAEM, WDF550SAHZ, WDT730PAHZ, WDT750SAHZ, WDT970SAHZ, WDF518SAHM, WDT720PADE
Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026