Bosch washing machine errors: troubleshooting + recommendations for eliminating them

Bosch brand washing machines are considered one of the easiest to use.Convenience is expressed in the fact that the user, in most cases, can independently correct errors in the Bosch washing machine, having minimal knowledge.

The intelligent system reports faults by displaying them as codes on the display. Let's take a closer look at what they signal.

List of codes and troubleshooting methods

The devices are represented by such series as Maxx, Logixx, Classixx, Avantixx And Home Professional. The fault codes displayed on the sensor of a Bosch washing machine are, in most cases, the same in all series.

No. 1. Problems with the machine door

Due to the loading hatch not being closed tightly enough, a code appears F01. Immediately make sure that the door is slammed tightly, rearrange the laundry so that it does not interfere with the correct fixation of the hatch (you must clearly hear a click when closing).

The problem may also be a faulty hatch handle, door parts, guide part or locking element. If they break, they must be repaired or replaced.

To correct error F1, it is necessary to check the functioning of all parts of the hatch: fasteners, handle, corresponding lock mechanism and adjacent parts

Code F16 indicates that the wash cannot be started due to the hatch not being closed. In this case, you will need to slam the door and restart the program again.

If the error does not disappear, check the functionality of the door, locking tongue, locking element and, if necessary, update the damaged parts. Check the wiring.

Often problems are found in the door handle. It should be carefully disassembled using a screwdriver and repaired, replacing damaged elements

If the door lock does not slam shut, the screen flashes F34. This is one of the critical errors, so turn off the device immediately. There may be two root causes. The first is that the door does not close, and the second is that the door does not automatically lock.

In the first case, the door does not close or open again, or the hatch cannot physically close (something is in the way). This happens due to the door being skewed due to deformation, or the locking hook does not fit into the special hole, or when the plastic guide is worn out.

To identify the causes of the door malfunction (F34), it is necessary to disassemble it and carefully inspect it, also check the bolts, hinges and locking system

In the second situation, the problem is either a broken blocking element, or a clogged blocking device (debris or small objects have gotten in), or a broken control module (which happens very rarely).

You can fix it by turning off the device. Next, check the lock, hinges and the door itself, the locking system and its wiring. Then, if necessary, parts are repaired or replaced. The module is checked, and if it is burnt out, a replacement is needed, if the software has crashed, then it needs to be reflashed.

Critical error F36 indicates a malfunction of the locking system (broken lock). The reason may be an open hatch or a lack of locking.Restart the machine, check that the door is closed tightly, look at the wiring, hinges, lock and control module. Renew or repair parts.

One of the root causes of error F36 is a faulty blocking element. The part should be carefully inspected, then, if necessary, repaired or replaced

Code F61 indicates that the door has an incorrect signal (it is both open and closed at the same time). This error is critical, so press ON/OFF immediately.

The reason could be a module freeze. To resolve this, do not turn on the device for 30 minutes. At this time, call a technician or check the module, hatch lock (locking mechanism) and wiring yourself.

No. 2. Errors due to water supply problems

Code F02 appears on the display when there is no water. This error can be caused by:

• breakdown of the board, inlet valve or pressure switch;
• incorrect installation of the device;
• the tap supplying water is closed;
• lack of water or pressure in the water supply;
• filler filter clogged;
• does not close tightly enough or the hatch does not lock.

You can fix these problems yourself. First, reboot your controller. If this is the problem, then you should rewrite the software or replace the board; in this case, use the services of a specialist.

If not, then you need to check that the machine is connected correctly; the hose should not be pinched. Check the water pressure in the system and the handle of the tap that supplies it.

Clean the inlet filter (rinse the mesh of the hose intended for water supply under pressure). The filter itself is located at the connection point of the inlet hose, at the top of the machine.

Inspect the inlet valve, then the blocker and repair if it is faulty.Check the pressure switch (pressure sensor) and the wiring leading to the sensor for damage. Carry out the same actions with the door.

Code F03 is displayed if there are difficulties with draining the water and there may be several reasons for this error, namely:

• the garbage filter or sewer pipe is clogged;
• the drain hose is clogged or deformed;
• critical stretching or rupture of the drive belt;
• drain pump malfunction;
• problem with the module.

How to eliminate them? First, you should check the drain filter and clean it if necessary. If this does not help, inspect the drain hose for kinks or improper placement.

Reinstall it as needed or clean it with special chemicals. Check, correct or replace the drive belt, and do the same with the pump. It is better to entrust testing of the main board to a specialist.

To correct error F03, you need to clean the water drain filter; to do this, you need to remove it and rinse it under a stream of water. The filter is located at the bottom of the machine behind a small hatch

Code F04 indicates that water is leaking. You must quickly disconnect the device from the power supply to avoid electric shock. Then turn off the water and find the source of the leak (inspect the place where it started first), and also check the tightness of all connections.

