Error F61 in a Bosch washing machine

Bosch washing machines are on par with other modern models, also offering a self-diagnostic system. It displays a specific code on the machine's display, allowing you to immediately pinpoint the problem and resolve it quickly. Error code F61 often appears in Bosch washing machines, and before taking action, it's important to decipher the "message." What does this code mean, and how can you repair the machine?

The meaning of the cipher and verification

When the washing machine displays F61, it means the self-diagnosis process detected a problem with the door. Simply put, the control module can't close the door or ensure it's locked, preventing the wash cycle from starting. It may be due to the user's simple inattention, such as when the door is not closed tightly or when something from the drum gets caught between it and the body. The machine needs to be locked again.

But before checking the door, it's worth ruling out a possible system glitch. To do this, reset the machine: unplug it, wait 15-30 minutes, plug it back in, and press the "Start" button. If the error disappears and doesn't return, there's no real problem.

Error F61 indicates problems with the hatch door.

Otherwise, you'll have to troubleshoot the problem. This will require partially disassembling the washing machine and inspecting the following door components:

• UBL (hatch locking device, which requires replacement if damaged);
• the wiring connected to the UBL (the contacts have probably become loose, and the locking signal is not transmitted to the control board);
• control board (often the resistor or triac responsible for the UBL burns out, which is why the module needs repair or replacement).

Even an average washing machine user can handle the door locking system with a screwdriver and pliers. However, you'll need to proceed with extreme caution and strictly follow the instructions below. If the F61 error is caused by the control module, we strongly recommend calling a professional repairman—flash programming and board replacement will require specialized knowledge and equipment.

Diagnostics and troubleshooting methods

You can determine the extent of the problem yourself. Simply check all the "weak spots" of your Bosch washing machine.

• The door won't close. More precisely, the door won't stay closed. This happens when the plastic guide responsible for securing the lock breaks. To fix this, you'll need to disassemble the locking mechanism, remove the latch, and inspect the condition of the plastic guide. If it's damaged, replace it with a new one and be more careful when closing the machine in the future.

Error F61 is caused by careless handling of the hatch door: hanging heavy clothes on it, slamming it hard, subjecting it to mechanical impacts, or using it as a child's swing.

• Sagging door. It's also impossible to close the hatch completely if the locking tongue can't engage the groove for subsequent locking. This can be caused by either sagging hinges or a rod that has fallen out of its seat. To return the rod to its place and tighten the hinges, you'll have to partially disassemble the door.
• The door lock isn't working. Often, the door closes, but the machine doesn't start washing and displays error code F61. This means that only the door closes mechanically, but something is interfering with the electronic lock. This situation is more complex, so you'll need to check the wiring and the control board.
• Broken handle. Due to prolonged use or rough handling, the handle breaks. Trying to repair it, fix it with tape or glue, is useless – only a full replacement is required.

In any case, you'll have to disassemble the door and look for the damaged part. To do this, unscrew the hinges with a screwdriver, lower the hatch to the floor, and unscrew all the fasteners on the body. Then, pry up the plastic shell, remove the top "cover," and take out the glass. The next steps depend on the cause of the problem. For example, to replace the handle, you need to pull out the metal rod and replace it with a new latch.

Removing the pop-up code

When repairing Bosch washing machines, it is necessary not only to fix the malfunction, but also to reset the F61 error. If you do not reboot the machine according to certain rules, the system will remember what happened and will not respond to further user commands.. Therefore, we proceed as follows:

On Bosch washing machines, after repairs, it is necessary to reset the error.

• turn on the machine and wait until the self-diagnostic system displays an error on the display;
• move the gear selector to “Off”;
• select the "Spin" program;
• press and hold the “Drum speed” key;
• without forgetting about the pressed button, switch to “Drain”;
• We time it for three seconds, then turn on the “Super fast 15” mode;
• wait 2 seconds and turn the selector counterclockwise to the “Off” position.

After completing these steps, wait a couple of minutes and then start any washing program. If the system starts the cycle without F61 on the display, the problem has been successfully resolved and the error has been reset. Otherwise, you'll need to repeat the procedure again.

   

Readers' comments