Miele Dishwasher Error Code F85: How to Fix It

Medium 45-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
F85
Brand
Miele
Product Type
dishwasher
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
45-60 minutes
Error code F85 on your Miele dishwasher indicates a diverter valve motor fault. This motor controls water flow between the upper and lower spray arms during wash cycles. When it fails, your dishwasher may not clean dishes properly or may stop mid-cycle.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code F85

  1. Turn off power and water supply

    Always disconnect power before working on electrical appliances to prevent shock or injury.
  2. Remove bottom dish rack and spray arm

  3. Access the sump area

  4. Locate the diverter valve motor

  5. Test the motor connections

    Ensure power is off before checking electrical connections.
  6. Remove the faulty motor

  7. Install the new motor

  8. Reassemble and test

Parts You May Need

Diverter valve motor
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Electrical connector
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Diverter valve motor
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Electrical connector
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Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
Diverter valve motor
Check Price on Amazon
Electrical connector
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Call a professional if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, if the dishwasher requires extensive disassembly to access the motor, or if the error persists after motor replacement. A technician may need to check the control board or wiring harness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Miele dishwasher error F85?
Error F85 is caused by a faulty diverter valve motor that controls water flow between spray arms. Common causes include motor burnout from age, electrical connection issues, or debris blocking the valve mechanism.
Can I still use my dishwasher with error F85?
No, you should not use the dishwasher with error F85. The faulty diverter valve motor prevents proper water circulation, resulting in poor cleaning performance and potential damage to other components.
How much does it cost to fix Miele error F85?
A replacement diverter valve motor typically costs $80-150. Professional repair service ranges from $200-350 including labor. DIY repair can save $100-200 in labor costs.
How long do Miele diverter valve motors last?
Miele diverter valve motors typically last 8-12 years with normal use. Hard water, frequent heavy loads, and lack of maintenance can reduce lifespan to 5-8 years.
Will error F85 come back after repair?
If the diverter valve motor is properly replaced, error F85 should not return. However, if the underlying cause was electrical issues or debris, the problem may recur without addressing the root cause.