Bosch Refrigerator: loud clicking noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Are you hearing a loud clicking noise from your Bosch refrigerator? This rhythmic sound often occurs during compressor startup, cycling, or fan operation and can indicate underlying issues. While some clicks are normal, persistent or disruptive noises may need your attention. It's essential to diagnose the cause to ensure your fridge continues to operate efficiently.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Bosch Models

  • Bosch official support notes that some clicking can be normal (motors/switches/solenoids) and suggests checking evaporator fan; compressor issues may require professional diagnosis.

Possible Causes

Normal operation noises (relays or solenoids switching)

How to Identify: Clicking is intermittent, soft, coincides with normal compressor cycling or defrost control; cooling performance remains normal

Part: Internal switches/solenoid valves/defrost timer

Faulty compressor start relay or overload relay

How to Identify: Repeated clicking at regular short intervals, compressor failing to start, fridge not cooling properly

Part: Compressor start relay

Ice maker component cycling or malfunction

How to Identify: Clicking noise near ice maker area, often accompanied by ice production cycles issues or water flow sounds

Part: Ice maker drive motor/module

Loose parts or leveling issues

How to Identify: Noise changes when touching panels or adjusting leveling feet; fridge not stable

Part: Interior panels, drip trays, condenser coils housing

Faulty control board relays

How to Identify: Clicking with other irregular electrical behavior, unexplained component cycling

Part: Control board relays

DIY Solutions

Check normal operation and position fridge level

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: spirit level
  1. Ensure the fridge is level by adjusting front feet
  2. Listen to sound with door open and closed to determine if clicks are normal cycling during defrost or compressor on/off
  3. Observe if cooling performance is normal
⚠️ Safety First: No electrical work

Inspect and clean evaporator and condenser fan area

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, soft brush or vacuum
  1. Disconnect power to fridge
  2. Remove relevant panels to access condenser and evaporator fan areas
  3. Check for debris or ice blockage and clean coils and fan blades
  4. Reassemble and power on to test noise
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug fridge before work

Test and replace compressor start relay

Advanced 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Unplug fridge and pull unit from wall
  2. Locate compressor and start relay at compressor base
  3. Remove and test relay with multimeter or shake to detect rattling
  4. Replace with compatible start relay if faulty
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before service

Professional Repairs

Replace Evaporator or Condenser Fan Motor or Blades

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

Replace Compressor Start Relay or Compressor Service

Estimated Cost: $150 - $1200

Control Board Replacement

Estimated Cost: $300 - $600

When to Call a Professional

Clicking is persistent and loud, fridge not maintaining temperature
Clicking accompanied by cooling failure or compressor not starting
Failed fan motor or inaccessible component fault

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Overheating, fan strain, and associated noise
    Frequency: 6-12 months
  • Check and keep fridge level: Vibration noise due to uneven positioning
    Frequency: monthly initially then quarterly
  • Inspect and clear ice buildup: Fan obstruction and abnormal noises
    Frequency: as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Refrigerator loud clicking noise?
The noise may be due to normal relays switching, a faulty compressor start relay, or ice maker cycling.
How do I fix Bosch Refrigerator loud clicking noise myself?
Check if the fridge is level, inspect fan areas for blockages, or test the compressor start relay for issues.
How much does it cost to fix loud clicking noise?
Repair costs vary; expect $150 - $1200 depending on the needed parts and service.
When should I call a technician for loud clicking noise?
If the noise is frequent or disruptive and DIY solutions don't resolve it, contact a professional for help.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty ice maker assembly causing mechanical failure
  • Ice blockage in the ice maker or ice chute
  • Worn out or damaged compressor relay

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the ice maker assembly. Disconnect the refrigerator, remove the ice maker cover, and replace the entire assembly if it shows signs of damage or malfunction.

  2. Clear any ice blockage by removing the ice maker and checking for ice buildup. Use warm water to melt any stubborn ice if necessary.

  3. Test and replace the compressor relay if faulty. Access the relay on the compressor, use a multimeter to check for continuity, and replace if defective.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. New Bosch fridge ice maker noise

Community Discussions

loud clicking noise during ice making process

Replacement of the ice maker part resolved the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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