Bosch Washer Error Code 44

Error code 44 on a Bosch washer indicates that the self-test of the relay responsible for reversing the drum motor's direction of rotation has failed. During normal operation, the drum alternates its rotation direction throughout the wash cycle, and this directional change is controlled by a triac on the main control board. A triac is a semiconductor switching device that manages the flow of AC current to the motor windings. When the control board runs its relay test routine, it checks whether this triac can properly switch and control current flow in both directions. If the triac is found to be non-functional or broken, the board logs error code 44 and halts operation.

The root cause in virtually all cases is a failed triac on the main electronic control board. Triacs can fail due to electrical surges, overheating from sustained motor load, or age-related component degradation. A shorted or open triac will prevent the motor from receiving the proper switching signals needed to reverse rotation. This is classified as a control board fault, meaning the defect resides within the board itself rather than in an external wiring harness or motor component. In some cases, a burned or damaged circuit trace adjacent to the triac may also contribute to the failure.

The recommended first diagnostic step is to reset the error by entering the washer's test mode, then observing whether the fault returns. If the error reappears immediately or during the test sequence, the main control board should be inspected closely for visible signs of burning, discoloration, or damaged components around the triac. Because this is an internal board component failure, repair typically requires either replacing the entire control board or having the board professionally reconditioned.