mypros+
Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code E9171

Safety-switch door 2 error

Bosch codesBosch refrigerator codes

Safety-switch door 2 error

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for E9171.

  • 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 E9171 means on a Bosch refrigerator

The E9171 error code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates a fault with the safety switch assigned to door 2. This safety switch is a protective interlock component that monitors the status of the door and communicates that information to the main control board. When the control board detects an abnormal signal from this switch, whether it is an open circuit, a short circuit, or a signal that falls outside expected parameters, it logs the E9171 fault and may alter cooling operation or trigger an alert to prevent further issues.

Door safety switches in refrigerators serve two primary functions: they signal the control board when the door is open so interior lighting and related functions can activate, and they provide protective feedback that ensures the appliance does not operate indefinitely with the door ajar. If the switch fails mechanically, becomes misaligned due to door hinge wear, or develops a wiring fault in the harness connecting it to the control board, the signal to the board becomes unreliable or absent, resulting in this error.

Common root causes include a physically damaged or worn switch that no longer actuates properly, a loose or corroded connector at the switch or control board end of the wiring harness, or a door that has shifted out of alignment and no longer makes proper contact with the switch actuator. In some cases the control board itself may misinterpret an otherwise functional switch signal, though this is less common than a mechanical or wiring failure.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E9171

  1. 01

    Faulty or worn door safety switch

    Part replacement

    The switch mechanism on door 2 may have worn out or broken internally, causing it to send an incorrect or absent signal to the control board. Inspect the switch for visible damage and test for proper actuation when the door closes.

  2. 02

    Misaligned door not contacting the switch

    Wiring / connection

    If door 2 has shifted due to hinge wear or an overloaded door bin, the door may no longer press the switch actuator correctly. Check door alignment and hinge condition before replacing any components.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded wiring connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector at the safety switch or at the control board end of the wiring harness may be loose, corroded, or damaged, interrupting the signal. Inspect all connectors in the door 2 switch circuit and reseat or clean as needed.

  4. 04

    Damaged wiring harness

    Part replacement

    Repeated door opening and closing can stress the wiring harness, especially at the hinge area, leading to broken or frayed wires. Carefully inspect the harness routing from the switch to the control board for any visible damage.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    In rare cases the main control board may fail to correctly read an otherwise functional switch signal, logging a false E9171 error. This is typically diagnosed after all mechanical and wiring causes have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E9171

What does E9171 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
The E9171 code indicates a safety switch error specifically associated with door 2. The safety switch monitors whether the door is open or closed and relays that information to the control board. When the board receives an abnormal or absent signal from that switch, it triggers this fault code. The issue may stem from a failed switch, a wiring problem, or door misalignment.
Can I fix the E9171 error myself?
Some causes of the E9171 error are DIY-friendly, such as checking door alignment, reseating loose wire connectors, or cleaning corroded terminals. If the switch itself needs to be replaced, a technically inclined homeowner can often do this with basic tools after sourcing the correct replacement part. Wiring harness repairs and control board replacements are more complex and may benefit from a qualified technician.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the E9171 error?
A power reset, such as unplugging the unit for a few minutes and restoring power, may temporarily clear the error code if the fault was caused by a momentary glitch. However, if the underlying issue with the door 2 safety switch or its wiring persists, the E9171 code will return. A reset alone should not be considered a repair.
Is the E9171 error a safety risk?
The error itself is not an immediate safety hazard in most cases, but it can affect the refrigerator's ability to maintain proper temperatures if the door status is being misreported to the control board. Food spoilage is a practical concern if cooling is compromised. It is advisable to address the fault promptly rather than leaving it unresolved.
How much does it cost to repair an E9171 error on a Bosch refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A door switch replacement is generally one of the lower-cost repairs, with parts typically ranging from a modest amount up to around $50 to $100 depending on the specific component, plus labor if a technician is involved. Wiring harness repairs or control board replacement can cost significantly more, potentially ranging from $150 to $400 or higher with professional labor included.

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