F21

Motor Error (Drum Not Turning)

Home Appliance Error Codes Bosch Washing machines

Can you still use it? With care until repaired

Who can fix it? Needs a technician

Typical repair time 45 minutes – 3 hours

Typical cost SAR 150 to 1,500

What it means

This code mostly appears on older Bosch front-load washing machines that use F codes, and means the control board told the motor to turn the drum but did not detect correct rotation. The cause can be an overload or a stuck object, worn carbon brushes, or a fault in the motor, speed sensor or board. The same number can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Bosch front-load washing machines; newer models show E codes, older ones (e.g. Maxx, Logixx) F codes.

Symptoms4

The machine fills with water but the drum does not turn, then F21 shows.
The drum turns slowly or in jerks, then the program stops.
Clicking or rubbing noise from behind the drum.
A faint burning smell or visible sparking in advanced brush wear.

Possible causes7

An overload or heavy wet items stopping the drum from turning.
A small object (bra wire or coin) stuck between the drum and the outer tub.
Worn carbon brushes on a brushed motor.
A faulty speed (tacho) sensor or motor connection.
A faulty motor.
A fault in the motor control circuit on the board.
Transit bolts left in a new machine (rare but known right after installation).

How to diagnose5

Unplug the machine and drain any remaining water through the pump filter.
Take out some of the laundry and turn the drum by hand: it should spin smoothly with no rubbing or noise.
On a new machine, confirm the rear transit bolts were removed as in the installation guide.
A technician unplugs the machine before opening it, then checks brush length, the motor connection and the speed sensor, comparing readings with the manufacturer specification.
If the motor and its parts are fine, the technician checks the motor circuit on the board.

How to fix6

Reduce and redistribute the load, then restart the program.
Have the technician remove the object stuck between the drum and tub.
Replace the carbon brushes as a pair if worn.
Repair the motor connection or replace the speed sensor.
Replace the motor or the board if either is confirmed faulty.
Run an empty spin program and confirm the drum turns at all speeds without the code returning.

Repair cost

0–200

200–600

600–1,500

1,500+

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is low for an overload or brushes, and much higher when a new motor or control board is needed.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions

Can a heavy load alone cause this?

Yes, especially with blankets and large towels. Reduce and spread the load and restart; if the code returns with a normal load, the cause is mechanical or electrical.

How do I know the carbon brushes are the cause?

Signs include weak or jerky rotation and sometimes a burning smell or sparks, but only a technician can confirm it by measuring them with the machine unplugged and opened.

Should I keep using the washer if the code only appears sometimes?

It is not recommended. Repeated attempts with worn brushes or a stuck object can damage the motor or the drum, so have it checked early.

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This guide is for information only and does not replace an inspection by a qualified technician. If the fault involves brakes, steering, engine temperature, electrics or refrigerant, do not attempt the repair yourself.

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