Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack MECH-ODOR Error Fix: Dishwasher Odor/Smell

Error code MECH-ODOR on the Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack means: Dishwasher Odor/Smell. The dishwasher has a bad smell, musty or rotten. Food debris is trapped in the filter, sump, spray arm holes, or door gasket folds. Remove and clean the filter assembly (twist to unlock at the bottom of the tub). Clean the spray arm nozzle holes with a toothpick. Wipe the door gasket seal with a damp cloth — food particles collect in the gasket folds. Run a wash cycle with a dishwasher cleaner (Affresh tablet or a cup of white vinegar on the top rack). Leave the door slightly ajar between uses to allow air circulation and prevent mildew.

The most successful fix is "Run Dishwasher Cleaner Cycle and Inspect Drain Sump" (medium difficulty, ~45 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $10-$20. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

This error is rated info severity. It is generally not urgent and can often be resolved with a simple DIY fix.

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Run Dishwasher Cleaner Cycle and Inspect Drain Sump") is rated medium difficulty and takes about 45 minutes. Tools needed: T20 Torx screwdriver, Flashlight, Small brush.

DIY cost: $10-$20. Professional repair typically costs $100-$160. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

The Whirlpool Whirlpool WDTA50SAKZ 47 dBA Top Control Dishwasher with 3rd Rack has 8 other known error codes, including: F1E1 (Stuck Relay on Control Board), F1E2 (Control Board Memory Error), F2E1 (Stuck Button on User Interface), F2E2 (User Interface Board Communication Error), F3E1 (Wash Thermistor/Sensor Fault), and 3 more.

Error code MECH-ODOR also appears on 4 other Whirlpool models: Whirlpool WDT750SAKZ 24 in. Top Control Dishwasher, Whirlpool WFW72HEDW Duet Front Load Washer, Whirlpool WFW9620HW 4.5 cu. ft. Smart Front Load Washer, Whirlpool WTW5000DW 4.3 cu. ft. Top Load Washer. The fix may vary by model, so check each model's specific page for tailored repair steps.