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Bosch Dishwasher Dial Sticks

Designed to save water and be energy efficient and quiet, Bosch dishwashers are dependable and normally trouble-free kitchen appliances. Unfortunately, with time and use, an operational problem may surface. If your dishwasher dial sticks, a few simple troubleshooting steps may resolve the issue and avoid the cost of calling a service technician.
  1. Clean Your Dishwasher

    • Inspect the dial and remove it to clean if required. Sticky food or debris may be preventing it from functioning properly. Use soapy water and an old toothbrush to remove residue. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. If the wash cycle is running longer than normal, it may be because sensors are covered with a filmy residue left by dishwashing detergent. Resolve this by placing a bowl face up in the bottom rack. Pour 2 to 3 cups distilled white vinegar in the bowl and set your dishwasher to run on a regular cycle. This removes the dulling residue and mineral buildup and allows the sensors to read the wash cycle's status.

    Timer

    • If your dial hangs up in exactly the same spot each time you run a cycle, the timer is likely defective and needs to be replaced. It is possible that a wire has broken. Repair manuals and parts are available online or from your Bosch appliance dealer. If you attempt to do the repairs yourself, make sure the electrical power to the dishwasher has been disconnected. Remove the plug from the wall outlet or turn off the power at your electrical breaker box.

    Water Temperature

    • The dial on your dishwasher may stop because it is waiting for the water to reach the correct temperature before it advances. Open the door and check if the water is cold. If so, you need to replace the heater. However, if you check the temperature and it is hot, it may not be advancing because the thermostat inside the door is not reading the temperature level correctly and therefore is not advancing the timer.

    Fire Hazard

    • If your Bosch dishwasher is an older model it may be subject to recall for a safety hazard. Bosch Home Appliance company and the U.S. Consumer Safety Protection Commission have issued a recall on dishwashers manufactured between May 1999 and July 2005. The malfunction can cause a fire hazard. If your unit was purchased during that time, stop using it immediately and call the service hotline or your Bosch home appliance dealer to determine if your machine is part of the recall.