How to repair a Bosch washing machine
Bosch home appliances have earned the love of customers for their quality. German-made washing machines are admired, from the quality of the materials used to manufacture them to their ergonomics. However, even among these appliances, there are some that break down. That's why we decided to write an article about how to repair Bosch washing machines yourself, and whether it's even possible.
Troubleshooting
Modern Bosch washing machines are equipped with a special program that allows you to detect malfunctions without calling a technician. The operating instructions will likely explain how to properly perform this diagnostic. If not, we offer a detailed algorithm for testing the machine if the drum stops rotating:
- Close the drum hatch door of the machine.
- We set the program selection knob to the “Off” position.
- Wait 2-3 seconds.
- Now turn the handle to the spin mode.
- Wait until the “Start” button on the machine’s control panel starts flashing.
- Hold down the “Spin speed” button.
- We wait until the “Start” button flashes again.
- Turn the handle to the “Drain” mode.
Important! The handle must be turned clockwise. - Release the “Spin speed” button.
- By Bosch washing machine error codes We determine the last malfunction.
Please note: If the washing machine diagnostics fail to run at all, there is a fault with the system board.
In addition, the program provides for deleting the last error from memory and launching diagnostics of faulty elements. To start the engine test, set the mode selection knob to position 3. Setting the knob to position 4 will test the drain pump, and position 5 will test the heating element. Positions 6 and 7 are used to test the hot or cold water inlet valves. Position 8 will test the water inlet valve during the main wash, and position 9 will test the pre-wash.
The most common breakdowns
Bosch service center technicians have determined that of all the possible washing machine breakdowns, the following are the most common faults in Bosch machines:
- The water does not heat up during washing.
- The water does not drain.
- The drum does not rotate.
- Noise inside the drum.
- Water is not being collected.
- The engine won't start.
Based on this list, we can conclude that In washing machines of this company, the heating element most often burns out. If the heating element burns out but the electronic system remains intact, the repair will be quick and successful. Otherwise, you'll have to replace expensive electronic modules and take the appliance to a repair shop.
Causes of malfunctions
It's clear what malfunctions can occur in a washing machine. But what could be the cause of the breakdown needs to be clarified. Let's take a look at each step.
If the machine does not drain water after the wash cycle, the following may be the reasons:
- breakdown of the drain pump;
- clogged drain filter or pump;
- the contacts between the pump and the power supply are faulty;
- The water level sensor is out of order.
In case of drum stopping, the most important reasons are:
- drive belt wear;
- electronics or control board failure;
- It is very rare for the engine to break down in such cars.
Noise inside the drum can be caused by:
- faulty bearings;
- a small object stuck in the drum;
- breakdown of shock absorbers;
- torn off counterweight.
When the washing machine tank does not fill with water, the following reasons are identified:
- lack of running water;
- clogged pump or Aqua Stop system;
- the drain hose became kinked.
The motor of a Bosch washing machine may not start due to a breakdown of the electronics or an open drum door.Once you've determined the cause of the breakdown and its severity, you can begin repairing it yourself.
If the problem is still not identified, contact a specialist.
Repair of pump, drain filter and pressure switch
Now we'll detail the problems you can fix yourself and how to repair your machine. Let's start with the simplest: a clogged drain filter. It's located at the bottom, under the panel or cover. To flush out accumulated debris, open the cover by gently turning it counterclockwise. Don't forget to place a large cloth underneath to prevent any remaining water from spilling on the floor. Rinse the filter under running water and reinstall it. 
Cleaning or replacing the drain pump requires removing the front cover of the machine. This process is simple, but labor-intensive. This task is described in detail in the article on How to repair a washing machine pump.
You can troubleshoot a problem with the water not filling up yourself. First, check to see if the water supply is turned off and if the water inlet valve is open. Next, inspect the drain hose for kinks, and only then can you check the Aqua Stop filter. If it's faulty, replace it with a similar one.
If the water level sensor is broken, it needs to be replaced. The sensor is located under the top cover in the right corner. To remove the cover, simply unscrew the two screws at the back. The sensor itself is released by pressing the latch. Then, remove the hose and disconnect the contacts. A new water level sensor is installed in its place.
We are changing the heating element
How do you replace a heating element if it breaks? This type of malfunction can also be fixed yourself. Open the back cover of the washing machine and you'll see the heating element underneath the drum. To replace it, follow these steps:
- Unscrew the bolt holding the heating element to the tank.
- Disconnect all wires.
- We take out the heating element.
- We take a working heating element.
- We assemble everything in reverse order.
Replacing bearings and drive belt
Replacing the bearings in a Bosch washing machine is a more complex task. Accessing them requires almost complete disassembly of the washing machine. Furthermore, tools and skill are required. A detailed video has been made about this, showing all the work performed by experienced professionals.
One common cause of engine stalling can be a worn drive belt. You can replace it yourself with patience and skill. Here's how:
- open the back cover;
- We take a photo of the drive belt and its correct fastening on the pulley grooves to make it easier to put on the new belt;
- We take hold of the belt with our right hand slightly below the pulley and pull it towards us;
- with your left hand, slowly turn the pulley counterclockwise; with this movement, the belt will be easily removed from the pulley;
- we take it out of the machine body;
- Now we take a new belt and first put it on the engine;
- with our left hand we pull it, and with our right hand we try to put the belt on the pulley;
- continuing to tighten the belt, turn the pulley counterclockwise, while simultaneously trying to put the belt on completely;
- close the housing cover.
