OEM vs Aftermarket Water Inlet Valve for Bosch Dishwashers: Honest Comparison (00628334)

You're staring at a Bosch dishwasher that won't fill with water. The inlet valve clicked its last click. Now you're looking at $120+ for the OEM part from Bosch versus $35.99 for an aftermarket replacement. That's a $85 difference — real money when you're already dealing with a broken appliance.

Let me break down what you're actually getting with each option, because this isn't just about price.

Quick Answer

For the 00628334 water inlet valve, aftermarket parts deliver identical performance at one-third the cost. OEM makes sense if you're under warranty or need same-day pickup from a local dealer. For everyone else? The aftermarket valve uses the same solenoid design and fits models like the SHE53T52UC, SHE65T55UC, and SHE7PT56UC without modification.

Side-by-Side Comparison

When OEM Makes Sense

There are legitimate reasons to stick with Bosch's branded part. If your dishwasher is still under manufacturer warranty, using aftermarket parts could void coverage — check your paperwork first. Some extended warranties specifically require OEM replacements.

You'll also want OEM if you need the part today. Local appliance parts dealers sometimes stock common Bosch valves for same-day pickup. That matters when you've got a kitchen full of dirty dishes and houseguests arriving tomorrow.

And if you're running a commercial kitchen or rental property where liability is a concern, OEM parts provide that extra documentation layer if something goes wrong. It's about paperwork, not performance.

When Aftermarket Wins

For the 00628334 inlet valve, you're saving $85–$110. That's substantial money for a part that does exactly the same job. The valve controls water flow into the dishwasher tub — there's no secret Bosch magic here. It's a solenoid, a screen, and plastic housing.

The aftermarket version works on the same models: SHE53T52UC, SHE53T55UC, SHE53T56UC, SHE53TF2UC, SHE65T52UC, SHE68T55UC, SHE7PT55UC, SHE863WF2N, and dozens more. Same mounting bracket. Same electrical connection. Same 120V dual-coil solenoid that opens when the dishwasher calls for water.

You're also getting a better warranty. Most OEM parts from Bosch come with 90 days. Aftermarket suppliers like Heima offer a full year because they know the parts hold up. That tells you something about confidence in the product.

Here's what matters for installation: the valve mounts in the same spot on the left side of the dishwasher base. Two screws hold it. One hose clamps on the inlet side, one on the outlet. The wiring harness clicks into place. If the OEM valve came out, the aftermarket valve goes in. No adapter plates, no modification.

Our Verdict

Unless you're under warranty or need same-day pickup, go aftermarket. The 00628334 replacement valve delivers identical function at $35.99 versus $120+ for OEM. You're fixing the same problem — a solenoid that won't open — and the physics don't care about the logo on the housing. Save the $85 and put it toward fixing the next thing that breaks.

What About Installation?

This isn't a complex repair. You'll need to disconnect power, shut off the water supply, and pull the dishwasher out far enough to access the left side panel. The inlet valve sits near the front. Disconnect the wiring harness, loosen the hose clamps, remove two mounting screws. Reverse the process with the new valve.

Most people finish in 30–45 minutes. The hardest part is usually pulling the dishwasher out from under the counter without scratching the floor. Put cardboard down first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will an aftermarket valve void my Bosch warranty?

If your dishwasher is still under manufacturer warranty, possibly yes. Check your warranty documentation. Once the warranty expires, you're free to use any compatible part. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prevents manufacturers from requiring branded parts for routine maintenance, but new appliances are a gray area.

How do I know the aftermarket valve will fit my specific model?

Check the compatible models list on the product page. The 00628334 fits SHE-series Bosch dishwashers including SHE53T52UC, SHE65T55UC, SHE68T56UC, SHE7PT52UC, SHE863WF2N, and many others. It also works with some Thermador models. If your model number appears on the compatibility list, it's a direct fit — same mounting holes, same connections.

What if the new valve fails within a few months?

OEM Bosch parts typically carry 90-day coverage. The Heima aftermarket valve includes a 1-year warranty. If it fails, you get a replacement. Keep your receipt and the old part. Most aftermarket suppliers honor warranties without hassle because valve failures are rare when the part is manufactured to spec.