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11 Steps to Fixing Bosch Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding!

As good as Bosch dishwashers are, nothing frustrates more than non-responsive buttons. But as frustrating as it is, the issue is fixable if you only knew, ‘why are your Bosch dishwasher buttons not responding to touch?’

In most cases, Bosch dishwasher buttons become non-responsive because of lack of power, Child Lock, unlatched door, dirt obstruction, clogged trap/filter, wiring fault, or faulty control panel. But still, the button itself or the control could be defective

Once you consider those nine possibilities, you’ll be able to determine why your dishwasher buttons are not working and troubleshoot them. Later, we’ll look at specific buttons without going through all the possibilities. 

But before then, we’ll discuss how you can reset your dishwasher as you may fix the button doing that. 

Bosch dishwasher buttons not responding

In a rush? Below are the nine issues most likely to result in non-responsive Bosch dishwasher buttons and their troubleshooting

9 Reasons My Bosch Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding Plus Quick Troubleshooting Guide

Likely Cause Troubleshooting
1.Lack of Power Fix any power issue to ensure your dishwasher has power (it’s able to turn on)
2.Child Lock Press Child Lock for about 4 seconds to disable it
3.Unlatched Door Remove any obstructions from the dishwasher door and tightly close it
4.Dirt Obstruction Remove dirt from under a stuck button and around it to unstuck it 
5.Clogged Trap/Filter Clear any debris or dirt clog from the trap/filter system
6.Wiring Fault Tighten any loose wires and replace damaged ones. Call an electrician if you can’t fix the wiring 
7.Faulty Control Panel Replace the control panel
8.Faulty Button Replace the control console board, which features a set of new buttons
9.Bad Control Board Replace the dishwasher’s main control board

How to Troubleshoot Bosch Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding Step-By-Step?

Below are the 11 essential steps for troubleshooting your non-responsive Bosch dishwasher buttons. Note that steps 2 and 11 touch on the dishwasher reset, not the issues.

The reasons Bosch dishwasher buttons don’t work are explained in steps 3 to 8 and step 11. Thus, you may fix the issue at any stage, including step 1. It all depends on the dishwasher problem. Let’s get started!

Step 1 (Check for lack of power)

Your Bosch dishwasher is dependent on electricity to run. If there’s no power supply, the dishwasher buttons will be non-responsive, and the dishwasher won’t start.

And as far as lack of power goes, consider these issues:

  • Is there a power outage? – If the answer is yes, then that’s the reason the dishwasher won’t power on. But if there’s no power loss, consider the other questions. 
  • Is the dishwasher plugged in firmly and turned on? – Ensure you plug in the dishwasher and turn it on if that’s not the case. You’ll know if your dishwasher has power if it indicates. 
  • Is the power outlet working? – Your Bosch dishwasher won’t turn on if the wall outlet is not working. The easiest way to tell is to try and plug in another home appliance to see if it works. If it’s not, replace it or call an electrician. 
  • Could the power cable be faulty?  – Sometimes, the dishwasher power cord could be the problem. If the cord is damaged, the dishwasher won’t start. Check it with a multimeter to determine if it has continuity. If it doesn’t, replace it. 

Step 2 (Reset the dishwasher)

Before getting into other probable causes, consider resetting the dishwasher. There is always the chance that the buttons will start working after that. 

So, why not give it a try? Overall, you can do the ‘Soft Reset’ first and if it doesn’t work, perform the ‘Hard Reset.’ 

Soft Reset

The Soft Reset involves these steps:

  • Switch off, then on the Bosch dishwasher
  • Hold down the start/reset button until the appliance starts flashing 0:01
  • Shut the dishwasher door and run it for 60 seconds
  • Open the dishwasher door and switch off the dishwasher
  • Wait for a few seconds and turn on the dishwasher again
  • Try picking a cycle and running it 

Hard Reset

If the Soft Reset doesn’t work, consider a Hard Reset. It completely resets the dishwasher, and it involves the following quick steps. 

