How to Replace Bosch Washer Shock Absorbers

Bosch engineers its washers differently, and the shock absorbers dampen the tub's spin-cycle movement. When they wear, you get excessive vibration, banging, the machine walking, and sometimes oil leaks. They are sold and replaced as a pair.

Tools, Parts, and Safety First#

• Tools needed: Torx T20 (if removing front panel), flathead screwdriver (pin tabs), pliers
• Parts needed: BSH 00742719 (varies by model and area for pair). Always replace both.
• Time required: 30-45 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Safety warning: Two people recommended. Machine weighs 170-190 lbs. If accessing from below, ensure stable support when tilted.

Step-by-Step Instructions#

Step 1 — Access the shock absorbers#

From below is the recommended route: with a helper, lay the machine on its back (protect the rear hoses), and both shocks are fully visible from the base. From the front is the alternative: pull the top panel off, tilt the control panel, release the gasket clamp, and remove the front panel, and both shocks come into view.

Step 2 — Remove the old shocks#

Each shock is pinned at the top (tub bracket) and bottom (frame bracket), and each pin has a plastic locking tab. For each pin, press the tab inward with a flathead screwdriver while pushing the pin out the opposite side, and once it is free that end slides out of the bracket. Remove both pins from one shock and extract it, then repeat for the second, noting which end connects where, since the tub and frame ends may have different eye sizes.

Step 3 — Install the new shocks#

Position each new shock in the correct orientation (the larger eye usually goes to the tub bracket), line the mounting eye up with the bracket hole, and drive the pin through the bracket and shock eye until the locking tab clicks. Tug to verify — the pin must not pull free. Do this for all four connection points (2 per shock, 2 shocks, 4 pins total).

Step 4 — Test#

Return the machine upright and run the push test: press the drum down through the door opening and release — it should bounce once and settle. Run a spin cycle with a balanced load (4-5 towels); the machine should be stable, since minor vibration at 1200+ RPM is normal but banging or walking is not. Then recalibrate by holding Start + RPM for 3 seconds, which remaps the vibration profile for the new damping.

How Do You Troubleshoot This?#

• Vibration still present: check the top suspension springs (they work with the shocks as a system) and re-level the machine.
• Banging continues: verify no shipping bolts are installed, and check for a foreign object between the drum and tub (an underwire or coin).
• One side drops more: the shock on that side is not fully pinned — recheck the locking-tab engagement.
• Oil on the floor: likely residual from the old shocks during removal; fresh oil from a new shock is a possible defect, so return it.

When Should You Call a Professional?#

EasyBear technicians serving Sacramento and the Bay Area carry Bosch-specific diagnostic tools and replacement parts on every service call. Call one if the machine is too heavy to tip safely (a tight laundry room or no helper), if the tub mounting brackets are cracked so the shock pins will not hold, or if vibration persists after new shocks, new springs, and re-leveling (a suspected bearing failure).

Need Professional Help?#

• Washing machine repair service
• Bosch appliance repair

Need help with this repair? Schedule a free diagnostic — same-day Bosch washer service across the Bay Area.