Tried to start a load of dishes in my Kenmore dishwasher, and it won't run. No lights on the control panel. I have flipped the breaker, tried the heated wash/heated dry buttons.
Any ideas that don't involve replacing the unit would be greatly appreciated as I can't afford a new one.

You could have a blown fuse in the dishwasher. See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-bMqVb9kX0
Check YouTube and get a good digital multimeter at Home Depot so you will be able to test parts. You cannot guess on an electrical part (or any part).