Kenmore Dishwasher i40 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as I 40, i 40 on some models.
i40 on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher means the filter or sump is clogged with food soil - clean the glass trap and filter and run it again.
What this code means
On Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwashers, i40 is the clogged filter or sump code. Frigidaire's guide says it occurs when food soils have built up in the sump, and its fix is to clean out the glass trap and filter and re-run the unit, contacting service if the code persists.
Verify against the model number printed on the tub or door edge: this is the Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher family. Frigidaire's error-code guide lists i40 as a clogged filter or sump; a drain that won't clear is the separate i20 code.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Food soil built up in the glass trap, filter or sump | Very common | Yes - remove and rinse these components. |
| Filter not seated correctly after cleaning | Occasional | Yes - refit it firmly. |
| Blockage deeper in the sump or wash system | Less common | No - this belongs to a tech. |
What you can try yourself
- Turn OFF the dishwasher at the breaker or unplug it before reaching into the tub.
- Remove the bottom rack, then lift out and rinse the glass trap and filter.
- Wipe food soil out of the sump area beneath the filter and refit the filter and trap firmly.
- Restore power and run a short cycle; if i40 returns on a clean filter, contact service.
When to call a technician
- i40 returns straight after the glass trap, filter and sump have been cleaned.
- Water is pooling under or around the dishwasher - power off and call a technician.
Typical professional repair cost: $50-$300
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between i20 and i40?
i20 means the unit did not drain completely. i40 means the filter or sump is clogged with food soil. Cleaning the glass trap and filter is the first step for both.
Can I keep using my dishwasher with i40 showing?
Clean the glass trap and filter first. If i40 clears and stays away, carry on; if it comes back on a clean filter, stop and arrange service.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Kenmore codes
- Kenmore Dishwasher i20 i20 on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher means the unit can't drain - usually a low drain-hose loop or a clog in the trap.
- Kenmore Dishwasher PF PF on a Frigidaire-built Kenmore 587 dishwasher is the power-failure reminder - the cycle was interrupted when electricity dropped.
- Kenmore Dishwasher F8E4 F8E4 is the Whirlpool-built Kenmore 665 dishwasher's flood code - the float detected water in the bottom of the machine.
- Kenmore Washer PF PF means the washer lost power in the middle of a cycle — restart it and you're usually done.
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