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Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code 3-1-6

Ice maker

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

Ice maker: Crusher motor faulty.

First step from the service manual

Check crusher motor; if problematic replace motor; if motor OK replace icemaker.

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

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What 3-1-6 means on a Bosch refrigerator

Error code 3-1-6 on a Bosch refrigerator indicates a fault detected in the ice maker's crusher motor. The crusher motor is responsible for breaking whole ice cubes into crushed ice when that dispensing mode is selected. When the control board sends a signal to the crusher motor and does not receive the expected response, whether that is proper current draw, rotation feedback, or completion of the crush cycle within an expected timeframe, it logs this fault code and disables the affected ice dispenser function.

The most likely causes fall into two categories: a mechanically or electrically failed crusher motor, or a broader ice maker assembly failure. The crusher motor can fail due to worn brushes, a seized armature, a burned winding, or a failed internal capacitor. These failures typically present as no movement, intermittent operation, or abnormal noise during crush mode. Ice jams or foreign material in the crusher mechanism can also stall the motor repeatedly until it fails or triggers the fault.

Diagnosis begins with inspecting and testing the crusher motor directly. If the motor shows signs of failure under testing, it should be replaced. If the motor tests within acceptable parameters and receives proper voltage from the control board but the fault persists, the ice maker assembly itself is the likely culprit and should be replaced as a unit. Always clear any ice jams from the crusher mechanism before condemning electrical components.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 3-1-6

  1. 01

    Failed crusher motor

    Part replacement

    The crusher motor itself may have a burned winding, seized armature, or worn internal components preventing it from operating. This is the most common cause and is confirmed by testing the motor directly for proper function and current draw.

  2. 02

    Ice jam in the crusher mechanism

    Wiring / connection

    A buildup of ice or a foreign object lodged in the crusher can stall or overload the motor, causing the fault to trigger. Inspect the crusher area for blockages and clear any jams before testing the motor.

  3. 03

    Open or damaged wiring to the crusher motor

    Wiring / connection

    Broken, pinched, or corroded wires in the harness connecting the control board to the crusher motor can interrupt the circuit and mimic a motor failure. Visually inspect the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion.

  4. 04

    Faulty ice maker assembly

    Part replacement

    If the crusher motor tests acceptable but the fault persists, the ice maker assembly may have an internal control or component failure. In this case, replacing the full ice maker assembly is the recommended repair.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 3-1-6

What does 3-1-6 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
Error code 3-1-6 indicates that the ice maker's crusher motor has been detected as faulty. The crusher motor is the component that breaks whole ice cubes into crushed ice for dispensing. The refrigerator's control system was unable to confirm proper operation of this motor, so it logged the fault and may disable the crushed ice function.
Can I fix error code 3-1-6 myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can start by checking for ice jams in the crusher mechanism and clearing any blockages, which sometimes resolves the fault without parts. If a jam is not the issue, testing and replacing the crusher motor or ice maker assembly requires basic electrical testing skills and sourcing the correct replacement parts. If you are not comfortable with appliance electrical work, a certified technician is recommended.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator when error 3-1-6 is displayed?
Yes, error 3-1-6 is specific to the crusher motor within the ice maker system and does not affect the refrigerator's cooling or food preservation functions. You can continue using the refrigerator normally. However, avoid repeatedly selecting crushed ice mode while the fault is active, as this could stress or further damage the motor or assembly.
How much does it cost to repair error code 3-1-6 on a Bosch refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. If only the crusher motor needs replacement, parts typically range from around $30 to $100 depending on the model, plus labor if a technician is hired. If the full ice maker assembly requires replacement, parts costs generally range from $100 to $300 or more, with additional labor costs on top of that.
Will resetting my Bosch refrigerator clear error code 3-1-6?
A reset may temporarily clear the fault code from the display, but if the underlying crusher motor problem has not been resolved, the code will return once the control board attempts to operate the crusher again. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it is not a fix for a mechanically or electrically failed motor or ice maker assembly.

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