Miele Dishwasher G1040 - Continuous Intake
It is staying on its wash cycle (used up a cylinderful of hot water!), and the Start/Stop button has stopped working. (That is, when the power button is pressed, it goes straight into washing.) I have had the top panel off and the Start/Stop microswitch seems to operate okay. Now I am wondering if it is a failure in a timer or programming unit, or if it could be something to do with a sensor.
It is an old machine, second-hand, but has worked superbly until now. I would be grateful for any advice on how to pinpoint the fault.
The entire motherboard.looks easily replaceable so I wonder if they are available anywhere and not too costly.
1 Answer
It does sound more like the machine is not recognising a stage change or reset command, rather than a simple button fault. On an older Miele, that could be a control board issue, but there are a few worthwhile checks first.
1. Isolate it from the mains before removing panels or touching wiring. If you are not confident with live electrical testing, leave that to an engineer.
2. Check whether it is actually continuously filling, or just continuously circulating/heating. If it genuinely keeps taking in water, suspect the inlet valve sticking open or the water level/pressure sensing system not telling the control it has filled.
3. Inspect the pressure chamber, pressure switch and any small air tube connected to it. If these get greasy or blocked, the dishwasher can “lose track” of the water level and stay in the wrong part of the cycle.
4. Check the anti-flood base tray for water and the float switch underneath. On some machines, water in the base can confuse operation and cause odd behaviour.
5. Since the Start/Stop microswitch seems mechanically sound, check its electrical continuity and also inspect the wiring loom/connectors back to the control board. A bad connection can mimic a failed switch.
6. If all of the above are sound, then the timer/programming unit or main control board becomes more likely. On a machine of this age, used boards may turn up via appliance breakers or auction sites, but new genuine Miele electronics are often expensive.
If you can confirm whether it is overfilling, heating constantly, or simply never advancing, that would narrow it down a lot. For mains testing or control board diagnosis, I’d recommend a qualified appliance engineer.
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Safety first — read before actioning advice
Never work on a live appliance
Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.
Never attempt gas work
By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional — do not attempt it yourself.
Watch for sharp edges
Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts are full of sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.
Water appliances can leak
Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any hoses.
Know your limits
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