In this article we will talk about what the F38 code means, and what to do if you find it on the display. As a rule, this means that a short circuit has occurred in the system.
The Bosch washing machine is designed to notify users of any problem encountered in each system. To do this, modern SMA provides a self-diagnosis system. It informs the user about the problem by displaying trouble codes.
Explanation, causes and symptoms of error F38
The Bosch washing machine generates error F38 when a short circuit occurs in the NTC sensor. In simple terms, we are talking about the temperature sensor of the Bosch washing machine.
A sign of the appearance of such an error is not only the code, but also the fact that the washer does not execute the washing program or freezes.
Attention! Short circuit is a dangerous process. It is better not to operate the machine if it detects a malfunction. Unplug the SM from the network and find a solution to the problem to avoid fire and more serious damage.
There may be several reasons for the breakdown:
- The first and most probable is the failure of the temperature sensor (thermistor, NTC sensor).
- Power surges. This may be the root cause of the breakdown and cause the temperature sensor to malfunction.
- Damage to the control board of the Bosch washing machine.
Self-repair: what to do
If F38 is lit on the display, before starting an independent repair, try to clear the error by rebooting the machine:
- Disconnect the Bosch washing machine from the mains by unplugging the plug.
- Leave on for 10-20 minutes.
- Turn on the washer.
If the error reset was successful, there may have been no breakdown, just the control unit failed. But if the error codes, in particular - F38, reappear, then a thorough repair is required.
In the best case, you will have to carry out an easy repair, replacing the temperature sensor. At worst, an electronic module will need to be replaced. Let's start with a simple one - replacing the temperature sensor.
Thermal Sensor - Check and Replace
Bosch washing machine shows error F38 on the display. How to fix the situation?
Start by checking the temperature sensor - to do this, you will have to slightly disassemble the case and carry out some operations.
Disassemble the machine according to this scheme (for example, the Bosch Maxx 5 model):
- Disconnect the AGR from the network.
- Armed with a suitable screwdriver, unscrew the 2 screws that are on the back of the machine to remove the top cover. Slide the cover back and remove it.
- Remove the powder intake. The cuvette is easily removed by pressing the button, which is located in the back, in the center.
- Next, you need to remove the front panel. Where there was a cuvette, you will find holes in which the fasteners are screwed in - you need to unscrew them. You will find another screw from the other side of the front panel. Remove the panel by pulling it towards you.
- Remove the technical access door below, remove the drain filter and drain the water. There you will find several fasteners that need to be unscrewed. At the bottom of the front wall there are also bolts that need to be twisted.
- To remove the front panel, remove the sunroof cuff. It is held by a special thin wire clamp. It is better to remove the clamp with a thin slotted (minus) screwdriver. Bring a screwdriver under the clamp and drive in a circle - it can easily be removed. Push the rubber cuff inside the drum. Now you can remove the panel.
- Below under the drum you will see the heater. Rather, not the whole thing, but its shank - you really need it, a temperature sensor is built into it.
- Remove the wires going to the sensor by clicking on the special tab, as in the photo.
- Try to get the sensor without removing the heater. Pry it off with a screwdriver and it should give in.
If you could not get the sensor on the built-in heater, remove the heater.
Now you need to check the sensor
- Take the tester and set the resistance measurement mode on it.
- Attach the probes to the sensor contacts.
- Measure the resistance.
- Heat the sensor in freshly boiled water (95 degrees).
- Measure the resistance.
- While you were taking measurements, the water cooled slightly. Now lower the sensor into warm water.
- Measure the resistance.
- If the indicators differ significantly, then the sensor is in good condition. If the multimeter is 0-1, then the sensor must be replaced.
Then you just have to buy a new sensor, install it in the heater, fix the heater in its place, bring the wires and assemble the machine to its original state.
Now you know what the error F 38 means, how to eliminate it and what to do when such a value is displayed on the scoreboard.
Sometimes, in order to reset errors, it is necessary to repair or replace the electronic module, but in this case it is better to contact specialists.