Bosch Front-Load Washer Recall 2018

What Is Recalled#

What Is the Risk?#

The electronic door lock can malfunction and release the door during high-speed spin cycles (up to 1,400 RPM). An open door during spin poses a risk of injury from the spinning drum and water expulsion. BSH received 11 reports of the door opening during spin.

This is a critical safety hazard. If your [Bosch washer](/blog/bosch-washer-dryer-combo-error-codes) is affected, take immediate action as described below. Do not delay — the identified defect poses a genuine risk to your safety. CPSC recall remedies are always free — there is no reason to postpone.

Affected Models#

The following Bosch model numbers are included in this recall. Check your model number on the rating plate and compare it against this list:

Important: This list may not be exhaustive. Some recalls are updated after the initial announcement to add newly identified model numbers. Always verify your specific model and serial number with Bosch directly or on the CPSC recall notice.

Official Remedy#

Free in-home replacement of the electronic door lock mechanism with an updated design featuring a mechanical backup latch. BSH dispatches authorized technicians. Repair takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Key points about the recall remedy process:

• The repair, replacement, or refund is completely free — you pay nothing for parts or labor.
• You do not need the original receipt for CPSC recalls. The model and serial number are sufficient to verify eligibility.
• The recall applies regardless of whether you are the original purchaser. Second owners, tenants, and landlords are all eligible.
• CPSC recalls never expire. Even if this recall was announced years ago, you can still get the free repair if your unit was never serviced.
• If the manufacturer does not respond within 30 days, file a complaint at SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC at 1-800-638-2772.

What To Do#

If your Bosch washer model number matches the list above, take these steps immediately:

1. Check if your Bosch washer model starts with WAT, WAW, WAP, or WGA
2. Do not stand directly in front of the washer during the spin cycle until the recall repair is completed
3. Register at bosch-home.com/us/support/recalls or call 1-800-944-2904
4. If the door opens during spin, press the power button to stop the machine immediately

Mechanical Safety Hazards in Washing Machines#

Front-load washers like the affected Bosch models spin at speeds up to 1,400 RPM, generating significant centrifugal force. When a door lock mechanism fails during the spin cycle, the sudden release of the door can allow water, detergent, and laundry to be ejected forcefully. The rapidly spinning drum also poses a direct impact hazard. Unlike fire or gas leak risks, mechanical hazards from washer door failures require immediate physical distance from the machine rather than detector-based warnings.

Bosch front-load washers use an electronic door lock (door interlock switch) that serves both as a safety mechanism and a water containment seal. The affected WAT, WAW, WAP, and WGA models use a specific lock assembly that can intermittently lose its holding force. Until the recall repair replaces this lock with a design that includes a mechanical backup latch, avoid standing directly in front of the washer during spin cycles, and never reach toward the door while the drum is spinning.

Frequently Asked Questions#

How dangerous is it if the washer door opens during spin?#

Very dangerous. A front-load washer spinning at 1,400 RPM generates significant centrifugal force. If the door releases, hot water can be expelled forcefully, the drum contents can fly out, and the sudden imbalance can cause the washer to rock violently. Keep children and pets away from the washer during operation until the recall repair is completed.

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Worried about your washer? Our certified technicians can inspect your Bosch washer, verify recall status, and ensure safe operation. Book a safety inspection at /book.