There can be several reasons for this problem: a leak in the hose, the drain filter is not screwed tightly, problems with the dispenser, the rubber cuff has torn, the filler pipe in the tank of the device or the tank itself is damaged, the inlet valve pipe has failed, the drain pump is worn out.

A common cause of leaks is damage to the hose or a loose connection to the unit.If damaged, the hose must be replaced

To eliminate it you need to:

• inspect the hose, renew if damaged;
• screw the filter plug tighter;
• take out the washing powder bin, rinse, dry, and replace if damaged;
• if the seal is not too damaged, try to repair it; if they are worn out, replace them with new ones;
• in case of serious damage replace the cuff;
• If the tank malfunctions, it should be replaced.

Code F17 occurs if water does not flow. On some models this error may appear as E17.

Its occurrence can be triggered by:

• closed tee tap supplying water;
• water pressure less than 1 atmosphere;
• clogged filter or water supply hose;
• the electronic controller or intake valve does not function;
• The pressure switch stopped functioning.

Removing the error is simple: open the water supply tap, after which the cycle will end, and the pump will drain the water in a couple of minutes. Reboot the electronic board, and if it is the problem, replace the unit or reflash it.

Clear the strainer and any blockage in the hose if there is one. Check the voltage on the valve coil, as well as the pressure switch, sensor controller and its pipe, change parts if necessary.

When the machine does not draw water for some reason, you should check the inlet valve and water supply hose for damage.

When the water in the washing machine does not drain at the right time, the code flashes F18.

Signs and types of error:

• water may drain slowly due to a program failure, for the same reason the machine freezes before draining;
• irregular drainage (every other time);
• after rinsing there is no drain;
• The laundry is not spun.

This happens due to a clogged “garbage” filter, incorrect installation of the water drain hose (it could be bent), if the pump does not rotate or the controller malfunctions.

Error F18 will appear on the display if the Bosch washing machine has stopped draining water. First, carefully check the water drain hose, then see if the siphon to which the hose is connected is clogged

To solve the problem, reboot the washer. If it doesn’t help, then turn off the power, remove the filter and clean it from the blockage.

Then perform the following steps one by one:

• the hose must be straightened and installed correctly; check the blades (threads or debris could be wrapped around them);
• if the pump is faulty, then replace it;
• check the control unit;
• inspect the wiring connecting the module to other elements; to fix such problems, it is better to call a technician.

When the Aqua-Stop function is triggered, a code appears F23. You immediately need to disconnect the machine from the network, tighten the valve, drain the water, and check for leaks.

The simplest version of the AquaStop system is a pan with a float that shuts off the water supply if a leak is detected.

Also inspect the connecting circuits for breaks, the inlet hose and pipe, the hose with the solenoid valve, and the pressure switch. All of these components need to be replaced in case of breakdown.

If the turbidity sensor does not work (code F25), the program will end the wash without rinsing. The reason may lie in the formation of limescale on the water sensor, a faulty pressure switch, clogged filler or drain lines if dirty water comes in.

The fill and drain filters need to be cleaned. Replace the aqua filter (turbidity sensor) or descale it.To flush the system, run a wash without any laundry at the highest water temperature. Contact a plumber or install a flow filter yourself. Replace faulty parts.

When the code is displayed F29, this indicates that no water is flowing through the flow sensor. There may be several reasons: the machine is installed incorrectly, the hatch is poorly closed, there is no or weak pressure, the filter mesh is clogged, the fill valve or pressure switch is broken.

First, check the hatch, pressure and straighten the hoses. Then look at the filter, valve and pressure sensor. After eliminating the root cause, the draining process will begin after 5 minutes, then you can resume the interrupted cycle.

Code F 29 indicates problems with the flow sensor; in this situation, a comprehensive check of some machine parts is required

If the permissible amount of water is exceeded (fault code F31), the wash cycle will not complete until the water is drained. This is a critical error; if it occurs, you must immediately unplug the device from the outlet.

It occurs due to illiterate installation and connection of the device, due to a violation of the location of the hose. The pressure switch, water intake valve, pump or controller turn out to be faulty.

Error 31 often occurs due to improper operation of the pressure switch. To troubleshoot problems, you need to test the device and update it if it breaks

To fix it, normalize the position of the hoses, if necessary, install a special valve on the drain hose and turn on the drain mode. If this does not help, then reinstall the machine correctly or check and replace the faulty part.

No. 3. The heating process is disrupted

If there are problems with water heating, the code flashes F19. The reason may be low voltage or voltage fluctuations, scale formation, burnt out heating element, malfunction of the temperature sensor or board.

The heating element is the cause of several errors in the operation of Bosch machines. It must be carefully removed and cleaned or replaced with a new one.

