How to Troubleshoot Common Bosch Washing Machine Problems

Help & Advice > How to Troubleshoot Common Bosch Washing Machine Problems

If you have a Bosch washer in your home, you’ll know that these washing machines are known for their reliability, efficiency and advanced technology. But, like any household appliance, they are prone to common issues over time, especially with regular use and wear and tear.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through troubleshooting some of the most common problems Bosch washing machine owners encounter. We also provide practical solutions to keep your appliance running smoothly. Ready to begin? Let’s start.

Understanding Your Bosch Washing Machine

Before you book your professional Bosch washer repair service, it’s important to get a deeper understanding of your washing machine.

From loud noise during operation to excess water leaking from your washer, you first need to be able to diagnose the problem before taking any steps to repair it.

For this reason, we recommend doing two key things beforehand. The first is to identify the problem and the second is to look at your washer’s user manual for any troubleshooting tips.

Importance of the Bosch user manual

Going through your user manual helps you identify simple problems and also enables you to use your machine properly and optimally. It also provides troubleshooting tips for common issues. Some of these are covered in more detail below.

Common signs your Bosch washing machine needs attention

The following list of errors or faults from your washer can be commonly encountered. However, they also have relatively simple solutions, if you know where to look. On the other hand, certain aspects may require the help of a qualified technician, such as a faulty motor or an  electrical fault.

• Error codes appearing on the display
• Unusual noises or vibrations
• Clothes coming out unwashed or too wet after a wash cycle
• Water leaking from the machine

Common Bosch Washing Machine Problems and Solutions

Wondering how you can troubleshoot your Bosch washer’s problems yourself? Here are several frequently encountered issues and easy DIY solutions you can do on your own.

Problem 1: Washing machine not starting

Possible causes and solutions:

• Power supply issues: Ensure the washing machine is securely plugged in and the socket is working by testing it with another appliance.

• The door is not properly closed: Bosch machines have a safety mechanism that prevents them from starting if the door isn’t closed properly. Listen for a click when closing the door.

• Child lock is activated: If the child lock icon or “CL” appears on the display, it’s there for safety reasons. Hold the start/pause button for several seconds to deactivate the lock.

• Faulty control module: Here, you’ll need to reset the machine. Unplug the washing machine for a minute, then plug it back in to reset any minor electronic glitches.

Expert tip from a Domex engineer: “A customer once thought their Bosch washing machine had broken down, but it turned out the child lock was on. After holding the start button for five seconds, the machine worked perfectly again!”

Problem 2: Water not draining properly

Possible causes and solutions:

• Clogged drain pump filter: You should start by cleaning the drain pump filter. The drain pump filter is located at the bottom front of the machine. Unscrew the filter, remove any debris and clean it thoroughly.

• Kinked or blocked drain hose: Ensure there are no kinks or blockages in the drain hose that could be preventing water from flowing out.

• Faulty drain pump: Listen for any buzzing or unusual sounds during the drain cycle. If the pump sounds faulty, it may need professional repair.

Problem 3: Drum not spinning

Possible causes and solutions:

• Unbalanced load: Uneven distribution of clothes can prevent the drum from spinning. Pause the cycle, redistribute the load or ensure that your washer is not at full load capacity and resume the wash.

• Snapped or loose drive belt: If the belt has snapped or become loose, the drum won’t spin. This may require professional assistance.

• Worn-out motor brushes: In such cases, you’ll likely see error code E23, which is related to motor faults. Motor brushes wear out over time, causing the drum to stop spinning. Replacement of the brushes should be carried out by a qualified engineer.

Expert tip from a Domex engineer: “If your drum stops spinning, always check the balance of the load first. Smaller loads tend to shift, causing the machine to stop.”

Problem 4: Water leaks from the machine

Possible causes and solutions:

• Worn-out door seal: Inspect the door seal and look for cracks, tears or trapped debris around the door seal. Replace it if you find any damage.

• Loose or damaged water inlet hose: Check the water inlet hoses. Ensure the hoses are securely attached and not leaking.

• Overuse of detergent causing oversudsing: Too much detergent can lead to oversudsing, which can cause leaks. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended detergent dosage.

Problem 5: Excessive noise or vibrations

Possible causes and solutions:

• Unbalanced laundry load: Stop the cycle and rearrange the clothes to distribute the weight evenly. 

• Worn-out shock absorbers: Shock absorbers wear out over time, especially with frequent use. Replace worn parts to minimise noise and vibrations.

• Machine placed on an uneven surface: Use a spirit level to ensure the washing machine is standing evenly on the floor. Adjust the feet if necessary.

Expert tip from a Domex engineer: “Always ensure your machine is level. Even slight tilts can cause significant vibrations, leading to excessive noise.”

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Your Bosch Washing Machine

Having covered some of the most common problems and their potential solutions, there are also certain preventative maintenance steps you can take to ensure your Bosch washer functions optimally. These include regular cleaning, using the right detergent in the right quantities and using a washing machine cover. Let’s look at each one in more detail below.

