mypros+
Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code 3-1-2

Ice maker

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

Ice maker: Icemaker motor faulty.

First step from the service manual

Switch appliance off and on; if fault persists, replace ice maker (motor not replaceable).

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for 3-1-2.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What 3-1-2 means on a Bosch refrigerator

The 3-1-2 error code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates a fault with the ice maker motor. This motor drives the ice ejection mechanism, rotating the harvesting arms or auger that pushes formed ice cubes out of the mold and into the storage bin. When the control board detects that the motor is not operating within expected parameters, whether due to a failure to start, stalling under load, or drawing incorrect current, it logs this fault code and halts ice production to prevent further mechanical damage.

The ice maker in Bosch refrigerators is designed as an integrated assembly. The motor is not a separately serviceable component within the unit, which means standard repair procedure does not involve isolating and replacing the motor alone. Instead, the entire ice maker assembly must be replaced if the fault persists after a power cycle. Common root causes include a seized motor due to wear or ice jamming the mechanism, internal winding failure causing the motor to draw no current or excessive current, or a control fault within the ice maker module itself that produces false motor fault signals.

Diagnosis begins with a full power cycle, switching the appliance off and back on, to rule out a temporary control board communication error or a transient motor stall event. If the 3-1-2 code returns after the reset, the ice maker assembly is considered faulty and replacement is the indicated corrective action. There is no recommended procedure to test or repair the motor separately from the ice maker module.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 3-1-2

  1. 01

    Seized ice maker motor

    Part replacement

    Over time, wear or an ice jam can cause the motor mechanism to seize, preventing it from rotating. This is the most frequent physical cause of a motor fault signal and will not resolve with a power cycle.

  2. 02

    Internal motor winding failure

    Part replacement

    The motor windings can fail due to age or heat exposure, resulting in the motor drawing no current or drawing excessive current. The control board interprets either condition as a motor fault and triggers the 3-1-2 code.

  3. 03

    Ice jam blocking the ejection mechanism

    Wiring / connection

    A buildup of ice around the ejection arms or auger can stall the motor under load, causing a temporary fault. Performing a power cycle and allowing any ice obstruction to clear may resolve this without parts.

  4. 04

    Faulty ice maker control module

    Part replacement

    An internal failure in the ice maker's onboard control circuitry can generate a false motor fault signal even when the motor itself has not failed mechanically. Because the module and motor are integrated into one assembly, the entire unit requires replacement.

  5. 05

    Transient control board communication error

    Wiring / connection

    Occasionally, a one-time signal error between the main control board and the ice maker can trigger the fault code without an actual motor failure. A power cycle is the first step to rule this out before proceeding with parts replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 3-1-2

What does 3-1-2 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
The 3-1-2 code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates that the ice maker motor has been detected as faulty. The control board monitors the motor that drives the ice ejection mechanism, and when the motor fails to operate correctly, ice production stops and this code is logged. The first step is to power cycle the appliance. If the code returns, the ice maker assembly requires replacement.
Can I fix the 3-1-2 error on my Bosch refrigerator myself?
You can perform the first diagnostic step yourself by switching the refrigerator off and back on to see if the fault clears. If the 3-1-2 code returns after the reset, the ice maker assembly needs to be replaced. Because the motor is not separately replaceable, the repair involves swapping out the entire ice maker unit, which is a task many experienced DIYers can handle with basic tools and the correct replacement part.
Will resetting my Bosch refrigerator clear the 3-1-2 error code?
A power cycle reset is the recommended first step and may clear the code if the fault was caused by a transient motor stall or a temporary communication error. However, if the ice maker motor has failed mechanically or electrically, the 3-1-2 code will return after the reset. In that case, resetting alone will not resolve the underlying problem.
Is it safe to keep using my Bosch refrigerator while showing the 3-1-2 error?
The 3-1-2 fault is specific to the ice maker motor and does not affect the refrigerator's primary cooling or freezing functions. Your food will remain safely stored while this code is active. However, the ice maker will not produce ice until the fault is resolved, so you should plan to address the repair if ice production is needed.
How much does it cost to fix a Bosch refrigerator with a 3-1-2 error code?
Because the ice maker motor is not individually replaceable, the cost centers on a complete ice maker assembly replacement. Parts costs for a Bosch ice maker assembly typically range from around 100 dollars to over 250 dollars depending on the specific model. Professional labor to install the assembly generally adds another 75 to 200 dollars, bringing total repair costs to a range of roughly 175 to 450 dollars or more depending on your location and service provider.

Related Bosch refrigerator codes

All Bosch refrigerator codes
View all 209 Bosch refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass