Yes you are exactly right on how to remove that front panel.
Remove kitchenaid dishwasher door panel.
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Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the slot.
Either unplug the power cord from beneath the kitchen sink.
The control panel will pull up and off and then you can grab the front panel and it also should pull up and off.
Look for the plastic fasteners on each side of the plastic panel beneath the kitchenaid dishwasher door.
This video provides step by step instructions for replacing the outer door panel on whirlpool dishwashers.
Plastic lower panel 1.
The most common reason for replacing the panel is.