Regular cleaning

• Clean the drum and seal: Wipe the drum and door seal regularly to prevent the build-up of mould and mildew.
• Run a maintenance cycle: Run an empty hot cycle (90°C) with a washing machine cleaner or vinegar to clean the drum and remove any residual detergent.

Use the right detergent

• Avoid overusing detergent: Excessive detergent can cause drainage problems and clog the system, causing potential damage. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the right detergent and the right quantities to use.
• Select a high-efficiency detergent: Bosch machines work best with high-efficiency (HE) detergent, which produces fewer suds.

Use a washing machine cover

• Prevent external damage: A washing machine cover can protect your appliance from dust, moisture and accidental damage, especially in shared or outdoor spaces.
• Extend the lifespan: Protecting your washing machine from external elements helps reduce wear and tear.

Understanding Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes

Bosch washing machines are equipped with an advanced error code system that helps diagnose issues quickly. Here are some of the most common error codes and what they mean, along with steps you can take to troubleshoot the issues:

• E18: Drainage issue: This code appears when there is a problem with the water drainage system, often caused by a clogged drain pump filter or a kinked hose. To resolve this, clean the drain pump filter and check the hose for blockages.
• E23: Motor or control board fault This error typically points to a problem with the motor or control board. It may require professional repair, especially if the machine isn’t responding after a reset.
• E27: Door lock malfunction: If the door doesn’t close properly or is obstructed, this code will appear on the display. Check the door seal and latch for debris or damage. Ensure the door is fully closed before starting a cycle.
• E17: Water supply error: This indicates the washing machine isn’t filling with water as expected. The cause may be a blocked water inlet valve or low water pressure. Ensure the water supply is turned on and check for any obstructions in the inlet filter.
• F43: Drum rotation issue: This error signals that the drum isn’t rotating properly. It could be caused by an overloaded drum, motor brush wear or a drive belt problem. Try removing some clothes or contact a professional for motor inspection.
• E04: Over-foaming detected: Over-sudsing due to excessive detergent can trigger this code. Run a rinse cycle to clear the foam, and ensure you’re using the correct amount of detergent in future washes.
• E32: Imbalance error: This occurs when the laundry is unevenly distributed in the drum. Pausing the machine and redistributing the load should clear the error.

By understanding these common error codes, you can troubleshoot many of the issues yourself. For more complex problems like motor faults (E23) or drum rotation issues (F43), it’s best to contact a qualified engineer. 

Domex Repair & Care Service Plan for Bosch Washing Machines

From your heating element not working to visible damage of your washer, you need the Domex Repair & Care Service Plan to ensure flawless operations.

What is the Repair & Care Service Plan?

Unlike traditional appliance insurance, the Domex Repair & Care Service Plan offers comprehensive protection and support for your washing machine. It includes both repair and ongoing care to ensure your machine remains in top condition.

Benefits of the Repair & Care Service Plan

• No surprise costs: The plan covers parts, labour and call-outs, so you won’t face unexpected expenses.
• Ongoing maintenance: Regular care is provided to prevent issues before they escalate.
• Expert engineers: Domex engineers are Bosch experts, ensuring any repairs are carried out to the highest standard.

Why choose the Domex Repair & Care Plan?

It’s more than just a repair service; it’s a complete solution for maintaining your washing machine. Whether you’re dealing with persistent leaks or need professional help with error codes, our plan has you covered.

When to Call a Professional

There are certain signs that you need professional help when it comes to your Bosch washer. Examples include persistent error codes, especially related to the motor or control board. In addition, you may face water leaks that cannot be resolved by tightening hoses or cleaning the seal. And lastly, your machine won’t start at all, even after troubleshooting basic issues.

Luckily, with Domex, you get professional services that give you lasting peace of mind. Here’s what you can expect when you choose us:

• 12-month guarantee on repairs: All our repairs come with a 12-month warranty on both parts and labour.

• Qualified engineers across London and the South East: We service areas including Leicester, Nottingham, Lincoln, Coventry, Brighton, Epsom, Leatherhead, Crawley, Guildford and many more.

If you’re experiencing persistent issues with your washing machine, book a repair with Domex. We cover London and the South East, and our engineers are trained to handle even the most complex Bosch washing machine problems. Whether it’s a faulty water pump, incomplete spin cycles, unexpected heating, a faulty door interlock system or damaged locking mechanism or even a blocked lint filter, our engineers are fully trained to resolve all types of Bosch washer issues.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and timely troubleshooting can help extend the lifespan of your Bosch washing machine. By following the tips mentioned here, you can resolve common problems and ensure your appliance continues running smoothly.

For complex issues or repairs, the Domex engineers are always on hand to assist customers across London, Leicester, Nottingham and beyond. And for added peace of mind, consider enrolling in our Domex Repair & Care Service Plan to keep your washing machine in peak condition.