My Subzero (fridge and freezer) and Miele (DW) panels are all attached with screws. No issues with the weight of the panels and no parts to break.

Why not just replace the broken part (example: SHVM63W53N)?

I have paneled two Bosch DWs with no issues. The last was about six years in when I sold the home. I understand why you strongly prefer it. Good luck.

Thanks to all for your comments. We have decided to stick with the panel front. In answer to the question about getting it repaired. My husband decided to try to make the fix himself. (We had done it successfully on our KitchenAid in our last house.) We were able to get the part and studied the YouTube videos so we thought we were will prepared. Unfortunately, he had difficulty getting the unit to move out of the space and pulled on the door. Following the sound of cracking and parts dropping we decided just to replace it. Lesson learned. Ugh.

Sorry to hear about the repair gone wrong.

I also have a Bosch with a wood panel. I made the panel myself (I make cabinets) and installed it with screws - no cord. I haven't had any issues at all.

Note that the Bosch spec sheet has a weight range for panels on their panel-ready DWs. My panel is barely over the minimum, so it takes real effort to open, and it closes (almost too) strongly. I knew that my panel was relatively light, as it's a flat/recessed panel with shaker rails and stiles, so I added a masonite 1/4" backer to add weight (otherwise it would have been underweight relative to Bosch specs).

Is there any chance that the weight of your panel is on the heavy side?

Could be. Thanks for the input. I was not aware of the weight specs for the Bosch. I will definitely follow up on that.

salex,

The "cord" of reference is not to mount the panel ... its part of the counterbalance & spring system to handle the weight of the panel. Heavier panels require adjusting the spring tighter, which puts more strain on the cord.

Yours apparently is adjusted too strong for your panel being that you say your door takes effort to open and tends to slam shut.

Is the spring strength adjustable for the different weight? I know that with Miele it is. But that's necessary, because there really is no difference between a dishwasher that has a lightweight stainless steel shell or a dishwasher that has a heavy wooden panel. It's the exact same Miele model. The only thing you need for mounting a wooden panel, is a clip for holding it on the door. And that's an extra part that you order from Miele. Afterwards, you must adjust the spring strength.

M I have asked the installer to bring both strengths of spring. I am hoping that does the trick. Thanks.