How To Repair A Bosch Washer That Won’t Spin

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Fred's Appliance Academy
August 10, 2020
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Bosch washing machines are well-known for their performance and longevity, but sometimes they can develop a weak spin or not spin up at all. Fortunately, you don’t always have to replace the entire unit if your washer is not working. In many cases, simple fixes will get the machine up and running again. 

Most modern Bosch washers have similar internal layouts, components, and structures.

Common Reasons Why Your Bosch Washer Won’t Spin 

Several things can go wrong with your washer that causes it not to spin. These include: 

  • A blockage of the drain pump
  • An imbalanced drum
  • Worn out motor brushes

Washer Repair Safety Tips

  • Always turn off your washing machine at the mains and unplug it from the wall socket before starting work. If you don’t, you could risk electrocution. 
  • Wear both gloves and safety goggles when working with internal washing machine components
  • If you don’t feel confident with any stage of a repair job, contact a repair specialist

How To Repair Bosch Brushes

Bosch is a reputable manufacturer famed for the quality of its products. However, motor brushes can wear out after around five or six years of regular use. When that happens, they can no longer deliver the power required to spin the drum, necessitating clothes washer repair. 

Tools 

  • Electric or manual screwdriver with the appropriate flat and Philips heads for your model of washing machine
  • Torch
  • Wrench with appropriate attachments
  • Flat-head pliers
  • New Bosch brushes

Method

  1. Remove the washer from the wall. Disconnect the drain tube and vent tube from the dryer (if applicable) and pull out from the walls. 
  2. Rotate the machine to access the back panel and remove all the screws around the edges. Lift off the panel and put it to one side. Keep screws in a dish or on a magnetic plate for safe storage. 
  3. At the back of the machine, you should see the main body of the drum and the drive belt. To remove the belt, turn the drum unit slightly to the left, allowing it to slip off its channel in the drum. 
  4. Next, remove the ground connector from the motor, located under the drum. Bosch ground connectors typically use blue wires. 
  5. To remove the motor itself, unscrew the two bolts at the front with the wrench and correct attachment (usually, 10mm Torx). Once extracted, pull the motor towards you, and until it slips out of the plastic lugs that hold it in position. If the motor is tight after removing the screws, gently pry it towards you using the screwdriver to release it from its housing. 
  6. Once the motor is free of the machine, remove the modular connector at the base. If it is tight, use a pair of pliers to pull on each corner until it lets go. 
  7. Take the motor out of the machine and place it on a table to inspect it thoroughly. 
  8. Use a pair of pliers to pull back the spade connector that hooks to the brush. Tilt the old brush first to the left and up, and then to the right to release it from its compartment in the motor. 
  9. Next, insert the new brushes. The heads of the new brushes are significantly longer than the old ones. Place the new brush in the slot the old one came out. You’ll notice that the brushes have a chamfered end. Take note of the orientation of the chamfer on the old brush and insert the new one the same way around. 
  10. Take your time feeding the spring into the motor. Sometimes it can spring out of the brass housing. Use a bright light if you’re struggling to see your work.
  11. Once the brush is back in position, put the spade electrical connector back into its original place. Ensure that it fully engages with the connector. 
  12. Bosch motor units typically have two brushes. Flip the motor over and follow steps 8 to 11 to replace this one too. 
  13. After replacing the brushes, it is time to put the motor back in the machine. Replace the electric connector first, followed by the spade connector. Then use the bolts you set aside earlier to screw it back into position. 
  14. Replace the back panel of the washing machine and then reconnect the drain tube, vent tube if applicable, and mains power connector. 

How To Repair A Drain Pump Blockage

Bosch washing machines can also sometimes experience a drain pump blockage. 

Tools 

  • Towel
  • Washing up bowl
  • Electric or manual screwdriver with Torx head
  • Water pliers

Method: Check The Filter

  1. Turn the appliance off at the mains and disconnect the power supply. Then, unhook the drain tube.
  2. Place a towel down in front of the machine to mop up any water that may spill onto the floor.
  3. Next, locate the filter. You can usually find this under a panel at the front of the machine. 
  4. Pull out the emergency drain hose, unscrew the end, and then allow it to drain into a washing up bowl.
  5. Unscrew the primary filter, turning it anticlockwise until it comes loose. Clean it thoroughly. Check for foreign objects, such as coins or hair clips. Also, check that the impeller at the rear of the filter cavity spins freely before replacing the filter. 
  6. Replace the filter and ensure that it fits snugly in the machine, preventing water from spilling out, and replace the front cover. 

Method: Check The Sump Hose

  1. Remove the back of the washing machine unit using a screwdriver and locate the sump hose.
  2. Use water pliers to release the jubilee clip attaching the hose to the pump chamber, and gently pull it off. 
  3. Inspect the interior of the hose to make sure that it is free from blockages. Clear out any debris that you find, including coins, clips, paper, or small items of clothing, like socks. 
  4. Remove the jubilee clip at the other end of the sump hose and inspect the pressure chamber. Remove any foreign objects you find. 
  5. Replace the sump hose onto the tub and pressure chamber, and screw the rear panel back on. 
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