How to Replace Washing Machine Door Lock (Bosch)

If your washing machine lights up correctly but doesn’t start a program, it may show an error code which on a typical Bosch machine is F16 then the problem is usually with either the door interlock or the door release mechanism. If you need to replace the door lock but are unsure where to start, there’s no need to panic. In this guide, we will take you through the steps in replacing the door lock.

Please Note: If the door swing doesn't move smoothly or does not allow the door to close, it's likely to be a problem with the hinge. This repair can be viewed in a different advice article - How To Fix A Broken Washing Machine Door Lock - Hotpoint

This video shows an example on how to remove or replace the part on a typical machine, some models may be different but the procedure should be similar.

• Door Lock
• Screwdriver

Safety First! Please make sure that you have switched your appliance off at the mains before starting your repair.

Open the door and remove the retaining band around the door seal using a flat blade screwdriver, be careful that you don’t damage the cabinet or the door seal at this point. Push the door seal inside and reach inside to the door lock, using a screwdriver push the pips to release the lock and take out. Turn the door lock to remove the emergency door release, you can now disconnect the electrical connections and remove the old door lock.

Refit the emergency door release first by lining it up on the new lock and twist till it’s firmly in place, you can now reconnect the electrical connection. Place the lock back into place and it has a groove which holds it in place on the front panel, once in push it towards the front panel to lock the pips back into their holes. 

Refit the door seal back on and if you’re having trouble you can use a little bit of washing up liquid around the door seal to make it easier to slip on. When fitting the retaining band it’s a good idea to fit it on the side by the hinge instead of the bottom, this will stop it from rusting if you have a leak.

You have now successfully replaced your washing machine door lock and door catch mechanism. You can now get back to being able to wash your clothes again in no time, in the knowledge that you have fixed the door lock and door release mechanism all by yourself (with a little help from eSpares of course!).

Fancy Giving Your Washing Machine Some Loving Care & Attention?

Your washing machine no doubt works hard for you in getting your clothes nice and clean. If you want to show it some TLC, then it is a great idea to protect it from the build-up of limescale & detergent that can happen over time in your machine. Introducing the eSpares Limescale & Detergent Remover - where by using this you can help protect from this, as well as removing bad odours and bacteria build-up.

*Not suitable for top loading appliances

Need To Locate The Correct Door Lock For Your Washing Machine?

As well as being one of the easiest DIY appliances fixes out there, fixing your washing machine door lock yourself can save you a lot of money compared to booking a repair or buying a new washing machine. Here at eSpares, we have a wide-range of replacement washing machine door locks and door release mechanisms for you to select from - so you can soon be on your way to repairing it yourself.

Now you can add washing machine door lock and door release mechanism replacement to your DIY repertoire. Congratulations! You can also find lots more of our useful help and tips on looking after your appliances at home, and also further advice and video tutorials on how to fix your appliances yourself at the eSpares Advice Centre.