only certain buttons on the control panel activate. The start button does not work, some of the other button do work (light up)when pressed but obviously the dishwasher wont run if the start button doesnt work. ANy thoughts???
This could mean you have a worn control panel, or it could be a faulty door switch.
How hard it is to replace each one?
It’s just a matter of disconnecting the power to the machine, and removing a few screws to access the inside of the door. You may need some help holding the outer door while you’re replacing either of the parts mentioned above. If you think you may get the wiring messed up, take a photo of it with your digital camera or phone, for reference, before removing any of the wires.
Try the following. You did not include a model number so cannot see how the control panel is set up so am assuming you have a separate control panel (keypad) and a control board.
Usually a keypad uses a common line for 3 or 4 keys so this may be why only some keys work and others do not.
Connector Cleaning / Checking
Unplug the unit
Open it up
Remove the ribbon cable from the keypad to the control board at the control board.
Clean the edge connector.
If it is the type where there is not a connector just the insulation is removed, it can be cleaned with a pencil eraser. Do not use an ink eraser as it is too abrasive.
Check the tracks in the ribbon cable for hairline cracks. A magnifying glass helps here.
Would not hurt to clean the connector on the board. Use electronics contact cleaner or isopropyl alcohol and a tooth brush. Be gentle and do not reconnect till all the solvent evaporates.
Reconnect everything and give it a try.