  • Power off the dishwasher from its circuit breaker 
  • Wait for 5 minutes and power the dishwasher on 
  • Run a cycle to see if the buttons are working 

If the buttons are still non-responsive, proceed to step 2 and the subsequent steps if necessary. But once you can fix the buttons by resetting them, you don’t have to go any further.

Step 3 (Disable Child Lock)

The next thing to check is Child Lock. This safety feature’s job is to prevent children from operating the dishwasher. It locks the buttons, which means they won’t work until it’s off.

So, how do you turn it off? Press the Child Lock pad (or CL) for about 4 seconds or until the CL sign disappears from the display. 

Step 4 (Close the dishwasher)

Is the dishwasher door open or not fully latched? If yes, that’s the reason the dishwasher buttons won’t work.

So, try and close the door tightly. If it works, then the start button is likely to work. But if it won’t, inspect it for any obstruction and remove it. 

My Bosch dishwasher buttons not responding

Step 5 (Unstuck any stuck button/remove any dirt obstruction underneath)

The next step is to consider if you’ve any stuck buttons. If there is, then inspect them for possible dirt obstruction underneath. 

The dirt could be holding and preventing it from responding to the pressing. Once that’s the case, try to wipe off the dirt from beneath and around the stuck button. 

Step 6 (Unclog the trap/filter system)

If the non-responsive button is flashing, that’s a sign that the trap/filter system is dirt clogged. You should inspect the trap/filter system for dirt clogging and clean it in such a case.

Remove the dislodged debris, and that will get the affected buttons working. 

Step 7 (Check for any wiring fault)

If there’s a problem with the control panel’s wiring, the dishwasher buttons won’t work. The wiring is essential in relaying information across the control panel and the dishwasher control board.

If the wires are damaged or defective, the control panel won’t receive any message, which means the buttons won’t respond. 

If there are any loose cables, tighten them and if they are damaged, replace them. But if the job is too technical for you, call a qualified technician. 

Step 8 (Replace the control panel if it’s faulty)

Sometimes the buttons won’t work because of a defective control panel. If the dishwasher control panel is wrong, the buttons won’t work.

In such a case, you’ll need to replace the control panel. You may need to replace both the control panel and the touchpad as they are mostly sold as a unit. 

Overall, an expert technician can help determine if the control panel and touchpad are faulty. 

Step 9 (Change the faulty buttons)

The dishwasher buttons may not be responding because they are already faulty. Replace them in such a case, which means getting a new control console board. 

This replacement and even the diagnosis can be too technical for a DIYer. So, you may need to contact an expert. 

Bosch dishwasher buttons stuck

Step 10 (Get a new control board)

As far as faulty dishwasher components are concerned, the control board is the last dice to cast. Consider replacing it after every other fix fails. But again, an expert technician can help you determine if the control board is faulty. 

Step 11 (Reset the dishwasher again)

I remember mentioning the reset in step 2. It’s also important to reset after performing any of the above fixes. So, reset your dishwasher again before trying to operate it. 

Bosch Dishwasher Buttons Stuck

If you have a stuck dishwasher button, there’s likely dirt beneath and around it. So, inspect the stuck button for dirt obstruction and try cleaning it. 

After that, reset the dishwasher (using the steps shared earlier) before trying to operate the buttons. 

Bosch Dishwasher Power Button Not Working (Bosch Dishwasher On/Off Button Not Working)

The Bosch dishwasher’s power or on/off switch may become non-responsive during a power failure which you can tell if the dishwasher won’t power on.

According to Bosch, if the power is not the issue, then Child Lock could be active. And so, you should disengage it. Also, check the dishwasher’s door and try closing it if it’s open.

And if none of the three issues is the culprit, then the power button itself could be faulty. So, you’ll need to inspect it for damage and replace it. 

Bosch Dishwasher Reset Button Doesn’t Work

There are different reasons why the Bosch dishwasher reset button won’t work. The most likely are settings like Child Lock, Sleep Mode, and Delay Start. So check if any of these settings are active and disable them. 

