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Error code reference

Bosch Refrigerator Error Code F35

Temperature in the ice maker has been colder than 0°C for 2 hours.

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Temperature in the ice maker has been colder than 0°C for 2 hours.

First step from the service manual

Check ice-maker cover for leaks, check heater actuation and condition, check sensor, check air duct.

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

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  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
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What F35 means on a Bosch refrigerator

The F35 error code on a Bosch refrigerator indicates that the temperature inside the ice maker compartment has remained below 0°C (32°F) for a continuous period of two hours. This is an abnormal operating condition because the ice maker requires controlled temperature cycling to properly form and release ice cubes. When the temperature stays too cold for too long, it typically signals that the defrost process within the ice maker is not completing correctly, leaving the compartment in a sustained freeze state that prevents normal ice production and ejection.

The most likely root causes involve the ice maker's internal heater or the sensor that monitors compartment temperature. The heater is responsible for briefly warming the ice mold during harvest cycles so cubes release cleanly. If the heater fails to actuate or has developed an open circuit, temperatures will remain depressed with no thermal recovery. A faulty temperature sensor can also misread actual conditions or fail to trigger the defrost cycle at the correct time, producing the same sustained-cold symptom without the heater actually being defective.

Additionally, leaks in the ice maker cover or blockages in the air duct that supplies cold air to the compartment can contribute to this fault. A cracked or poorly sealed cover allows excessive cold air infiltration, driving temperatures lower than intended. Restricted or misdirected airflow through the duct can similarly cause localized temperature extremes. Diagnosing F35 requires checking the cover's sealing integrity, verifying heater continuity and actuation, confirming the sensor is reading accurately, and inspecting the air duct for obstructions or damage.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F35

  1. 01

    Ice maker heater failure

    Part replacement

    The ice maker relies on a small heater to warm the mold during harvest cycles. If the heater has failed or is not being actuated, the compartment stays continuously frozen and the F35 condition is triggered. Check for heater continuity and verify the control board is sending the actuation signal.

  2. 02

    Faulty ice maker temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    A defective temperature sensor may misreport compartment temperature or fail to signal the control board to initiate defrost, leaving the ice maker in a prolonged freeze state. The sensor should be tested for proper resistance values at known temperatures and replaced if readings are out of range.

  3. 03

    Ice maker cover leak or poor seal

    Part replacement

    Cracks or gaps in the ice maker cover allow uncontrolled cold air from the freezer section to flood the ice maker compartment, suppressing temperatures below the normal operating range. Inspect the cover carefully for visible cracks, warping, or missing seals.

  4. 04

    Air duct obstruction or damage

    Wiring / connection

    The air duct that channels cold air to the ice maker can become blocked by ice buildup, debris, or physical damage, causing abnormal airflow and temperature distribution within the compartment. Inspect the duct for blockages, ice accumulation, or cracks that could redirect cold air.

  5. 05

    Control board not actuating heater

    Part replacement

    Even if the heater itself is intact, a fault in the control board can prevent the heater actuation signal from being sent during the harvest cycle, resulting in sustained below-freezing temperatures. This should be investigated after heater and sensor components have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F35

What does F35 mean on a Bosch refrigerator?
F35 means the refrigerator has detected that the ice maker compartment temperature has been colder than 0°C for at least two consecutive hours. This indicates the ice maker is not completing its normal defrost or harvest cycle, which requires a brief warming phase to release ice cubes. The fault points to the ice maker heater, temperature sensor, cover sealing, or air duct as likely causes.
Can I fix the F35 error myself, or do I need a technician?
Some causes of F35, such as a blocked or iced-over air duct, can be addressed by a knowledgeable DIYer willing to carefully inspect and clear the duct. However, testing the heater for continuity and actuation, verifying sensor resistance, and checking the ice maker cover for leaks require basic electrical testing skills and comfort working inside the appliance. If the control board is involved, professional service is strongly recommended.
Is the F35 error on my Bosch refrigerator a safety concern?
F35 is not a safety hazard to people or food, but it does indicate that the ice maker is not functioning correctly and may be at risk of damage from sustained freezing without proper cycling. Leaving the fault unaddressed for an extended period could worsen ice maker component damage. Food in the main refrigerator and freezer sections is typically unaffected.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the F35 code?
A reset may temporarily clear the displayed code, but F35 will return if the underlying problem is not corrected. Because the fault requires the abnormal condition to persist for two hours before triggering, a simple reset does not resolve issues with a failed heater, faulty sensor, damaged cover, or blocked air duct. Proper diagnosis and repair of the root cause are necessary for a permanent fix.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch refrigerator F35 error?
Repair costs vary depending on which component is at fault. Replacing an ice maker temperature sensor or heater element typically falls in the range of $100 to $250 including parts and labor. If the ice maker cover needs replacement or the air duct must be cleared and repaired, costs are generally at the lower end of that range. Control board replacement, if required, can push total costs to $300 or more depending on the specific model and service rates in your area.

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