To resolve this, reboot the device and normalize the voltage. If there are no changes, then it is necessary to check and update the thermostat, heating element and wiring to it. In some cases, cleaning the heating element from scale helps.

The diagram shows the location of the heating element in a Bosch car and what actions need to be taken to remove it painlessly

Code F20 informs the user that unplanned heating of water has occurred (the temperature is higher than the set one, things are shedding, the device is getting very hot).

The error can be caused by a program failure, a broken thermostat, or a failed heater relay (heater). Each element must be checked and replaced, having first disconnected the device from the network.

When the NTC sensor (thermistor) fails, the display lights up F22.

There may be several reasons:

• the connection to the water supply is broken - not enough water circulates in the system, so there is no heating;
• low voltage in the electrical network or its absence;
• breakdown of the controller, its wiring or electric heater;
• incorrectly selected washing program;
• failure of the level sensor or thermistor.

To resolve the problem, check the inlet hose and its location. Then - the electronic board; the element may need repair or replacement. Module wiring or electrical circuit may need to be repaired due to burnt contacts. Check the heating element and the functionality of the temperature sensor, update if they break.

Often, the failure of the machine to work and heat water is associated with a violation of the insulation of the internal wiring of sensors and system components. In this case, you will need to disassemble the unit and replace damaged wires.

Test the operation of the pressure switch and if it is broken, replace it. It makes sense to connect a stabilizer that will “save” you from power surges.

Code F37 means that problems with water heating are associated with a breakdown of the NTC sensor. In this case, the sensor itself or its wiring leading to the board could break.

Please note that there are different sensors: bimetallic, gas-filled, electronic. Each of them requires different repairs. Immediately rule out a system failure and check the thermistor, wiring, control board, then replace the necessary parts.

The location of the temperature sensor in a Bosch washing machine is shown and how it can be reached for replacement or inspection

A thermistor short circuit will be displayed as F38 on display. You should immediately turn off the machine from the network. The cause of the accident may be a breakdown of the thermistor, voltage surges, or a malfunction of the module. You should inspect the NTC sensor and check the voltage, first turning off the washing machine from the network.

No. 4. Problems with sensors

If the display shows F26, then the pressure sensor (pressostat) in the machine may be broken, which protects the device from voltage problems; it is also needed to measure the amount of water in the tank.

This is a critical error, you need to fix it like this:

• turn off the washing machine for 30 minutes. (ON/OFF button) to reboot it;
• check how the pressure switch functions;
• check that the connecting circuits are not broken.

If this sensor is not configured, it will display F27. In this case, you need to restart the machine, check the pressure switch, wiring, water pressure and inlet hose. If necessary, correct problems or replace broken parts.

When there is no water filling the tank, it flashes F28. This happens due to a faulty flow sensor. First, reboot your system. Then diagnose the flow sensor, fill valve, and also check the wiring for faults (debris has entered, no pressure). Update faulty parts.

If the flow sensor fails and it produces too high, or, conversely, low value, then you can see the code on the display F60. The cause may be low or high pressure in the water supply, problems with the fill valve, lack of water in the system, failure of the level sensor or circuit board, breakdown of the blocker or heater, or problems with the drain pump.

If the reason for the washing machine failure lies in a malfunction of the inlet hose and valve, they need to be replaced with new parts

Check that the wiring, flow sensor, and filter in the fill valve are functioning properly. If there is a problem with the plumbing, it can be easily solved on your own or by inviting a specialist. In other situations, it is necessary to check all specified parts and replace them.

Code F59 appears when the 3D sensor is not functioning and a measurement error occurs. The reason is a module error, the electronic board cable is coming off, the sensor is burnt out or faulty.

In such a situation, you must first reboot the device, then check the correct position of the magnet, wiring and 3D sensor of the device, module and troubleshoot.

The reason for the malfunction of the sensor system may be a failure in the connection to the washing machine’s control unit.You can fix it yourself

No. 5. Incorrect drum rotation

Unrealistic engine speed that cannot be controlled causes the code to appear. F42. The error is critical, so reboot the device using the Power button and check the module.

Also F42 may occur due to a damaged TACH sensor (controls the speed of the device), due to a breakdown of the engine, or a malfunction of the triac on the board. The problem can be corrected by replacing the speed sensor, repairing the engine and its wiring or a section of the electronic board.

If the motor is blocked and the drum does not rotate at all, then the code is visible F43. This critical error occurs due to laundry getting stuck between the drum and the tub.

To fix it, you need to:

• restart the machine;
• see if the laundry loading limit has been exceeded;
• check the serviceability of the TAKH generator;
• Verify that the module and wiring are functioning correctly.

This error requires immediate repair. Therefore, check the drum and internal parts of the device, and replace them if necessary.

If the problem is in the motor, then you cannot use the washing machine, as this can cause a short circuit and fire. If error F43 occurs, immediately unplug the machine to avoid an accident.

