Error Code: MACHINE CARE SYMBOL Difficulty: Easy
Problem: It is time to run the “Machine Care” cleaning cycle.
How to Fix MACHINE CARE SYMBOL Error (Step-by-Step)
- This light is a reminder to run the ‘Machine Care’ cleaning cycle.
- Make sure the dishwasher is empty of all dishes and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
- Add a dishwasher cleaning tablet or liquid cleaner as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Close the door and select the ‘Machine Care’ cycle and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
- Press the ‘Start’ button to begin the cleaning process and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
- The light will turn off once the cycle is complete.
- Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.
What to Check Next on This Bosch Dishwasher
Machine Care symbol: Machine Care is a cleaning reminder or program. It does not by itself prove a failed part, but ignored buildup can cause real wash or drain symptoms.
- Run the Machine Care program with the dishwasher empty and clean the filter before the cycle if debris is visible.
- Inspect the sump, spray-arm holes, and door gasket for grease or mineral buildup that can reduce water movement.
- If the reminder returns immediately or the dishwasher still drains or washes poorly, move from cleaning maintenance to drain pump, circulation, sensor, or control checks.
If the symptom returns after these checks, use the full Bosch model number from the door tag before ordering any part. The same display message can point to different parts depending on the exact model and what the dishwasher does during fill, wash, drain, or dry.
Recommended Parts to Check
No exact official OEM part number is listed here because the correct Bosch dishwasher part can vary by complete model number. These are targeted part-category searches, not universal fit claims.
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Bosch dishwasher water inlet valveCommon replacement category: Water inlet valveFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for fill and water-supply faults after the tap, hose, and inlet screen are checked. -
Bosch dishwasher drain pumpCommon replacement category: Drain pumpFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for drain and standing-water symptoms after the filter, sump, and hose are checked. -
Bosch dishwasher circulation pumpCommon replacement category: Circulation pump / wash motorFit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch dishwasher model number. Confirm compatibility before buying.Confidence: Medium
This category can be relevant for wash, spray-arm, and circulation symptoms after filters and spray arms are checked.
Before ordering: match the part to the complete Bosch dishwasher model number on the appliance tag.
Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.
More options (for a better recommendation)
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When It’s Better to Replace Than Repair
Dishwasher repairs can add up quickly when the pump, control, heater, or leak-related parts fail.
Confirm cabinet width, water line, drain routing, electrical connection, and panel style before ordering.
For repair parts, verify exact fit with the full dishwasher model number before buying; these links are general replacement-appliance shopping options.
- [OK]Drain pump or circulation pump failure
- [OK]Leaking tub, door, or float-switch issues
- [OK]Heater or control failures on an older unit
- [OK]Repeated poor washing or drying performance
Recommended Dishwasher Replacement Options
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