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There are several things that can go wrong when your LG dishwasher door won’t close properly. It could be something simple—like hitting the edge of your kitchen cabinet—or a deeper issue, like a problem with the latch mechanism or door alignment. Hinges, cables, springs, and other parts can all affect how the door opens and closes. If one of these systems fails, it throws everything off. While it’s tempting to try and fix it yourself, sometimes the best course of action is calling a San Jose dishwasher repair technician who knows LG units inside and out.
There are a number of possible causes, and we’ll go through all of them one by one so you can figure out exactly what’s going on.
Reasons Why the LG Dishwasher Door Stopped Closing
Sometimes, the issue is just user error—like a rack not pushed in all the way or a large plate jammed sideways. But other times, it’s a bit more technical. If your LG dishwasher is brand new and the door doesn’t close at all, that’s often a sign of a factory defect. These are rare but covered under warranty, so always check first before taking anything apart.
If your dishwasher has been working for a while and just recently stopped closing right, it could be because:
- Dish trays aren’t placed correctly, preventing the door from sealing.
- The dishwasher isn’t level, which twists the door frame slightly.
- The rubber seal is deformed or worn, so it no longer sits flush.
- The latch or control lock is broken or unresponsive.
- Tension springs or cables have snapped, making the door heavy or uneven.
Using the dishwasher while it’s like this is a no-go. It can lead to leaks or even damage internal electronics.
The Door Has Stopped Closing: What Should I Do?
Your next move depends on what’s causing the problem.
If the issue is a matter of the dishes being stacked too high or in the wrong place, the fix is simple—move them around. Tall cutting boards or utensils that lean outward can press against the interior walls or top spray arms, keeping the door from sealing. Make sure everything is pushed back and sitting inside the racks properly.
Next, check how the racks slide. They should glide smoothly on their rails. If they’re jammed or tilted, remove them completely and then reinstall.
You should also verify that the dishwasher is level. Even a small angle can throw off the way the door fits. Use a standard level on the top and sides of the dishwasher frame. If you need to adjust it, twist the legs individually until everything is perfectly balanced.
Now, look at the rubber gasket that runs around the inner frame of the door. Over time, this can stretch, harden, or crack. A bad seal won’t just stop the door from closing—it might also cause leaks when the cycle runs. If the gasket is in bad shape, replace it. They’re usually easy to install.
If everything looks fine but the door still won’t latch, the issue might be the locking mechanism or a broken strike plate. Most LG dishwashers have a digital latch system that also acts as a safety switch. If it’s faulty, the dishwasher won’t even start. The latch can wear out over time and stop engaging properly.
Another possibility is a mechanical failure with the door’s support cables or springs. If the door suddenly feels heavier or drops too quickly, the internal springs might be broken. These balance the door’s weight and help it close gently. If one cable breaks, replace both—otherwise, the imbalance can come back quickly.
Also, don’t forget about the child lock feature. On many LG dishwashers, it prevents the door from closing fully. Hold the lock button down for a few seconds to turn it off and check again.
Final Thoughts
LG dishwashers are well-built, but like any appliance, they can have occasional hiccups. Most door issues are either mechanical or related to user setup. It’s worth troubleshooting basic things like leveling, rack position, and the gasket before diving into more complex fixes.
But when in doubt, it’s smart to have the issue checked by a certified repair technician. You can always reach out to Top Appliance Repair for expert help with LG models and other major brands.
And if you’re considering buying or selling a home with modern appliance upgrades, check out Tooyn Homes, where real estate professional Seda Stepanyan shares practical advice for home efficiency and long-term value.
