Before checking the door springs, unplug the
dishwasher or shut off the power at the fuse
box or breaker
panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
The dishwasher door opens and closes
with the aid of springs. If the springs (or the cables that connect
them on some dishwashers) break or weaken, the door may drop open
hard and will feel heavier when closing. If the door drops open,
it may also bend the door hinges out of shape resulting in a door
that does not close properly and possibly resulting in leaks.
To access the door springs and cables
remove the lower panel located beneath the door. The panel is
usually held in place with two screws either above or below the
panel. It may be necessary to first open the door to the dishwasher
to get to the screws over the panel, then close the door to remove
the panel.
There are two common types of spring
assemblies. One type connects the springs from a hook on the dishwasher
cabinet or to a tang on the door hinge (as seen below).
Before checking the door springs, unplug the
dishwasher or shut off the power at the 
