Since installing my Bosch Integra dishwasher SHX45P06UC/64 in June of 2011, the dishwasher has performed very well.
Although I had to make some majors repairs since purchase (i.e. replaced a water inlet valve in 2015, replaced a circulating pump in 2015 and replaced a drain pump in 2018, I attributed those problems to my neighborhood tied to a city water authority with hard water (i.e. limescale, mineral deposits).
My latest dishwasher problem began to surface about a week ago when Finish dishwasher detergent tabs started to remain not dissolved after completing a washing cycle. Few days later, this happened:
- Dishwasher would start by draining any standing water (meaning the drain pump was working)
- It would then fill the tub with hot water; I had the dishwasher pulled out halfway to so that I can watch the float assembly (Bosch part # 00440670, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-pressure-chamber-440670-ap3783242.html) and water inlet system (Bosch part # 00263833, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-water-inlet-system-263833-ap2802392.html) filled the tub with water in about 4 seconds so the inlet valve was working properly.
- After filling, the dishwasher failed to get the circulation pump (Bosch part # 00442548, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-circulation-pump-442548-ap3842231.html started (heard 4 distinct buzzing noise to get the pump going), then the unit went completely silent;
- The error code E01 indicated a problem with hydro sensor (a.k.a. overflow float switch) but I visually confirmed the bottom of the plastic basin was completely dry (I have a complete list of Bosch dishwasher error codes here); Furthermore, I lifted the red stick attached to the float assembly to simulate the flooded basin situation and confirm that water was pumped out
I knew the unit was getting up there in age (an operating in a harsh mineral-rich water), I wanted to do a rough repair cost estimate before jumping into making repairs again:
- New circulation pump and motor assembly (Bosch part# 0442548, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-circulation-pump-442548-ap3842231.html ), cost around $200
- New hose clamp, pump to heater (Bosch part # 00172272, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-hose-clamp-pump-172272-ap2802455.html )), cost around $16
- New sump gasket (Bosch part # 00263102, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-sump-gasket-263102-ap2802361.html ), cost around $16
- New top basket-crockery rack (Bosch part # 00248820, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-basket-crockery-248820-ap4508831.html ), cost around $220
- New bottom basket-crockery (Bosch part# 00248823, https://www.appliancepartspros.com/bosch-basket-crockery-248823-ap4483969.html ), cost around $130
No, I guess I didn’t really need to replace the top and bottom rack assemblies; instead I could have opted to just apply some PlastiDip Performix ReRack or Silicone Dishwasher Rack Caps stuff on rust spots but given the harsh environment (i.e. repeated high, moist temps) and the fact that we drink and eat off dishes and glasses, I did not want to risk ingesting any chemicals.
The bottom line is that Bosch replacement products are very expensive so it did not make sense to make further repairs on my dishwasher.
Well, with 2 kids and a dog, my wife and I simply could not keep up with handwashing dishes so I may possible end up buying a scratch and dent “new open-box” unit from a local vendor.
I may also part out the dishwasher and sell them on eBay or Craigslist to help reduce waste and re-coup some money.
I am heading out to the store tomorrow so I will let you know what happens.
Wish me luck!
NOTE to Bosch – We all want to help save the planet and keep our appliances working as long as possible. How about making your replacement products less expensive so that consumers will opt to fix the problem rather than chucking it and buying a new one?
