Electronic Technical Report issued on: 10/25/2026
⚠️ SAFETY WARNING / ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL RISK. Before performing any operation described in this diagnosis, disconnect the dishwasher from the power supply by switching off the main circuit breaker. In case of disassembling the inner door panel, pay extreme attention to the mechanical risk linked to the sudden spring back of the hinge springs. This diagnosis is provided exclusively for educational and informational purposes.
1. Optical sensor lens or glass clouded by detergent or limescale (Probability: 52%) The Miele AutoDos system uses an infrared optoelectronic sensor to read markers on the bottom of the disk. If the reading window is clouded by condensed steam or soap micro-dust, the IR signal is attenuated and the board immediately registers the absence or non-recognition of the disk.
2. Mechanical blockage or buildup on the AutoDos gear motor (Probability: 28%) Rotation is driven by a DC servomotor with nylon gears. If detergent powder comes into contact with moisture, it crystallizes, creating a rigid mechanical bind on the gears. The mainboard monitors current draw: facing abnormal resistance (overcurrent), it stops the cycle for protection.
If you are experiencing issues with automatic soap systems on other appliances of the brand as well, you can consult our solution for Miele W1 WCR870: Detergent not dispensed problem.
3. Fault in the optical/sensor board circuit (Probability: 12%) The phototransistor or IR emitter diode degraded due to moisture ingress or voltage spikes, preventing the positioning signal from reaching the main ELP board.
4. Wiring breakdown at the hinge or firmware error (Probability: 8%) The wires connecting the dispenser board in the door to the power board in the base undergo continuous flexing. Micro-breaks or corrosion on connectors simulate a block or disconnection of the optical reader.
Always start with a deep cleaning of the optical sensor lens (most likely cause). If the issue persists, check the servomotor and, if necessary, replace the complete AutoDos module; finally, check wiring continuity in the door hinge.