Error F04 in a Bosch washing machine

Thanks to a fairly advanced self-diagnosis system, Bosch washing machines are able to independently determine the breakdown and tell the user about it using a special code. The error code helps not only users, but even experienced technicians, significantly reducing the time to diagnose a fault. Error F04 in a Bosch washing machine is a clear example of the successful operation of the self-diagnosis system, and today we will analyze this error in detail.

Decoding this code

Error F04 is most often deciphered by the user independently, so to speak, on a whim. Unfortunately, this error indicates too obvious malfunctions that can be seen with the naked eye. In short, error code F04 indicates that a water leak has occurred.

As a rule, when this error appears, a rather large puddle forms on the floor under the body of the washing machine. It is impossible not to notice this puddle, so the user will immediately understand that a leak has occurred, but where did this leak form? Sometimes only a specialist can answer this question; the user cannot always detect the unfortunate damage on his own. But let's not give up prematurely.

Bosch brand washing machines with full leakage protection may not release water from the tray. The sensor will work in time and block the flow of water, but usually some of it still ends up on the floor.

Causes of appearance and methods of elimination

what does error f04 look like? Why might a Bosch washing machine leak? There can be many options, let's give a few examples.

Sharp metal objects getting into the washing tank: bra underwire, hairpins, pins, etc. The object gets stuck between the drum and the wall of the tank, damaging the latter. Previously, when many washing machines had metal tanks, there was no such problem, now the tanks are made of plastic and they are quite fragile.
Manufacturing defects. The pipe, the pump, and maybe the tank itself turned out to be defective. Factory defects are insidious, and they may not appear immediately, but after some time. On Russian-made Bosch washing machines, the tanks sometimes burst at the seam.
The inlet hose is damaged. This is a classic problem. The inlet hose experiences significant water pressure. The slightest damage can cause a leak.
Loosely screwed garbage filter. The washing machine's garbage filter should be cleaned regularly. If you've done this recently, you may not have screwed the filter back in all the way. The slightest gap is enough for a leak to occur.
The powder tray is clogged. Leakage may occur through the tray if it is heavily clogged.
Damage to the hatch cuff. If the cuff is simply torn, then it cannot be a reliable barrier to water that seeps through the manhole cover directly onto the floor.

Perhaps these are the most common reasons for a washing machine leaking. To understand what exactly is leaking, you need to try, at least approximately, to localize the leak. For example, if water flowed along the front wall of the washer body, then a leak occurred in the area of the powder tray. If water flows down the back wall of the machine from somewhere above, you need to look at the base of the inlet hose closer to the body. In general, here you need to use your wits and carefully examine the “home assistant.”

If you cannot visually detect a leak without disassembling the machine, you need to turn off the “home assistant”, pull it out into the middle of the room and remove the back wall. By removing the back wall of the machine body, you will gain access to the tank and at the same time you will be able to inspect the pan. Perhaps the source of the leak is still oozing and it will be possible to pinpoint the location of the damage.

A leaking tank, pipe, hose or other element should be replaced. This is the first rule. No winding of electrical tape, soldering or other unnecessary and ineffective manipulations. Such repairs cannot be called reliable. An original part is purchased and installed in place of the old one. If you cannot make repairs yourself, invite a specialist, it will be even better. Good luck!