If a dishwasher door will not latch, turn the appliance off and pull both racks fully inside. Remove any pan handle, utensil, or dish protruding into the door path. Check for food around the seal and whether the door meets the tub evenly. Close once with normal pressure. Whirlpool and GE both identify rack interference and installation alignment as possible causes; a damaged latch is another. Do not slam the door or bypass its switch. Stop using the dishwasher if it will not seal, leaks, or repeatedly pops open.
Door hits a rack Likely cause: Rack not seated or dish protruding. Homeowner action: Reseat the rack and move the dish.
Door closes empty but not loaded Likely cause: Pan handle, utensil, or tall item. Homeowner action: Reload with clear door space.
One corner has a wider gap Likely cause: Out-of-square installation or hinge trouble. Homeowner action: Photograph the gap and arrange service.
Latch clicks then releases Likely cause: Latch, strike, or alignment fault. Homeowner action: Stop forcing the door; request diagnosis.
Door closes but cycle will not start Likely cause: Door switch, Control Lock, or cycle setting. Homeowner action: Check settings once, then call if it repeats.
Water appears at the front Likely cause: Poor seal, alignment, or wash spray issue. Homeowner action: Stop the cycle and contain the water.
DIY difficulty: Low for off-and-cool loading, rack, and seal checks. Time: 15-25 minutes. Tools: Soft cloth, flashlight, phone for photos, owner manual. Safety risk: Moderate because a poor seal can leak near electricity and damage flooring. Call a professional: Door springs open empty, has an uneven gap, leaks, or does not register closed after safe checks.