When there is no rotation only in the opposite direction, you can see F44. The error is critical, so you need to enable a restart, and then check the module and parts responsible for rotation.

A malfunction can be caused by a failed triac, an imbalance of the drum, an overloaded tank or a broken reverse relay. It is necessary, after testing first, to replace the triac on the board, relay or controller.

No. 6.Engine malfunctions

Behind the code F21 a motor breakdown is hidden, since the rotation of the drum depends on it. When you see this code, you must immediately stop washing, unplug the device, drain the water, remove the laundry, wipe the inside of the drum and call a technician.

The following may be to blame for this error:

• too large load of laundry;
• stretched or damaged drive belt;
• control board failure;
• breakdown of the TAKH sensor, worn out engine brushes;
• breakdown of the motor itself;
• an object stuck in the tank, blocking rotation;
• The bearings are worn out and leaking.

To resolve, check the drive belt for breaks - it may need to be corrected or updated.

The integrity of the drive belt is the key to the smooth operation of the washing machine engine. It should be checked for damage and tears.

Inspect the wiring and control unit, wires and contacts - sometimes the module may need to be replaced. If the machine operates on a commutator rather than a direct-drive motor, then its important part – the carbon brushes – could be damaged. They cannot be repaired and require replacement.

Carbon brushes are one of the key parts of the Bosch machine engine; if any faults are detected, replace them with new ones.

Next, test the motor, repair it or replace it with a new one if necessary, disassemble the washer body and remove the foreign object, renew the bearings.

If there are problems with the operation of the motor, a critical error occurs E02. Turn off the device immediately, otherwise there is a risk of fire in the wiring or motor and call a technician. He will check whether the graphite brushes of the engine, the motor, its resistance, connecting contacts, key modules, as well as engine modules, and the TAKH sensor are in good condition.

No. 7. Software malfunctions and system protection

Code F67 indicates a breakdown or overheating of the card (controller). Reboot the machine immediately. If the code appears again, then there may be an error or failure in the card encoding between the power and control modules.

It is necessary to call a specialist to replace it with a new working part or reprogram the module. Repairing the card is possible if the processor is fully functional.

Thanks to the control module, all the electronics of the washing machine work; sometimes it can freeze. Therefore, if any errors occur, first reboot the system by turning it off for 30 minutes

Code E67 visible if the washing machine module has failed. The error may be displayed due to unstable voltage, faulty wiring or network fluctuations, breakdown or burnout of key parts (capacitors, triggers, fuses) or erratic pressing of control panel buttons.

If the module overheats, to reboot it, unplug the machine from the outlet for 30 minutes. When the voltage stabilizes, the code should disappear. Those with technical skills will be able to independently repair the card and replace the board, reprogram the controller, otherwise call a specialist.

To repair the controller yourself, you need to have certain technical skills. If you are not confident in your abilities, then call a specialist

When the machine's functional protection is triggered, the display shows F63. The error may occur after a short circuit. The cause may be a software malfunction or a processor failure.

To fix it, you need to reset the program by turning ON/OFF, then see how the module works. Code F63 not displayed - everything is fine.Otherwise, you should call a specialist to conduct a full diagnosis and find out the cause of the problem.

Critical error F63 occurs if functional protection is triggered. If our advice does not help, you should call a specialist to diagnose the problem.

There may be several such reasons. Most often, the machine can knock out traffic jams or an automatic machine. This occurs due to a breakdown of the heating element, the “Start” button or the engine. The root cause of element failure lies in high humidity or oxidized contacts; they are the ones that knock out the plugs or the machine.

If the machine does not start and displays F40, this means that there was a failure in the power supply network. In simple words, the washing machine does not start.

This error may occur when:

• voltage below 190 W;
• if traffic jams or a machine breaks;
• RCD is triggered;
• the cord, plug, socket is broken or the interference filter is damaged.

The cause may also be a breakdown of the start button or board.

In such cases, you should consult an electrician to troubleshoot the problem, or check and replace the parts yourself.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

For experienced users, below are visual video consultations on how to deal with some malfunctions in a Bosch washing machine on your own.

The video shows how to reset error codes F 21-26 and enter the service test:

Visual correction of error F 17 in a Bosch machine with commentary on possible causes of malfunctions:

How to remove the heating element from a Bosch washing machine? The author demonstrates the entire process, commenting on it in detail:

In case of breakdown, do not get lost. You need to sensibly analyze the situation using our recommendations, and also study the instructions with tips.And having knowledge about all the malfunctions in Bosch machines, you can easily cope with them.

If you have personal experience troubleshooting a Bosch washing machine, please share it with our readers. Tell us what kind of breakdown you encountered and how you fixed it. Write your comments, ask questions - the contact block is located under the article.