Bosch Dryer: stopping mid-cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Bosch dryer stops mid-cycle, you're likely left with damp clothes and an unfinished drying job. This issue can stem from overheating due to airflow restrictions, a faulty moisture sensor, or a malfunctioning door switch, disrupting your laundry routine.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Bosch Models

  • Bosch official troubleshooting acknowledges stoppages as a common issue and offers self-help support for common faults such as sensors and ventilation.

Possible Causes

Overheating due to airflow restriction

How to Identify: Dryer stops after a short run, warm to hot to touch, lint buildup visible in filter or vent

Part: Dryer vent, lint filter, exhaust duct

Faulty moisture sensor or cycling thermostat

How to Identify: Dryer shuts off while clothes are still damp, particularly in automatic dry modes, moisture sensor strips can be inspected

Part: Moisture sensor / cycling thermostat

Faulty door switch or latch

How to Identify: Dryer stops immediately when door is slightly ajar or latch feels loose, cycle resumes when door pressed firmly

Part: Door switch / latch assembly

Control board malfunction

How to Identify: Erratic stopping behavior without clear pattern and unresponsive controls

Part: Control board / electronic timer

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and dryer vent

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with hose, dryer vent cleaning brush
  1. Unplug the dryer from power.
  2. Remove and clean the lint filter thoroughly.
  3. Detach the dryer vent hose at the back and inspect for lint buildup.
  4. Use a vent cleaning brush to clear lint from the duct and vent exit.
  5. Reconnect all parts and run a short cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before working on the dryer

Inspect and clean moisture sensor strips

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: soft cloth, isopropyl alcohol
  1. Unplug the dryer and open the drum.
  2. Locate the moisture sensor strips near the drum opening.
  3. Wipe strips gently with warm soapy water or alcohol to remove residue.
  4. Dry completely and close dryer before powering it on.
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before accessing interior parts

Check door switch/latch operation

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver
  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Open the dryer front panel to access the door switch.
  3. Press the switch manually to check for smooth operation or visible damage.
  4. Replace if visibly faulty (part-specific).
⚠️ Safety First: Requires opening the dryer panel safely

Professional Repairs

Replace control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Dryer shuts off without any signs of airflow restriction and after cleaning vents
Electrical burning smell or visible component damage
Problems persist after DIY troubleshooting

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Airflow blockages and overheating shutdowns
    Frequency: after each cycle
  • Inspect and clean dryer vent: Lint buildup and mid-cycle stops due to overheating
    Frequency: every 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Dryer stopping mid-cycle?
Common causes include overheating from airflow issues, faulty moisture sensors, or door switch malfunctions.
How do I fix Bosch Dryer stopping mid-cycle myself?
Clean the lint filter and vent, inspect moisture sensor strips, and check door switch operation.
How much does it cost to fix stopping mid-cycle?
Replacing the control board can cost between $150 and $350.
When should I call a technician for stopping mid-cycle?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the control board may need replacement.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from completing the cycle
  • Overheating due to a clogged vent, causing the thermal fuse to trip
  • Malfunctioning control board that disrupts the cycle

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the door switch if necessary. To do this, unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and test the door switch with a multimeter for continuity. If it fails, replace it.

  2. Clean the dryer vent and lint filter thoroughly. Ensure that the vent is not blocked and the airflow is unobstructed. This can prevent overheating and tripping the thermal fuse.

  3. Check the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace the control board. This may require professional assistance if you're not experienced with electronics.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Bosch condenser dryer stops mid-run with DR code

Community Discussions

stops mid-run with DR code

replaced the pump assembly

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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