Dishwasher Not Draining? Base Pump W11680073 – Fix Standing Water Fast
Standing water at the bottom of your dishwasher after every cycle is a clear sign the base pump has failed. In most Whirlpool-built dishwashers, this is caused by a failed base pump motor assembly. When it fails, water cannot be evacuated from the tub, dishes come out dirty, and error codes related to drainage appear on the control panel. ⚡ Common failure point in Whirlpool-built dishwashers including Maytag and KitchenAid models. Part W11680073 is the genuine OEM replacement that restores full water circulation and drainage, eliminating standing water and restoring normal wash performance.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ Dishwasher powers on and runs through cycles normally
- ✔ Wash arm and spray functions appear to operate
- ✔ Water supply and inlet valve confirmed OK
- ✔ ONLY problem is standing water / failure to drain after cycle
Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Standing water at the bottom of the tub after the cycle ends
- Dishwasher fails to drain completely or at all
- Unusual grinding or humming noise during the drain phase
- Dishes coming out dirty or with food residue
- Drainage error codes displayed on the control panel
- Water leaking from the base of the dishwasher
✔ If these symptoms match, this is the most likely failed component in the system.
✔ In most cases, replacing this base pump restores normal drainage and wash performance immediately.
📦 Part Details
- Part Number: W11680073
- Type: Dishwasher Base Pump / Drain Pump Motor Assembly
- Replaces: W11633255
- Brands: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana
While the dishwasher is apart, inspect the door gasket and door latch assembly — these commonly degrade alongside pump failures and are inexpensive to replace at the same time, saving a second service call.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: MODERATE — 45–75 minutes. Disconnect power and shut off the water supply before servicing. Remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly to access the pump housing at the base of the tub. Disconnect the drain hose and electrical connectors, unbolt the pump assembly, and reverse the process with the new unit. Ensure all hose clamps are tight and connections are secure before running a test cycle.
✓ Compatible Models
Confirmed compatible with MDB4949SKB2, MDB4949SKB3, MDB4949SKW2, MDB4949SKW3, MDB4949SKZ2, MDB4949SKZ3 plus additional Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid dishwasher models. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.
🔗 Model-Specific Repair Pages
⚠️ BIDIR hub links flagged for manual addition — handles not yet verified. Add links to model hub pages for MDB4949SKB2, MDB4949SKB3, MDB4949SKW2, MDB4949SKW3, MDB4949SKZ2, MDB4949SKZ3 once page handles are confirmed.
💡 Pro Tip
If your dishwasher is 5+ years old and the pump has failed, the drain hose is often brittle or cracked as well. Replacing both in one visit eliminates the most common cause of repeat drainage failures — and saves you the labour cost of a second disassembly.
✅Compatibility & Cross Reference
Not sure about your model number? Call 1-877-899-7278 and we’ll help you confirm. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used for compatibility reference only.
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