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Home Guides & Articles Bosch Strimmer Not Working? Common Causes and Solutions

Bosch Strimmer Not Working? Common Causes and Solutions

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Bosch Strimmer Broken

Is your Bosch strimmer not working? Whether it won't start, keeps cutting out, the strimmer head isn't spinning or the line isn't feeding correctly, there are several possible causes.


Bosch makes a wide range of electric and cordless grass trimmers, including popular models such as the ART 23, ART 26, ART 30, ART 35 and ART 37. Many Bosch strimmers can be repaired using individual replacement parts rather than replacing the entire machine.


In this guide, we'll look at the most common reasons why a Bosch strimmer is not working, what you can check and which Bosch strimmer parts may be required.


If you're looking for replacement components, you can also browse the full range of Bosch strimmer parts and spares available for different models.


Why Is My Bosch Strimmer Not Working?


There are several reasons why a Bosch strimmer may suddenly stop working.


Common problems include:


The first step is to establish exactly what your Bosch strimmer is doing when you try to use it.


Bosch Strimmer Won't Start


If your Bosch strimmer won't start at all, begin with the power supply.


Corded Bosch strimmer


If you have a mains-powered Bosch strimmer, check:


Never use a strimmer with a damaged mains cable.


If the power supply is working but the strimmer still won't start, there could be a fault with the switch, motor, wiring or another internal electrical component.


Cordless Bosch strimmer


For a cordless model, make sure the battery is charged and correctly fitted.


If possible, try a known-good compatible battery.


If the strimmer works with another battery, the original battery or its connection could be responsible.


If it still won't start, the fault may be inside the strimmer.


Bosch Strimmer Keeps Cutting Out


If your Bosch strimmer keeps cutting out, there are several things worth checking.


A common cause can be the strimmer being overloaded. Long or heavy grass can put additional load on the motor, particularly if the cutting head becomes clogged.


Switch the strimmer off, disconnect it from its power source or remove the battery, and check the cutting head.


Remove any grass, weeds or other debris that has become wrapped around the head.


If the strimmer continues to cut out when running freely, there could be an electrical or mechanical fault.


Possible causes include:


Bosch Strimmer Head Not Spinning


One of the most common problems people encounter is a Bosch strimmer head not spinning.


If you can hear the motor running but the cutting head isn't rotating correctly, there may be a problem with the drive mechanism.


Check the head for grass, string and debris first.


If the head is completely jammed, don't attempt to operate the strimmer until the blockage has been removed.


If the head is clear but still won't rotate, possible causes include:


Some Bosch models have individual replacement components available, so identifying the exact model can help you find the correct part.


Bosch Strimmer Line Not Feeding


If your Bosch strimmer runs normally but the cutting line isn't feeding, the motor may not be the problem.


The issue could be with the spool or line cartridge.


Check that:


Bosch strimmers use different spool and line systems depending on the model.


For example, Power Tool Spares lists a cutting line cartridge F 016 102 658 for the Bosch ART 23 GF, although availability can vary.


Always check your exact Bosch model before ordering a replacement spool or cartridge.


Bosch Strimmer Has No Power


If your Bosch strimmer starts but seems noticeably weaker than normal, there are several possible causes.


For cordless models, try another fully charged battery.


For corded models, check the power supply and extension lead.


A blunt, damaged or incorrectly fitted cutting system can also make the strimmer appear to have lost power because the motor is working harder than normal.


If the power loss continues without any obvious blockage, the motor or another internal component may need to be inspected.


Bosch Strimmer Overheating


A Bosch strimmer can become warm during normal operation, particularly when cutting thick vegetation.


However, excessive heat shouldn't be ignored.


Possible causes include:


Switch the strimmer off and allow it to cool before investigating.


If it repeatedly overheats during normal use, there may be an underlying fault that needs attention.


Check the Bosch Strimmer Switch


A faulty switch can prevent a Bosch strimmer from starting or cause intermittent operation.


If the switch feels loose, sticks or only works when held in a particular position, it could be worn or damaged.


Replacement switches are available for some Bosch strimmer models.


For example, Power Tool Spares lists an on-off switch F 016 103 157 for the Bosch ART 23 GF.


Other Bosch models use different switches, so don't order a switch based solely on appearance.


Use the model number and parts diagram to identify the correct component.


Bosch Strimmer Motor Problems


If the motor isn't running, is excessively noisy or is producing unusual smells, the motor or one of its associated components could be faulty.


Depending on the Bosch model, replacement motor components may be available.


For example, the Bosch ART 23 GF parts listing includes an alternating-current motor 1 607 220 045, while the Bosch AMW 10 parts listing includes a motor subassembly and printed circuit board assembly.


This demonstrates why it's important to search for parts using your exact model rather than simply searching for a generic "Bosch strimmer motor".


Bosch Strimmer Power Cable Problems


Corded Bosch strimmers rely on their mains cable to supply power to the motor.


A damaged or worn cable can cause:


Inspect the cable for cuts, splits, crushing or other visible damage.


If the cable is damaged, stop using the strimmer.


Replacement power cables are available for some Bosch models. For example, the ART 23 GF parts listing includes power supply cord F 016 102 997.


Bosch Strimmer Trigger or Button Problems


Some Bosch cordless and electric strimmers use triggers, switches or buttons as part of the starting mechanism.


If the trigger doesn't operate correctly, the strimmer may not start even though the battery or mains supply is fine.


