If your LG dishwasher is making a grinding noise and not starting, it can be alarming. The machine may fill with water, then suddenly stop, leaving you with standing water and a loud grinding sound when you try to restart it.
This issue often points to a mechanical blockage or pump problem, and the sooner you diagnose it, the easier it is to fix.
Quick Answer
A grinding noise in an LG dishwasher usually means something is stuck in the circulation pump or the pump is damaged.
Clearing the blockage or replacing the pump typically fixes the issue.
Step-by-step solution to fix LG dishwasher grinding noise
Step 1: Stop the dishwasher immediately
If you hear grinding:
- Turn off the dishwasher
- Disconnect power
Running it further can damage the pump.
Step 2: Check spray arms movement
Do a quick test:
- Open dishwasher
- Position spray arms in a known direction
- Start briefly, then stop
- Check if they moved
If they didn’t move:
- The circulation pump is not working properly
Step 3: Inspect for debris inside the pump
The most common cause is blockage.
Check for:
- Food particles
- Broken glass
- Small objects
These can get lodged in the circulation pump impeller, causing grinding.
Step 4: Drain the standing water
Since your dishwasher is full of water:
- Use drain mode (if possible)
- Or manually remove water using a cup or sponge
You need a dry interior to inspect properly.
Step 5: Access and check the circulation pump
Once accessible:
- Remove lower panels
- Locate the pump assembly
- Inspect the impeller
Look for:
- Obstructions
- Damage
- Loose parts
Step 6: Differentiate between drain pump and circulation pump
Important distinction:
- Drain pump → removes water
- Circulation pump → sprays water
Grinding during wash usually means:
- Circulation pump issue
Even if you replaced the drain pump, the problem may remain.
Step 7: Check diverter motor (if applicable)
Some models include a diverter motor.
- It redirects water flow
- If faulty, it can cause abnormal noises
Inspect if accessible.
Step 8: Replace the circulation pump if damaged
If you find:
- Broken impeller
- Worn motor
- Persistent grinding
Then:
- Replace the circulation pump assembly
This is often the final fix.
Extra tips and best practices
- Rinse dishes before loading
- Clean filters regularly
- Avoid placing small hard objects in dishwasher
- Run maintenance cycles
- Inspect pump area periodically
Common mistakes to avoid
- Replacing the wrong pump (drain vs circulation)
- Ignoring grinding noise and continuing use
- Not checking for debris first
- Skipping spray arm test
- Assuming it’s an electrical issue
FAQ
Why is my dishwasher making a grinding noise?
Usually due to debris stuck in the pump or a damaged impeller.
Why won’t my dishwasher continue the cycle?
Because the pump cannot operate properly, so the system stops.
Can I fix this without replacing parts?
Yes, if it’s just debris. Otherwise, pump replacement is needed.
Conclusion
If your LG dishwasher is making a grinding noise and not starting, the most likely cause is a blocked or damaged circulation pump. Start by checking for debris, then inspect the pump itself.
Fixing this early can save you from more expensive repairs later.
Reference Links
https://www.lg.com/support
https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Dishwasher
https://owner.electrolux.com/support-articles/article/1819543-dishwasher-not-drying
