The model number on a Kenmore dishwasher is usually stamped on a sticker inside the door frame or on the tub wall—Whirlpool-built models typically start with "665." Newer units? They tuck it on the left side of the tub when you open the door.
Quick Fix Summary
Most Kenmore dishwasher model numbers live on a sticker inside the door frame or on the tub interior; newer models (after 2020) often hide it on the left side of the tub. That sticker also lists the serial number, which kicks off with "665" for Whirlpool-built machines.
Sticker missing? Check the rear panel near the water inlet or the inside of the door. Pre-1995 models sometimes printed the number right on the door or tub wall. Write down the full model number—like 665.13792K500—for warranty claims or ordering parts. A flashlight helps spot stickers in tight, dim spots.
What’s Happening
Model numbers matter for warranty claims, replacement parts, and knowing exactly what your dishwasher can do—they’re different from serial numbers, which track when the machine was made. The model reveals the product line, capacity, and features.
Whirlpool-built Kenmore dishwashers made since 2020 start with "665," but LG or Bosch-built units use other prefixes. Can’t find the sticker? You might have a pre-1995 model—those often printed the number on the inner door or tub wall. Keeping this info handy cuts down on hassle when you’re troubleshooting or shopping for parts.
Step-by-Step Solution
Start by checking the door frame, tub interior, and rear panel for a sticker; if it’s nowhere in sight, pop off the lower front access panel and peek at the rear panel near the water inlet.
- Safety First: Unplug the dishwasher or flip the circuit breaker—no one wants a surprise shock while poking around.
- Open the Door: Swing it wide open and prop it against the counter so you’ve got room to work.
- Inspect the Door Frame: Run your fingers along the top, sides, and inner edges—grime loves to hide stickers in plain sight.
- Check the Tub Interior: Grab a flashlight and scan the tub walls, especially the left side. The sticker can blend right into stainless steel or plastic.
- Look Behind the Door: Fold the door inward a bit to peek at the hinge area or the back of the door panel—stickers love to tuck away there.
- Examine the Rear Panel: Still drawing a blank? Remove the lower front access panel with a screwdriver, tilt the dishwasher back slightly, and check the rear panel near the water inlet hose.
- Document the Number: Once you find it, jot down the full model and serial numbers—like 665.13792K500 and WA1234567—and stash them somewhere safe.
If This Didn’t Work
No sticker in sight? Use the serial number to guess the model or call Kenmore support—the second digit in the serial number often tells you the year it rolled off the line.
- Check the Owner’s Manual: Head to ManualsLib, plug in your model or serial number, and you’ll usually find diagrams showing where the sticker hides. No manual? Type your model into the search bar and the right docs should pop up.
- Decode the Serial Number: The digit right after the "W" in your serial number (for example, WA1234567) tells you the year—"1" is 2021, "2" is 2022, and so on. That narrows down which model you’ve got.
- Contact Kenmore Support: Dial 1-800-422-1234 or fire up the chat on Kenmore’s website. Hand over your serial number and they’ll pull up your model details and even email a diagram showing exactly where that sticker is hiding.
Prevention Tips
Keep the model number handy for life by photographing the sticker, sealing it, and labeling the unit—registering it online also keeps warranty and maintenance reminders flowing your way.
- Photograph the Label: Snap a clear picture of both the model and serial number stickers and save it to a cloud folder or an app like Evernote or Google Keep.
- Apply a Clear Seal: Slap a coat of clear nail polish or a laminate label over the sticker to protect it from moisture and wear.
- Label the Unit: Stick a waterproof tag with the model number on the side of the door or inside the cabinet—easy to spot during maintenance or repairs.
- Register Online: Visit kenmore.com/register and drop in your model number. You’ll get warranty updates, maintenance alerts, and special offers straight to your inbox.
Edited and fact-checked by the TechFactsHub editorial team.