The Bosch ART 37, for example, has individual replacement components including a switch, trigger, spring and button listed in its parts breakdown.


If your trigger feels different from normal, check the relevant parts diagram for your model.


Bosch Strimmer Parts You May Need


If you've diagnosed the problem and need a replacement component, there are many different Bosch strimmer parts available depending on the model.


These can include:


We have a dedicated Bosch strimmer parts section covering a large number of Bosch grass trimmer and lawn edge trimmer models.


Popular Bosch Strimmer Models


When searching for a replacement part, it's important to include your exact Bosch model number.


Some of the Bosch strimmer models covered by available parts listings include:


Bosch ART 23


The ART 23 range includes several variations, including the ART 23 G, ART 23 GF, ART 23 SL, ART 23 COMBITRIM and other versions.


The exact parts can vary between models, so make sure you select the correct version.


Bosch ART 23 parts


Bosch ART 26


The ART 26 range includes models such as the ART 26 ACCU, ART 26 AS, ART 26 COMBITRIM, ART 26 LI, ART 26 SL and ART 26-18 LI.


Bosch ART 26 ACCU parts


Bosch ART 30


The ART 30 is another popular Bosch grass trimmer range, with multiple versions including the ART 30, ART 30 AS, ART 30 COMBITRIM, ART 30 D and ART 30 GSD.


Bosch ART 30 parts


Bosch ART 35


The Bosch ART 35 has a number of individual replacement components available. Its parts listing includes items such as the switch, trigger, spring and button.


Bosch ART 35 parts


Bosch ART 37


The Bosch ART 37 is another popular grass trimmer with individual replacement components available, including switches, triggers, springs and buttons.


Bosch ART 37 parts


Bosch ART 30 GSD


The ART 30 GSD has individual components available including rollers, shafts, springs, sliders and other parts.


Bosch ART 30 GSD parts


How to Find the Correct Bosch Strimmer Part


One of the biggest mistakes when ordering Bosch strimmer parts is searching by the name of the tool alone.


Bosch has produced many different versions of similar-looking strimmers, and parts aren't necessarily interchangeable.


Instead, find the model number on your machine.


You may also find a Bosch type number beginning with 0 600 or 3 600.


For example, a parts listing for the Bosch ART 37 identifies the machine as 3 600 H78 M20, while the ART 35 is listed as 3 600 H78 M00.


Using this information makes it much easier to identify the correct spare part.


Should You Repair Your Bosch Strimmer?


If your Bosch strimmer has stopped working, it doesn't necessarily mean you need to buy a new one.


A relatively small component can sometimes cause the entire machine to stop working.


A faulty switch, damaged cable, worn cutting head or failed internal component may be replaceable.


Repairing the strimmer can therefore be a practical alternative to replacing the entire machine, particularly if the rest of the tool is in good condition.


Bosch Strimmer Troubleshooting Checklist


If your Bosch strimmer is not working, work through these checks:

  1. Check the power supply – make sure the socket, cable or battery is working.
  2. Check the switch or trigger – make sure it operates normally.
  3. Inspect the cutting head – remove grass and debris.
  4. Check the spool – make sure the line isn't jammed.
  5. Try another battery – if you're using a cordless model.
  6. Check for overheating – allow the strimmer to cool before further testing.
  7. Listen for unusual noises – these can indicate a mechanical fault.
  8. Check the motor – particularly if there is no response from the machine.
  9. Identify your exact model – this is essential when ordering spare parts.
  10. Check the parts diagram – use the model and part number to confirm compatibility.


Frequently Asked Questions


Why is my Bosch strimmer not working?


Check the battery or mains supply first, followed by the switch, cutting head and spool. If these are working correctly, the problem could be an internal electrical or mechanical component.


Why does my Bosch strimmer keep cutting out?


A blocked cutting head, excessive load, overheating, battery problem or electrical fault can cause a Bosch strimmer to repeatedly cut out.


Why is my Bosch strimmer head not spinning?


If the motor runs but the head doesn't rotate, there could be grass or debris blocking the head or a fault with the internal drive mechanism.


Why isn't my Bosch strimmer line feeding?


Check that the correct spool or cartridge is fitted and that the line isn't jammed. Grass or debris around the cutting head can also prevent the line from feeding correctly.


Can a Bosch strimmer be repaired?


Yes. Depending on the model and fault, individual Bosch strimmer spare parts can be replaced, including switches, triggers, motors, cables, cutting heads and other components.


How do I find the right Bosch strimmer spare part?


Find the exact model or type number on your Bosch strimmer and use it to locate the corresponding parts diagram. Always check the part number before ordering.


Get Your Bosch Strimmer Working Again


If your Bosch strimmer is not working, don't automatically assume that the whole machine needs replacing.


Start with the simple checks: battery or mains power, switch, cutting head, spool and any obvious blockages. If these don't solve the problem, identifying the faulty component can help you determine whether the strimmer can be repaired.


With Bosch producing a large range of strimmers and multiple variations of popular models, using the exact model number is essential when looking for Bosch strimmer parts.


You can browse the full range of Bosch strimmer spares and parts, or go directly to the Bosch spare parts section to search for your specific tool.


Always remove the battery or disconnect the strimmer from the mains before inspecting or working on it. If you're unsure about an electrical repair, have the tool inspected by a suitably qualified professional.