Bosch WAE28462GB/97 Washing Machine F21 Code

My Bosch WAE28462GB/97 Washing Machine's drum began to move in short ‘pulsed’ motions and then F21 code appeared.Have removed motor and brushes look fine (plenty of length and no obvious damage). I did notice some black deposits under the machine and at the rear of the motor there are some small crust like black deposits around the wide circular piece below the main frame of the body. Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

Mike Eklund

I will try and help with this problem about Bosch WAE28462GB/97 Washing Machine

Hi Mike, I'm sorry to hear about the issue with your Bosch washing machine, especially during a bank holiday weekend. The F21 error code usually suggests a problem with the motor or the circuit board. First, you should check the wiring from the circuit board to the motor. There are typically 6 to 8 wires connected to the motor, depending on its type. I've included some diagrams of your model below to help you locate all the components.

The black deposits you see are normal due to the carbon brushes in the motor. This fine dust can even rise up to the top of the machine. Known issues with this machine include carbon brushes getting hot in their holders. They should slide freely without any resistance. The spring behind the carbon brush ensures good contact with the armature. If the brushes stick in their holders, it may cause intermittent problems.

Make sure to check the wiring going to the circuit board and perform a continuity test on each wire. I've added a video below demonstrating how to test Bosch washing machine motors. If you can confirm that the motor is working properly, then it's likely an issue with the circuit board.

Regarding the pulsed motions on the motor, do you see any sparking from the armature when it pulses? This could indicate a problem with the motor. However, if it only rotates at 45 rpm clockwise and anti-clockwise but doesn't increase speed for spinning, it might be because the machine thinks there's water in the drum. Ensure that the pipe from the pressure switch to the pressure bowl at the bottom of the machine is clear since false indications of water can prevent spinning.

Unfortunately, Bosch doesn't provide technical information to the public and keeps workshop manuals for their engineers only. I can't find any literature for you, but there are some videos below on common faults and troubleshooting tips that may help. Good luck!
Here's a video on the right way to insert carbon brushes into this motor and test it. I'm sorry I can't help more. In the worst case, it could be the printed circuit board. These boards can be quite pricey, so it's worth checking eBay and other shopping sites for second-hand parts.

Sometimes, machines with your model number, WAE28462GB, have damaged bearings but good electrics. You might find one for a low price, around £20 to £30. Even if it has a different fault, you could still use its circuit board and motor.

I occasionally have second-hand parts, but sadly, I don't have any for your machine at the moment. The last one I had is already sold. I hope this article helps you, and I'm sorry I can't assist further.

If you want to support the site please mark us to your favourites, also I would be grateful if you would subscribe to our social media channels as this really helps my site and keeps us going.

YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/user/howtorepair
Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/how.to.repair.appliances
And if we really helped you save money you can always click on the Buy Paul a Beer page

Hi Paul,

Thanks for your response.

Following my message I had another closer look at the motor and noticed that the black disc like component, situated between the commutator and the bearings, had started to break apart with pieces lodged into the end if the commutator.
I'm not sure what that component is (speed sensor?) or why it was damaged (over heating from brushes or nearby bearings?) but the motor was obviously not repairable - at least not by myself.
I managed to pick up a spare motor for a reasonable price and fitted that to the machine. The machine now operates as it should. The new motor was a little noisy initially but I assumed that could be new brushes bedding in.
The motor is now much quieter and has been running successfully for a few weeks.

Regards,