Eliminating noise in the drum
As we've already noted, drum noise and humming can be caused by worn bearings, shock absorbers, or a broken counterweight. Now that we've covered replacing bearings, let's look at how to troubleshoot other issues.
Before replacing the shock absorbers, carefully inspect the drum of the washing machine, shining a flashlight inside. There may be a foreign object lodged in it that can be removed without disassembling the machine body and tank. This object may be the one causing the rattling noise as the drum rotates.
As for the shock absorbers, they, like in many other washing machines, are replaced according to the same algorithm. There's a detailed article on this topic. How to replace springs, shock absorbers, and dampers.
If the noise is caused by a loose counterweight mount, tighten the mounts. The counterweights are located under the top cover of the housing and at the bottom.
If the counterweight fails to secure, it must be replaced with a similar one. This type of failure is quite rare.
What to do with electrics, electronics and the engine?
German electric motors for washing machines are a model of quality that break down very rarely, but it does happen.
There are two ways to solve the problem. The first involves removing the motor and sending it to specialists for overhaul and repair. They may be able to repair this expensive unit. If repair is impossible, then replacement will be necessary, which in some cases can cost almost one-third of the washing machine's cost.
Accessing the motor is easy. Simply remove the back panel of the machine and look underneath the tank. The motor and drive mechanism are located there. To remove it, disconnect the power wires and sensor, and unscrew the three fasteners that hold the motor in place. Before removing the engine, experts recommend checking the sensor capacitor for functionality. To do this, use a multimeter and connect its probes to the terminals. The display should read between 20 and 50 ohms.
A multimeter is also needed to check the washing machine's electrical system. If you suspect a wiring problem, methodically check all contacts, terminals, and plugs. Over the course of long-term use, a wire could, for example, fray and cause a problem. Check everything, don't be lazy, and you'll be rewarded.
If you suspect a faulty washing machine control unit, the only thing you can do is either call a specialist to come and fix the problem, or remove the control unit and take it to a service center. Experts strongly advise against tinkering with the electronics of German equipment: changing programs, reflashing, connecting to a computer, and testing. To do this, you need to know many nuances - entrust this work to professionals.
Why do cars from the German company Bosch start breaking down more often?
So what happened? Why are Bosch washing machines, once considered one of the most reliable brands, starting to break down more often? It's all because some production facilities were relocated from Germany to Turkey and Russia, where cheaper parts were used.
For example, the metal tank was replaced with a plastic one, and some components were purchased from China. This lower cost led to a decline in quality.
The German quality standard remains only in those washing machines that are assembled in Germany.
Therefore, when purchasing such a machine, you need to pay attention to where it was assembled. And if a breakdown occurs, specialists will be able to repair it without any problem. Even if it's only partially repaired, it's still a Bosch.
So, repairing a Bosch automatic washing machine yourself can be overwhelming, and in some cases, a specialist's help is essential. However, serious breakdowns in this type of equipment are quite rare, as Bosch washing machines are known for their high quality. And in each individual case of malfunction, a creative approach to repair is required.
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What to do if there is a knocking sound in the drum?
Change shock absorbers
When the BOSCH washing machine is running, there are strange sounds (shooting). Everything works, what could it be?
What should I do if my washing machine doesn't switch between modes and a strange noise appears during washing and draining?
When switching from wash to rinse mode, the middle indicator starts flashing. Is this a malfunction in the electronics?
What should I do if the hatch cover where the clothes are stored does not open and the drain does not work?
Hello! Could you tell me what to do? My washing machine won't go into rinse mode; it just keeps washing endlessly. The timer runs out, doesn't stop, and it won't turn off.
What should I do? The washing machine starts but doesn't start the rinse cycle? It keeps washing and won't turn off. I try a different cycle, like a separate rinse or spin cycle. They work…
What should I do if, whenever I turn on the wash or rinse cycle, the machine switches to spin mode and gets locked in this position?
What should I do if the door seal (cuff) rubs against the drum (before it warms up during the spin cycle)?
What should I do if the key light is flashing on the display? The temperature and spin speed won't set?
What should I do if the fastener to the drum on the back wall breaks off?
What should I do if the screen shows CL and the machine doesn't wash?
I was changing the bearings when I was removing the drum. A thin, flat metal clip about 15 centimeters long flew out of nowhere. I couldn't figure out where it came from. Please help!
How to remove drum springs?
Help, has anyone encountered this problem? My Bosch WLX 24463 OE washer doesn't blink after the wash cycle, the buzzer doesn't work, and the door won't open. The display always shows 1 minute.
The heating element burned out.
There was a power surge in the apartment and the washing machine started smoking. Could someone please tell me if the fuse is blown or not?
Good evening, the drum isn't spinning, it's filling and draining water, but it's not washing. What should I do? Thanks in advance.
The door won't open after the wash cycle. Could you tell me if this is a simple problem? The new cycle washes fine, but it still won't open.
It starts working on any function, but then suddenly shuts down. What could be wrong?
What should I do if Lenore remains in her compartment after washing the laundry?
What should I do if the door lock on my Bosch is jammed and I can't get the laundry out?
What level of insulation should a Bosch washing machine have between its electrical equipment and its casing? The casing carries up to 40 volts. Is it safe to work on this type of machine?
When I flush, water leaks onto the floor. I removed the pump and tested it directly—it's spinning. I checked for clogs, and everything's clean. What am I missing, and how can I be sure the pump is receiving the command?
My laundry isn't washing and there's detergent residue on it. What's the cause?