Dealing with a Bosch dishwasher that starts then stops can be incredibly frustrating. Imagine loading your dishes, and starting the wash cycle, only to find that it stops mid-cycle. This issue disrupts your routine and leaves you with a sink full of dirty dishes.
One common cause of this problem is a faulty door latch, which prevents the dishwasher from running properly. Did you know that a Bosch dishwasher’s sophisticated sensors can detect even the slightest issue and shut down to prevent further damage?
In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind this malfunction, explore common error codes, and provide practical solutions to get your dishwasher back on track. Whether it’s a minor clog or a more serious technical glitch, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow steps and expert advice. Let’s get your Bosch dishwasher working properly again!
Why My Bosch Dishwasher Starts and then stops?
Here are the reasons why your dishwasher starts and then stops unexpectedly:
- Door Latch Issues: If the door isn’t closing properly or the latch is faulty, the dishwasher will stop mid-cycle and beep. Bosch dishwashers are equipped with sensors that require the door to be securely closed to start the wash cycle.
- Faulty Thermal Fuse: A thermal fuse helps protect your appliance from overheating. If this fuse is blown or malfunctioning, it can cause the dishwasher to stop shortly after starting.
- Control Board Problems: The control board is the brain of your dishwasher. If it’s malfunctioning, the Bosch dishwasher stops unexpectedly. This could be due to electrical issues or worn-out components.
- Water Supply Issues: Problems with the water inlet valve or pressure can halt the operation. Ensure your water supply is consistent and the inlet valve is functioning properly.
- Drain Pump Problems: A clogged or faulty drain pump can prevent the dishwasher from draining water, causing it to stop mid-cycle. Regularly check for obstructions such as food particles and debris in the drain pump and drain hose.
- Soap Buildup: Excessive soap scum on the door seals can prevent the door from closing tightly. This can interrupt the cycle, as the dishwasher senses an improperly closed door.
- Sensor Issues: Bosch dishwashers have multiple sensors that monitor different aspects of the wash cycle. A faulty sensor may incorrectly detect a problem and stop the cycle to prevent damage.
How Can I Troubleshoot a Bosch Dishwasher That Starts and Then Stops?
Change the Door Latch:
Ensure the door is closing properly and the latch is engaging. If the latch is misaligned or damaged, you will need to adjust or replace it. A properly secured door is crucial for the dishwasher to operate.
Here’s how you can replace the door latch of the Bosch dishwasher:
- Ensure safety by unplugging the dishwasher or turning off the circuit breaker.
- Open the dishwasher door and unscrew and pull down the outer door panel to remove it.
- Unscrew the inner door panel screws that secure the control panel.
- Gently pull the control panel off and disconnect the wire harness from the old door latch.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to bend back the mounting tabs and slide the old door latch out.
- Position the new door latch in the control panel and snap it into place. Bend the mounting tabs back to secure it.
- Connect the wire harness to the new door latch and reassemble all the parts.
- Turn the power supply back on and test the dishwasher to ensure it functions properly.
You can watch this video for visual clarify of the steps I have mentioned above.
Inspect the Inlet Valve:
Check the water inlet valve to ensure it’s not clogged and the water pressure is adequate. Inspect the inlet and outlet hoses for any kinks or blockages. A steady water supply is essential for the wash cycle to continue.
Replace the Thermal Fuse:
If the thermal fuse is blown, it needs replacement. Access the control panel and test the fuse with a multimeter. A functioning thermal fuse prevents the dishwasher from overheating.
Reset the Appliance:
Try resetting the dishwasher by pressing the start button for 3 seconds, then turning it off and on again. You can also unplug the dishwasher or trip the circuit breaker for a few minutes to complete the reset.
If this doesn’t work, you will need to check the control board and replace it if needed.
Unclog the Drain Pump and Filter:
The dishwasher filter is located at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove and clean it to ensure there are no blockages. Here’s how you can do it:
- Pull out the lower dishwasher rack to reach the filter.
- Twist the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and lift the filter out.
- Detach the fine mesh filter from the coarse filter.
- Rinse all parts under running water using mild soap and a soft brush to remove debris.
Next, inspect the drain pump for any debris and clean it if necessary. Proper drainage is crucial for the dishwasher to function correctly. You should also check the drain hose for clogs. If you find any, remove it by following the below steps:
- Detach the drain hose from both the dishwasher and the sink drain or garbage disposal.
- Check for any visible kinks or twists in the hose and straighten them out.
- Inspect the hose for blockages by looking through it or feeling along its length.
- To clear the clog, run hot water through the hose. Use a long brush to remove debris and soak the hose in a solution of hot water and vinegar if needed.
- If blockages persist, consider using a plumbing snake or replacing the hose.
- Run a quick rinse cycle to ensure the water drains properly.
