Bosch Washer Error Code F42: How to Fix It
Hard 2-3 hours Critical Severity
Verified June 2026
- Error Code
- F42
- Brand
- Bosch
- Product Type
- washer
- Severity
- Critical
- DIY Difficulty
- Hard
- Estimated Fix Time
- 2-3 hours
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Tools You'll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Multimeter
- Socket wrench set
How to Fix Error Code F42
-
Power Reset the Washer
Always unplug the washer before performing any troubleshooting steps to avoid electrical shock. -
Check for Unbalanced Load
-
Access the Motor and Tachometer
Ensure the washer is unplugged and water supply is turned off before removing panels. -
Inspect Tachometer Connections
-
Test Tachometer with Multimeter
-
Check Motor Carbon Brushes
Handle the motor carefully and note wire positions before disconnecting. -
Test Control Board
Control board testing requires advanced electronics knowledge and should be done by a qualified technician.
Parts You May Need
Tachometer sensor
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Motor control board
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Motor carbon brushes
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Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Tachometer sensor
Check Price on Amazon
Motor control board
Check Price on Amazon
Motor carbon brushes
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional
Call a professional if the tachometer tests good but the error persists, if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, or if the control board needs replacement. Motor control board diagnosis requires specialized knowledge and equipment.Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Bosch washer error code F42?
F42 occurs when the motor spins too fast, usually due to a faulty tachometer (speed sensor), damaged motor control board, or worn motor components that affect speed regulation.
Can I still use my Bosch washer with F42 error?
No, you should not use the washer with F42 error. The motor running too fast can cause severe damage to the motor, transmission, and other mechanical components.
How much does it cost to fix Bosch washer F42 error?
Repair costs vary: tachometer replacement costs $50-100, motor control board replacement costs $200-400, and full motor replacement costs $300-600, plus labor if professionally installed.
Is Bosch washer F42 error covered under warranty?
F42 error is typically covered under Bosch warranty if the washer is still within the warranty period, as it usually indicates a manufacturing defect in the control system or motor components.
How do I prevent F42 error from happening again?
Prevent F42 by avoiding overloading the washer, using proper detergent amounts, keeping the washer level, and scheduling regular maintenance to check motor components and connections.