If there are none, the issue could be faulty buttons or a defective control panel. However, before you can contemplate replacing them, try resetting the dishwasher first. You can do a Soft/Hard Reset. 

Bosch Dishwasher Active Button Flashing

If the Bosch dishwasher active button is flashing, it’s primarily due to a dirty trap/ filter system. So, you need to inspect the system for filthiness, especially debris, and clean it. 

Don’t forget to check the door. If it’s not fully latched, the active button may flash too. So, check it and try shutting it if it’s open. 

Bosch dishwasher active button flashing

People Also Ask 

1. Do Bosch Dishwashers Have a Reset Button?

Yes, Bosch dishwashers have a reset button which may come in other names, such as start or cancel. You’ll access the button once you open the door. 

2. Where Is Reset Button On Bosch Dishwasher?

The reset button, sometimes known as the start or cancel button, is mainly located on the inside part of the dishwasher door on a Bosch dishwasher. 

3. How Do I Reset the Control Panel On My Bosch Dishwasher? 

You can easily reset the Bosch dishwasher control panel by pressing the start/reset button for about 5 seconds. Other older models, however, have the cancel button instead of the reset or start button. 

What parts may need to be replaced if there is an issue with the wire harness?

When troubleshooting issues with the wire harness in a Bosch dishwasher, it may be necessary to replace certain parts. One such part is the dishwater wire harness itself, which is specifically designed for Bosch dishwashers. To find the required part specific to your dishwasher model, you can enter the model number and search for it. If you are unsure about your model number, assistance can be provided to help you locate it. In addition to the wire harness, there may be other parts that might need replacement depending on the specific problem encountered. These parts can vary and it is recommended to consult a professional or refer to the user manual for further guidance.

What parts may need to be replaced if the user control and display board is faulty?

If the user control and display board in your Bosch dishwasher is faulty, there are a few parts that may need to be replaced. These parts are specific to your dishwasher model. To find the required part(s), you can enter your model number in the search field. If you’re unsure about your model number, we can assist you in finding it. Once you have the necessary part(s), you can shop for all Bosch dishwasher user control and display board parts to ensure proper functionality of your appliance.

What parts may need to be replaced if the control panel is faulty?

Can the touchpad be replaced individually, or do both the touchpad and control panel need to be replaced together?
Excerpt_Theirs states that some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel, while others require purchasing them together. This means that depending on the manufacturer, it may be possible to replace the touchpad individually or both the touchpad and control panel together.

What parts may need to be replaced if the control panel is faulty?
If the control panel is faulty, both the touchpad and control panel might need to be replaced.

“If you encounter an issue where the buttons on your dishwasher control panel are unresponsive, this may be due to a defective control panel. In such cases, replacing the control panel becomes necessary. It is important to note that the control panel and touchpad are often sold together as a unit, as they are intricately connected.

However, it’s worth mentioning that different manufacturers may have varying requirements. Some manufacturers offer the option to purchase the touchpad and control panel separately, while others may only sell them as a combined unit. In situations where the touchpad cannot be replaced individually, it is recommended to replace both the touchpad and control panel simultaneously.

To ensure accurate diagnosis and proper replacement, seeking assistance from an expert technician is advisable. Their expertise can help determine the specific parts that need replacing, be it just the control panel or both the control panel and touchpad, as they work in conjunction to facilitate the functionality of the dishwasher. By consulting a professional, you can ensure a thorough assessment and effective resolution to the issue at hand.”

What could be the issue if the door latch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from starting?

What should I do if the switch or latch assembly does not have continuity?
If the switch or latch assembly does not have continuity when tested with a multimeter, it indicates a faulty switch or latch assembly. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the switch or latch assembly with a new one. This will ensure that the latch mechanism is working correctly and allows the dishwasher buttons to function properly.

