What does error F16 (E16) mean on a Bosch washing machine and how to fix it?

Bosch automatic washing machines have a good built-in self-diagnosis function that allows the user to determine what the problem is.

One of the codes that may appear on the display is E16 (or F16 depending on the model).

What does error code F16 mean on a Bosch washing machine, how to detect a malfunction and fix it, we will tell you further.

Decoding the F16 code for a Bosch washing machine

Error F16 indicates a problem with the hatch blocking. In this case, the washing process does not start and water does not enter the tank.. In devices with a display, the door error is coded as F16 or E16.

In very old washing machines without a display, a problem with the door may be indicated by the blinking of the “Ready” indicator (in the MAXX4 line) or the blinking of two indicators “Wash” and “Rinse” (in the CLASSIX line).

The appearance of code F16 does not in all cases indicate a serious breakdown; in some situations it may be a user error.

How is the hatch blocked?

In a Bosch washing machine Locking the hatch door takes place in two stages. First, the door closes mechanically.At the same time, a characteristic click is heard, which indicates the lock is closing.

After the mechanical part is completed, a signal for electronic blocking comes from the control board. If a failure occurs at one of the stages, the washing process does not start, and the display shows the coding F16 (E16).

Reasons for the problem and ways to solve the problem

Error code F16 on the display may be due to a random combination of circumstances. To check this point, You can unplug the washing machine for half an hour and turn it on again. If the fault code has not been reset, you should proceed with a more detailed analysis.

After loading the laundry, the Bosch hatch door is closed. If the clicking sound is not heard and the hatch remains open, then the problem with E16 concerns parts involved in purely mechanical work.

Otherwise, if the door closes with a click, but the door does not lock when the program starts, it is highly likely that the reason is in the electronics.

Incorrect user actions

It often happens that the door is not completely closed, not until it clicks.. In this case, it is not blocked, and the control module does not send a command to start the cycle.

You should carefully inspect the Bosch hatch door, the cuff itself and the lock location. If a foreign object (for example, laundry from the drum) gets under the door, blocking does not occur.

Failure of door hinges

Despite all the reliability of Bosch equipment, breakdowns often occur. Door hinges can become deformed over time.. This may be due to both long-term service and careless attitude towards equipment.

If possible, the hinges should be repaired and the retaining bolts tightened. Otherwise, the hinges will have to be replaced. How to replace Bosch hatch door hinges can be seen in the video:

Broken locking tab or handle

If the door handle is broken and the tongue that should fit into the lock is deformed, the door will not lock. Broken plastic elements cannot be repaired - they are replaced with new ones.

If the plastic handle is broken, it must be replaced. This situation can occur if excessive force is applied when closing/opening the door, slamming it hard, etc. The plastic handle cannot be repaired.

You can learn more about the procedure for replacing the handle in the video:

UBL broke

If the hatch blocking device breaks down, it can cause error F16 to appear. The operating principle of the unit is based on the expansion of the plates under the influence of an electrical signal.

If the plates are worn, the locking does not work. You can check the functionality using a multimeter. The solution to the problem is to replace the element.

Control unit malfunction

The control module in a Bosch washing machine is a board with elements that controls the entire process of operation of the washing machine according to a given program.

To carry out diagnostics, the block is removed. If a breakdown is detected, the contacts are soldered and the necessary elements are replaced.

Repairs require special tools and experience with electronics. If the module is badly burned out, it is replaced entirely.

Wiring irregularities

If the contact in the circuit between the UBL and the control module is broken, the signal may not pass through, which is why the blocking will not be performed.Violations can even be caused by chafing of wires due to vibration; in a private building, rodents can also damage it.

To check the condition of the wiring and contacts, you need to inspect the wires themselves.. If necessary, twist or replace the wires with a whole cable.

Call the master

If you cannot solve the problem of eliminating error E16 on your own, you need to call a specialist.

Depending on the pricing policy of the company, the city and the complexity of the repair, the cost of the work is determined.

The average prices for repairs in Moscow are as follows:

• replacement of the hatch door lock – from 1,500 rubles;
• door hinge replacement – ​​from RUB 1,500;
• replacement of UBL – from 1600 rubles;
• repair of the control module – from 2500 rubles;
• elimination of wiring irregularities - from 1900 rubles.

If the technician performs other repair work along the way, the amount of payment increases. The cost of installation parts is not included in the price of the work and is paid separately. Upon completion of the repair, the repairman issues a warranty.

Preventive measures

To avoid the problem of blocking the Bosch hatch, You should remember the following preventive measures:

1. You should not slam the hatch door or close it in a big way.
2. Do not forcefully close or open the door as this may cause damage.
3. The Bosch washing machine must be protected from the pranks of children and the pranks of pets.
4. When putting things into the drum, it is necessary to ensure that the laundry does not interfere with closing the door and does not fall into the lock.
5. You should not compact things into the drum, since the application of force negatively affects not only the functionality of the hatch locking device, but can also lead to other malfunctions and breakdowns of the Bosch washing machine equipment.
6. If power surges often occur in the apartment, this can have a detrimental effect on the control unit of the Bosch washing machine and other components. In order not to put the device at risk, you can install a voltage stabilizer by connecting the washing machine to the network through it.

Recommendations

Faced with the problem of a malfunction of the Bosch washing machine with code E16, The following expert recommendations can help:

1. To analyze the UBL you will need a multimeter.
2. It is better to entrust the repair of the Bosch control unit to a specialist.
3. Any repair work must be carried out only after the washing machine is disconnected from the power supply and water supply.
4. To carry out repair work you will need a set of tools.
5. After fixing the problem in most Bosch washing machines, you should reset the error from the memory.

Conclusion

Error E16 on a Bosch washing machine does not always indicate an impending major repair. Very often the cause of failure is user error.

But if you can’t cope with the problem yourself, then It’s better not to experiment, but to contact a specialist and in the future remember about measures to prevent the occurrence of such a failure.