After that, you should also check the Air Gap for blockage (If you have one).
- Find the air gap, usually a small cylinder at the back of your sink near the faucet.
- Manually lift off the chrome cover and unscrew the plastic cap underneath.
- Remove any visible debris or material inside the air gap using a brush or a toothpick.
- Ensure the hose from the air gap to the sink drain or garbage disposal is not clogged.
Clean the Door Seals:
Excessive soap scum on door seals can prevent proper sealing and cause the dishwasher to stop. Wipe down the door seals to remove any soap buildup. Clean seals ensure the door closes tightly.
Check the Sensor:
Check the dishwasher’s sensors for any signs of damage or malfunction. Faulty sensors may require professional assistance to be replaced.
When Should I Call a Professional for My Bosch Dishwasher?
If your Bosch dishwasher continues to start and then stop despite your troubleshooting efforts, it may be time to call a professional technician. Here are situations where professional help is necessary:
- Basic Troubleshooting Fails: After checking the door latch, cleaning the filters, inspecting the water supply, and resetting the dishwasher, the issue persists.
- Complex Issues: Problems involving complex components like the control board, thermal fuse, or sensors require specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and repair.
- Error Codes: The dishwasher displays error codes that you cannot resolve using the manual or basic troubleshooting steps.
- Persistent Water Supply Problems: Issues with the water inlet valve or persistent water pressure problems that you cannot fix may require a professional plumber.
- Electrical Issues: Signs of electrical problems, such as tripped breakers, burnt smells, or visible damage to wiring, need immediate professional attention to avoid safety hazards.
- Drainage Problems: Persistent clogs or issues with the drain pump that you cannot clear might indicate a deeper problem that a professional technician should address.
- Warranty Considerations: If your dishwasher is still under warranty, attempting repairs yourself might void the warranty. It’s best to call a professional to ensure the warranty remains valid.
What Maintenance Steps Can Prevent My Bosch Dishwasher from Stopping Unexpectedly?
To keep your Bosch dishwasher running smoothly and prevent unexpected stops, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Clean the Filters Regularly: Take out the filters and rinse them under running water every 1-2 months. Use a soft brush to remove debris, preventing clogs that can cause the dishwasher to stop mid-cycle.
- Check and Clean the Spray Arms: Detach the spray arms and clear any blockages in the nozzles. Make sure the spray arms can rotate freely to improve water circulation and cleaning performance.
- Inspect and Clean the Door Seal: Use a damp cloth to clean the door gasket, removing soap scum and debris. Look for any wear or damage that could cause leaks, which might trigger the dishwasher to stop for safety reasons.
- Clean the Drain Hose and Check for Kinks: Disconnect and flush the drain hose to remove any buildup. Make sure the hose is not kinked or bent, as this can cause drainage issues.
- Descale Regularly: Run a dishwasher descaler through the machine every 4-6 months, especially in hard water areas. This prevents limescale buildup that can affect performance and cause unexpected stops.
- Check the Water Inlet Valve: Periodically clean the filter screen in the water inlet valve to ensure proper water flow and prevent stopping due to insufficient water.
- Inspect the Thermal Fuse: Have a professional inspect the thermal fuse annually to ensure it is functioning properly and not causing the dishwasher to shut off unexpectedly.
- Run an Empty Hot Water Cycle Monthly: Run a hot water cycle without dishes once a month to flush out any buildup in the system and keep components clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Turbidity Sensor Causing My Bosch Dishwasher to Stop Prematurely?
Yes, a faulty turbidity sensor can cause your Bosch dishwasher to stop prematurely. This sensor measures the cleanliness of the water during the wash cycle. If it malfunctions, it may incorrectly signal that the water is clean, ending the cycle early.
Is it normal for a Bosch dishwasher to stop working after a few cycles?
No, it is not normal for a Bosch dishwasher to stop working after just a few cycles. Bosch dishwashers are known for their reliability and longevity. If your dishwasher stops prematurely, it likely indicates an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Can a faulty door switch cause a Bosch dishwasher to stop working?
Yes, a faulty door switch can cause a Bosch dishwasher to stop working. The door switch ensures the dishwasher door is securely closed before it starts or continues a cycle. If malfunctioning, it may stop the dishwasher mid-cycle or prevent it from starting.
Conclusion
Experiencing issues with your Bosch dishwasher starting and then stopping can be frustrating. Understanding potential causes, such as door latch problems, water supply issues, and control board malfunctions, is crucial for troubleshooting.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing unexpected stops. Cleaning filters, spray arms, and door seals can keep your appliance running smoothly. Ensuring proper water flow and descaling the machine regularly also helps maintain performance.
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, calling a professional is essential. Complex problems with components like the control board or thermal fuse require expert attention.
I hope you liked this article and found it helpful. If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to ask in the comment section below.