How can I test the micro switch inside the door latch for electrical continuity?
To test the micro switch inside the door latch for electrical continuity, you can use a multimeter. Set the multimeter to measure continuity or resistance and touch the probes to the terminals of the micro switch. If the switch is functioning properly, it should show continuity or a low resistance value.

How can I inspect the door latch for any damage?
To inspect the door latch for any damage, you can visually examine it for any visible signs of wear, breakage, or misalignment. Look for any cracks or missing pieces that may indicate a faulty latch. Additionally, check if the latch moves smoothly and securely when the door is closed.

What could be the issue if the door latch is malfunctioning and preventing a wash cycle from starting?
If the door latch is malfunctioning, it can prevent a wash cycle from starting on your dishwasher. This could be due to damage to the latch mechanism or other components that are preventing the latch from properly engaging or signaling to the dishwasher that the door is securely closed.

“As frustrating as it is, the issue is fixable if you only knew why your Bosch dishwasher buttons are not responding to touch. In most cases, Bosch dishwasher buttons become non-responsive because of lack of power, Child Lock, unlatched door, dirt obstruction, clogged trap/filter, wiring fault, or faulty control panel. However, it is also important to consider the possibility of a malfunctioning door latch, which can prevent a wash cycle from starting.

If the dishwasher buttons are not working and you suspect a malfunctioning door latch, here’s what you can do. Firstly, inspect the door latch for any visible damage. Look for any signs of wear, breakage, or misalignment. If you notice any issues, it is likely that the latch needs to be replaced.

To further troubleshoot the door latch, you can use a multimeter to test the micro switch inside the latch for electrical continuity. This will help determine if the switch is functioning properly. If the switch does not have continuity, it indicates a fault, and both the switch and latch assembly should be replaced.

By considering these nine possibilities – lack of power, Child Lock, unlatched door, dirt obstruction, clogged trap/filter, wiring fault, faulty control panel, damaged latch, or faulty switch – you will be equipped to identify the root cause of the unresponsive dishwasher buttons. By following the specific steps mentioned earlier, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue, ensuring your dishwasher operates smoothly once again.”

In this new passage, the exact text of Your article is retained, maintaining the original voice and tone. However, it is expanded to include the thoroughness of Their article by including the specific steps to inspect and test the door latch, as well as the recommendation to replace the latch assembly if needed. This combination provides a more comprehensive answer to the question at hand.

How can I troubleshoot if the touchpad buttons are not responding correctly?

How can I determine if the touchpad and control panel need to be replaced?
If the dishwasher display is functioning correctly but the touchpad buttons are not responding as expected, it is likely that the touchpad and control panel are faulty and require replacement. However, it is recommended to consult a professional technician or contact the manufacturer for an accurate diagnosis before proceeding with replacement.

Are there any specific instructions for replacing the touchpad and control panel?
Specific instructions for replacing the touchpad and control panel may vary depending on the dishwasher model and manufacturer. It is advisable to refer to the dishwasher’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for detailed instructions on the replacement process.

What should I do if I cannot replace the touchpad individually?
If the touchpad cannot be replaced separately, it is recommended to replace both the touchpad and control panel together. Some manufacturers require purchasing them as a combined unit.

Can the touchpad be replaced separately from the control panel?
Yes, some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel, allowing for individual replacement if needed.

How can I troubleshoot if the touchpad buttons are not responding correctly?
To troubleshoot non-responsive touchpad buttons, first, ensure that the display is working. If the display is functioning properly but some of the buttons don’t respond correctly, it is likely that the touchpad and control panel need to be replaced.

Below are the 11 essential steps for troubleshooting your non-responsive Bosch dishwasher buttons. Note that steps 2 and 11 touch on the dishwasher reset, not the issues.

The reasons Bosch dishwasher buttons don’t work are explained in steps 3 to 8 and step 11. Thus, you may fix the issue at any stage, including step 1. It all depends on the dishwasher problem. Let’s get started!

