Error F21 Washer machine Bosch
Index of contents
What is the breakdown of the F21 error in Bosch affecting your washing machine?
If you have a Bosch washing machine and you see an F21 error code on the display, it means you have a somewhat serious problem with your appliance. However, there's no need to worry too much because every error is reparable, and that's why we're here to help you with this issue.
The F21 error code on your Bosch washing machine indicates that there's a problem with the washing machine's motor, which can have several causes and solutions. It's important to address this situation as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the appliance. In this article, we will explain what the F21 error code is, what its possible causes are, and how you can best resolve it.
The F21 error code refers to a fault in the washing machine's motor, which prevents it from spinning correctly and completing washing cycles. This failure can be due to various reasons, such as:
- The motor brushes are worn out or broken: Motor brushes are components that make contact with the motor's collector and allow electrical current to flow. If the brushes are in poor condition, the motor doesn't receive sufficient power and won't operate correctly.
- The motor wiring is damaged or disconnected: The wiring consists of the cables that connect the motor to the washing machine's electronic control board. If any of these cables are broken, cut, burnt, scorched, or simply loose and disconnected, the motor won't receive the proper signals and won't function as desired.
- There's some foreign object stuck in the motor: Sometimes, a small object like a coin, paperclip, or button can inadvertently find its way into the washing machine drum and reach the motor. This can cause the motor to become blocked and unable to spin.
As you may have noticed, these causes can be quite invasive when it comes to repairs, as you will need to disassemble parts of your washing machine to get to the root of the problem. However, in the list of solutions, we'll also provide some options that may not be as invasive.
Regardless, you always have the option of calling Bosch's technical service to have them inspect the motor of your washing machine.
How to fix the F21 error on your Bosch washing machine?
This type of error can have a quick solution if you carefully follow all the instructions we provide below. There are some possible solutions you can try before calling Bosch's technical service, and they are as follows:
- Reset the washer to recalibrate the sensors: Sometimes, the F21 error code can be a false positive caused by a power surge or electrical interference. In that case, you can try resetting the washer to recalibrate the sensors and clear the error. To do this, unplug the washer from the electrical outlet for a few minutes and then plug it back in. Turn it on, start a short washing cycle, and check if the error has disappeared.
- Inspect the motor brushes and replace them if necessary: If the problem is worn or broken motor brushes, you'll need to replace them with new ones. To do this, you'll have to remove the back panel of the washer and access the motor. Then, remove the old brushes and replace them with compatible ones for your washer model. Reassemble all the parts and run a test wash to see if the washer operates correctly.
- Check the motor wiring and repair it if necessary: If the issue is damaged, burnt, scorched, or disconnected motor wiring, you'll need to repair or replace it. Also, inspect the cable tips and their respective connections, as they can sometimes corrode due to moisture or detergent. To do this, you'll have to remove the back panel of the washer and access the motor. Then, check for any broken, cut, or loose wires and solder or reconnect them properly. Take the opportunity to perform preventive maintenance with electronic cleaner on the cable tips, connections, and the electronic board. Afterward, reassemble everything and check if the washer operates correctly by running a washing cycle.
- Check for any foreign objects stuck in the motor and remove them if necessary: If the problem is a foreign object stuck in the motor, you'll need to carefully remove it to free the motor. To do this, you'll have to remove the back panel of the washer and access the motor. Now, manually rotate the motor shaft and check for any obstructions. If you find any, carefully extract them without damaging the motor. Reassemble everything and start your washer on a washing cycle to check if it operates correctly.
- Repeat all the previous steps if the problem persists: If after trying all the possible solutions mentioned earlier, the F21 error code continues to appear on your Bosch washer, there may be a more serious issue with the motor or electronic board. In that case, you'll need to repeat all the previous steps and verify that everything is in order. If you don't find any abnormalities, it's possible that the motor or electronic board is defective and needs replacement.
- Contact Bosch technical support to resolve the issue: If after repeating all the previous steps, the F21 error code still appears on your Bosch washer, it's most likely a problem that requires the intervention of a qualified professional. In that case, you'll need to get in touch with Bosch's technical support and request a home visit from a specialized technician.
In conclusion, we can tell you that the F21 error code is a fault related to your washer's motor. It could be due to the motor getting blocked by a foreign object, an issue with your washer's wiring, or worn motor brushes.
To find a solution for the F21 error code on Bosch washers, you should follow these steps in the respective order:
- Reset the washer to recalibrate the sensors
- Inspect the motor brushes and replace them if necessary
- Check the motor wiring and repair it if necessary
- Check for any foreign objects stuck in the motor and remove them if necessary
- Repeat all the previous steps if the problem persists
- Contact Bosch technical support to resolve the issue
We genuinely hope we've been able to help you resolve the F21 error code on your Bosch washer. Remember that to prevent such situations with your appliance, it's ideal to maintain your washer with regular preventive maintenance. Periodically, every few months, request a visit from a specialized technician for a comprehensive maintenance check of your washer. This way, you'll extend its lifespan. Good luck and happy washing!