How to Replace a Bosch Dishwasher Door Lock Assembly

If your dishwasher won’t start its cycle, one likely cause is the door lock assembly. If the sensor doesn’t register that the door is shut, the machine can’t start. Order replacement part 3278628 for your Bosch dishwasher and follow these steps.

1. Unplug the appliance

Every appliance repair should start by removing the power source or flipping the circuit breaker. This repair will involve going into the door near the circuitry, so this step is essential.

2. Remove the interior screws that hold the outer panel.

Open the dishwasher door, and you’ll see six screws bordering the inside of the door. Removing them will loosen the exterior panel (the front of the door).

3. Remove the exterior panel.

The exterior panel will fit free once the screws are removed. Set the panel aside. Lower the remainder of the door on the hinges so you can access the top of the dishwasher’s interior.

4. Expose lock cover plate and remove the panel.

Remove the mounting screws that attach the top of the machine to the underside of the counter. Then pull the body of the machine out carefully just a few inches. The best procedure is to hold the door close to the hinge and shift the machine side to side so it pulls forward. This will give you access to the lock cover plate at the top of the machine.

5. Remove the door latch mechanism attached to the body of the dishwasher.

Unscrew the cover panel and remove it. Unscrew the door latch mechanism. It will usually be secured in place by one screw on the left. Then pull it free and set the part aside.

6. Remove the sensor attached to the interior door.

Door latches are really two different parts: the door latch mechanism and the sensor. Remove the sensor by holding the dishwasher door slightly ajar and removing the two screws holding the sensor in place at the top. These will be immediately visible near the latch. The door lock will fall free. Remove the connecting wire harness and set the sensor aside.

7. Insert and secure the two new halves.

Working backward, attach the sensor to the wire harness and resecure the new sensor with the two screws. Then snap the door latch, tighten the screw, and replace the cover.