Step 1 (Check for lack of power)
Your Bosch dishwasher is dependent on electricity to run. If there’s no power supply, the dishwasher buttons will be non-responsive, and the dishwasher won’t start.

And as far as lack of power goes, consider these issues:

Is there a power outage? If the answer is yes, then that’s the reason the dishwasher won’t power on. But if there’s no power loss, consider the other questions.

Is the dishwasher plugged in firmly and turned on? Ensure you plug in the dishwasher and turn it on if that’s not the case. You’ll know if your dishwasher has power if it indicates.

Is the power outlet working? Your Bosch dishwasher won’t turn on if the wall outlet is not working. The easiest way to tell is to try and plug in another home appliance to see if it works. If it’s not, replace it or call an electrician.

Could the power cable be faulty? Sometimes, the dishwasher power cord could be the problem. If the cord is damaged, the dishwasher won’t start. Check it with a multimeter to determine if it has continuity. If it doesn’t, replace it.

Step 2 (Reset the dishwasher)
If none of the power-related issues are present, try resetting the dishwasher. This can be done by turning off the dishwasher at the main power source or by pressing the reset button, if available.

Step 3 (Check for a locked control panel)
A locked control panel can prevent the buttons from responding. Look for a control panel lock button or option and make sure it is not engaged.

Step 4 (Clean the touchpad and control panel)
Dirt, grime, or residue on the touchpad and control panel can interfere with button responsiveness. Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the surface and ensure there are no obstructions.

Step 5 (Check for error codes)
Some Bosch dishwashers display error codes when there is a problem. Refer to the dishwasher’s manual or manufacturer’s website to identify any error codes and follow the recommended troubleshooting steps.

Step 6 (Inspect the touchpad for physical damage)
Examine the touchpad for any visible signs of physical damage, such as cracks or broken buttons. If damage is found, the touchpad may need to be replaced.

Step 7 (Inspect the control panel for physical damage)
Similarly, inspect the control panel for any physical damage. If there are any issues, the control panel may need to be replaced.

Step 8 (Check the ribbon cable connection)
The touchpad and control panel are connected by a ribbon cable. Ensure that the ribbon cable is securely connected and not damaged. If necessary, disconnect and reconnect the cable.

Step 9 (Test the touchpad with a multimeter)
If you have access to a multimeter, you can test the touchpad for continuity. Follow the instructions in the dishwasher’s manual or seek guidance from a professional technician.

Step 10 (Consult a professional technician)
If you have followed all the steps and the buttons are still not responding correctly, it may be best to consult a professional technician. They will have the expertise to diagnose and repair any complex issues with the touchpad or control panel.

Step 11 (Reset the dishwasher again)
As a final troubleshooting step, try resetting the dishwasher once more by turning off the power or pressing the reset button. This can sometimes resolve lingering issues with button responsiveness.

By following these steps, you can thoroughly troubleshoot and identify the cause of non-responsive Bosch dishwasher buttons, and take appropriate actions to resolve the issue.

How can I determine if the touchpad or control panel needs to be replaced?

What is the recommended approach if all other fixes fail and the control board is suspected to be faulty?
If all other attempted fixes fail and the control board is suspected to be faulty, it is advisable to consider replacing the control board. However, it is recommended to seek the assistance of an expert technician who can properly evaluate the situation and confirm if the control board is indeed the cause of the issue. Their expertise and knowledge will help determine the most appropriate course of action, ensuring the problem is resolved effectively.

How can an expert technician help determine if the control board is faulty?
An expert technician can assist in determining if the control board is faulty by conducting a thorough inspection of the dishwasher’s components. They have the expertise to diagnose the issue accurately and can utilize specialized tools to test the functionality of the control board. By examining the control board and conducting various tests, an expert technician can provide a definitive answer on whether the control board needs replacement or if there are other potential causes for the malfunction.

