When I push auto and start the lights go on and the time, but then it goes off. Why?

Hello. Is this unit less than 1 year old? If so, anything defective is covered under the warranty(parts and labor). After 1 year, certain parts are covered, however, no labor is covered. Make absolutely sure the door is closed properly--there is an internal door switch that must be closed(tells the main board it's okay to start the cycle) or nothing will happen and produce the exact symptom you describe. Next, the unit could be experiencing an error condition causing the shutdown. Make sure the water supply to the dishwasher is turned on(and always run the hot water in the sink before starting the dishwasher to ensure hot water gets to the unit). Next, do you hear the drain pump working? A lot of dishwashers turn on the drain pump immediately to remove any standing water in the pump before letting in fresh hot water. If the drain pump is jammed or clogged, you might hear a soft humming sound only(from the motor trying to spin) and then the dishwasher will shut down due to it detecting a malfunction. Check the float switch in the tub to make sure nothing has gotten underneath it(ex. a spoon or fork can become lodged underneath and the dishwasher thinks there is already water inside and won't fill) I hope this helps you!