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Bosch Dishwasher Test Programs

Marlene Affeld

A product of German engineering, Bosch dishwashers are dependable and typically trouble-free kitchen appliances. Compared to other types of appliances, Bosch dishwashers are fairly simple machines with few mechanical parts. Before you go to the expense of calling a service technician, run a test cycle to troubleshoot any problem. If required, a repair manual and parts are readily available for purchase online or from your local Bosch appliance dealer.

Differences in Dishwasher Models

All Bosch dishwashers are equipped with a built-in test cycle to help isolate and identify malfunctions. The only difference between models is the name of the buttons. Some units present “Power Scrub Plus” and “Regular Wash” buttons. On other units, depending on your model and the country you are in, the same buttons are named “Wash” and “Eco.” On some Bosch dishwashers the buttons illuminate. Other models have a display panel.

Run a Test Cycle

To conduct a test cycle, hold down the “Power Scrub Plus” and “Regular Wash” button (or "Wash" and "Eco"). While these buttons are held down, press the “On/Off” button. The lights above the buttons will flash. Next, test the status of the individual dishwasher programs by pressing the button for each program. To run a complete test cycle, press the “Power Scrub Plus” and “Regular Wash” buttons again. The dishwasher will start up and run the cycle. When the cycle has ended, an indicator light will illuminate to indicate the malfunction.

Test Results

If the “Clean” indicator light is illuminated, the machine has a temperature sensor fault. If the temperature sensor is malfunctioning, the test will be quite short and the dishwasher will stop the test once the sensor problem has been detected. If the “Rinse/Dry” light illuminates, a water sensor/filling problem is indicated. If there is a problem with the water sensor, the test cycle will not complete as the dishwasher is unable to detect the correct level of water. Your Bosch dishwasher will just keep filling and draining repeatedly. If the “Wash” light is illuminated, the test indicates a heating fault. Check the heating element. Always disconnect the dishwasher from the electrical power source before attempting any do-it-yourself repairs.

Test Results for Units With Display Panel

If your Bosch dishwasher has a display panel, an error code will be shown if a malfunction is detected. If “0” is displayed, no errors are indicated. If “1” is illuminated, the dishwasher has a water sensor/filling problem. If “2” is displayed, the dishwasher has a heating fault. A “4” indicates a water-filling fault, and “8” indicates a temperature sensor fault.