What should I do if some buttons on the touchpad respond correctly while others do not?
If some buttons on the touchpad respond correctly while others do not, it indicates a potential issue with either the touchpad or control panel. In such cases, it is likely that either the touchpad or control panel needs to be replaced. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine if the touchpad can be replaced individually or if both the touchpad and control panel need to be replaced together.

What should I do if the buttons on the touchpad don’t respond correctly?
If the buttons on the touchpad do not respond correctly, it is advisable to replace the touchpad and control panel. Some manufacturers offer the option to replace the touchpad separately, while others require purchasing both components together. If the touchpad cannot be replaced individually, it is recommended to replace both the touchpad and control panel. This will ensure proper functionality of the buttons.

How can I determine if the touchpad or control panel needs to be replaced?
To determine if the touchpad or control panel needs to be replaced, first, ensure that the dishwasher display is working. If the display is functioning properly but some of the buttons on the touchpad do not respond correctly, it is likely that the touchpad and control panel need to be replaced. Some manufacturers sell the touchpad separately from the control panel, while others require purchasing them together. If the touchpad cannot be replaced individually, it is recommended to replace both the touchpad and control panel.

“When troubleshooting a faulty dishwasher, it’s important to consider all possible causes before resorting to replacing components. The control board, in particular, should be considered as a last resort after exhausting other potential fixes. However, determining if the control board is truly faulty is a task best left to an expert technician who can accurately diagnose the issue.

To determine whether the touchpad or control panel needs replacement, it is crucial to follow a step-by-step approach. Begin by ensuring that the dishwasher display is functioning properly. If the display is operational but certain buttons do not respond correctly, it is an indication that the touchpad and control panel may need to be replaced.

It is worth noting that different manufacturers have varying replacement options. Some offer the touchpad and control panel as separate units, while others require them to be purchased together. If individual replacement of the touchpad is not possible, it is recommended to replace both the touchpad and control panel as a unit.

By carefully assessing the response of the dishwasher buttons and considering the condition of the display, one can determine if either the touchpad or control panel requires replacement. However, it is always advisable to seek assistance from a qualified technician who can provide a definitive diagnosis and guide you through the replacement process if necessary.”

What could be the possible reason for the Bosch dishwasher buttons not working?

In most cases, Bosch dishwasher buttons become non-responsive due to a variety of potential reasons. Lack of power, Child Lock, unlatched door, dirt obstruction, clogged trap/filter, wiring fault, or a faulty control panel can all contribute to this issue. However, it’s important to consider each possibility to accurately troubleshoot and identify the root cause of the problem.

To begin with, ensure that your dishwasher is receiving power. Check if it is properly plugged in and that there are no issues with the electrical outlet. Additionally, verify if the Child Lock feature is engaged, as this can prevent the buttons from functioning. Make sure the door is securely latched, as an unlatched door can also hinder the start of a wash cycle.

Dirt or debris obstruction can also affect the responsiveness of the buttons. It is recommended to clean the buttons and the surrounding area to remove any accumulated grime or residue. Furthermore, a clogged trap or filter can impede the proper functioning of the dishwasher. Regularly clean and maintain these components to prevent blockages and ensure optimal performance.

In some cases, a wiring fault may be the culprit. Inspect the wiring connections to ensure they are intact and properly connected. If any damage or loose connections are found, they should be repaired or replaced by a qualified professional.

Lastly, a faulty control panel could be the source of the problem. If the buttons are not responding despite addressing the previous possibilities, it is recommended to have the control panel checked and potentially replaced by a technician.

By considering these nine potential causes for non-responsive dishwasher buttons, you will be able to thoroughly troubleshoot the issue and identify the specific reason for your Bosch dishwasher’s button malfunction.<

Closing Thought on Bosch Dishwasher Buttons Not Responding:

In summary, there are different explanations for Bosch dishwasher buttons not responding. The issue could be a lack of power, a locked control panel, an open door, or a stuck button. 

If that’s not it, it could be a dirty trap/filter, a wiring issue, or a faulty control panel, button, or control board. Above is the 11-step guide to getting the buttons back working.