Error F16 in a Bosch washing machine

Error F16, which is built into the self-diagnostic system of a Bosch washing machine, is one of the most obvious. Even without any explanation, the user quickly understands what caused it. However, to solve the problem, this knowledge is not enough. You need to know the nature of the malfunction that triggered the F16 code and, most importantly, understand how to fix it. We'll discuss this in this article.

Decoding and reasons for the code's appearance

If you see an error with the alphanumeric code F16 on the display or control panel of your Bosch washing machine, please know that The "home helper" had problems locking the hatch doorIn general, you'll understand this yourself when you close the door, start the washing program, and the machine immediately displays F16.

This error usually appears immediately after selecting a wash program. It's extremely rare for this code to appear midway through or at the end of a wash cycle.

If your Bosch washing machine has a display, there are no problems at all. You see the code, quickly decipher it, identify a list of possible faults that caused it, and begin searching for the specific problem. It's a completely different story if your machine doesn't have a display. This presents another obstacle. You first need to somehow recognize the error and only then perform the steps described above.

The image above shows the control panel of a Bosch washing machine without a display, which has returned the F16 error code. As you can see, the lights on the control panel are off, only the LED next to the number 1000 is blinking. In models with a slower spin cycle, the F16 error may be indicated by the light next to the number 800. What could cause the F16 code?

• The hatch locking device is not working or is de-energized.
• The hatch locking mechanism is faulty.
• Something is preventing the hatch from closing.
• The wiring is broken or the contacts between the door lock and the control module are burnt.
• The control module is faulty.

Perhaps the reason is in the UBL?

So, without further ado, let's begin checking the washing machine's door locking mechanism. Disconnect the power to the washing machine to avoid electric shock. Open the door as wide as possible. Inspect the door locking mechanism. It's quite possible that the door locking mechanism isn't the problem, but the locking mechanism itself, which consists of a special hook and spring. Check that the spring is intact and that the locking hook hasn't shifted.

If the door locking mechanism is working properly, it's time to check the door lock. To the left of the door, there's a small hole with two fasteners on either side; these need to be removed. After removing the screws, tilt the Bosch washing machine back slightly, then use your fingers to push back the door seal and insert your hand, feeling for the door lock. Now comes the crucial moment: you need to feel for the connector with the wires connected to the door lock and carefully disconnect it. If you've succeeded, you can safely remove the door lock.

If you can't disconnect the wiring from the door lock in this position, you'll have to remove the cuff or even the front wall of the Bosch machine and only then disconnect the door lock, which is unnecessary work.

Next, we test the door locking system with a multimeter. If the device is faulty, we purchase a new, original one and then install it in the old one's place, remembering to connect the power supply.

Control module and wiring

If the door lock is working properly, but the washing machine still displays the F16 code, you need to test the power wiring from the control module to the door lock. To do this, you'll need to gain relatively easy access to the door lock wiring, which can only be accomplished by removing the door rubber seal. How to remove a washing machine door seal, is described in some detail in the article of the same name, but we will not focus on this separately.

Once you've accessed the wiring, check it for breaks. While you're at it, you should also test and clean the contacts. If the problem still doesn't occur, the electronic module is likely to blame for the F16 error. Don't try to check or repair the control module yourself unless you have the necessary knowledge and qualifications. Entrust this task to a professional to avoid wasting money and time.

In conclusion, if a washing machine that has served you faithfully for many years suddenly displays an F16 error code, you should immediately begin troubleshooting the problem that caused it. This article explains how to do this and how to repair the washing machine. Happy repairing!

   

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