Bosch Appliance Error Codes
Refrigerator
Error codes for Bosch French door, side-by-side, and counter-depth refrigerator models. Bosch uses the E0x series for sensor faults and E20 for communication errors.
E01
Refrigerator Compartment Sensor Defective
Temperature sensor in the fresh food section has failed
What This Means
E01 indicates the temperature sensor (thermistor) in the refrigerator compartment has failed. Located in the upper right corner of the fridge section, this sensor provides the control board with real-time temperature data used to regulate cooling. Without it, the fridge may overcool and freeze food, or run too warm and risk spoilage.
Common Causes
- Thermistor failed — open or short circuit after years of use
- Wire harness connector to the sensor loose or corroded
- Harness routed near a heat source causing insulation damage
What You Can Try
Unplug the refrigerator and inspect the wire harness connector on the temperature sensor in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment. Reseat any loose connections. If the harness looks damaged, replace it. If connections are intact but E01 persists, the sensor itself requires replacement. Per Bosch official guidance, reset power to the breaker for 30 seconds first — if the code returns, contact Bosch Customer Support or schedule a technician visit.
E02
Freezer Compartment Sensor Defective
Temperature sensor in the freezer section has failed
What This Means
E02 means the temperature sensor in the freezer compartment is faulty. The freezer sensor is critical for maintaining food below 0°F (-18°C) — without accurate readings, the compressor cannot run the correct cooling cycles. Frozen food loss can occur quickly if E02 is ignored.
Common Causes
- Thermistor failed — open or short circuit
- Wire harness to the freezer sensor loose, damaged, or corroded
- Ice buildup physically dislodging the sensor from its mount
What You Can Try
Transfer frozen food to a backup freezer immediately. Unplug the refrigerator, locate the freezer temperature sensor, and check wire harness connections. Replace the harness if damaged. If connections are fine, replace the sensor. Reset the breaker for 30 seconds — if E02 returns, professional sensor replacement is required. Do not store food in the freezer while E02 is active.
E03
Temperature-Controlled Drawer Sensor Defective
FlexBar or deli drawer temperature sensor has failed
What This Means
E03 indicates the temperature sensor in the temperature-controlled drawer (FlexBar or deli drawer) has failed. This sensor manages the separate temperature zone within the drawer. Without it, the drawer cannot maintain the precise temperature needed for items like deli meats and cheeses. The main refrigerator and freezer sections continue operating normally while E03 is active.
Common Causes
- Drawer thermistor failed after exposure to temperature cycling
- Sensor connector dislodged when opening/closing the drawer
- Wire harness pinched behind the drawer during installation
What You Can Try
Unplug the refrigerator and remove the temperature-controlled drawer. Inspect the sensor and wire harness connections at the rear of the drawer cavity. Reseat any loose connectors. If wiring looks intact, replace the drawer temperature sensor. Contact Bosch support if the issue persists after sensor replacement.
E15
Ambient Temperature Sensor Fault
Display module ambient sensor has failed or communication lost
What This Means
E15 on a Bosch refrigerator points to a problem with the ambient temperature sensor — the sensor that helps the display control module function correctly based on room conditions. Without this sensor, the unit cannot adapt its cooling output to the ambient environment, reducing efficiency particularly in warm or cold kitchens.
Common Causes
- Ambient sensor failed within the display control module
- Display control module hardware fault affecting the sensor circuit
- Communication break between main control board and display module
What You Can Try
Power off the refrigerator for 5 minutes at the wall — transient electronics faults sometimes clear on restart. If E15 returns, the display control module likely requires replacement by a technician. Do not attempt to replace the module without proper service documentation, as programming may be required.
E20
Communication Error — Main Board & Display Module
Control boards have lost communication with each other
What This Means
E20 indicates a communication failure between the main control board and the display control module. Modern Bosch refrigerators use two separate control boards that communicate via a data bus. When this link fails, the display cannot send or receive control signals from the main board — functions like temperature display, alarms, and settings adjustment may stop working.
Common Causes
- Wiring harness between the two control boards loose or damaged
- Power surge corrupting or damaging one or both boards
- Failed component on the main control board or display module
What You Can Try
Reset the breaker for 30 seconds. If E20 clears and does not return, a transient communication glitch occurred. If E20 returns consistently, professional diagnosis is required — the technician will test the wiring harness and determine which board has failed. Both boards can be involved in this fault.
E/D
FLASH
FLASH
General Electronic Fault
Non-specific fault code — power cycle required
What This Means
A flashing "E" or "D" on a Bosch refrigerator display indicates a general electronic or temperature alarm — typically following a power outage, door left open, or brief electronic glitch. It is less specific than numbered E-codes and is Bosch's way of signaling that something needs attention without identifying a specific component failure.
Common Causes
- Recent power outage — appliance warmed during the outage period
- Door left open for an extended period
- Transient electronic glitch on the control board
What You Can Try
Per official Bosch guidance: (1) Switch off the appliance. (2) Unplug from the power supply or turn off the circuit breaker. (3) Reconnect after 5 minutes. (4) If the error message still appears after restart, call Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904.
Dryer
Error codes for Bosch condenser and ventless heat pump dryers. Most common codes relate to airflow — clean the lint filter after every cycle to prevent E01/E02.
E01
Lint Filter Blocked — First Warning
Lint filter sensor detecting restricted airflow — clean immediately
What This Means
E01 on a Bosch dryer is a preventive airflow warning — the lint filter sensor has detected restricted airflow. Bosch dryers automatically alert you to a blocked lint filter before airflow becomes critically restricted, which helps prevent overheating and reduces fire risk. The dryer will continue operating but drying efficiency is reduced.
Common Causes
- Lint filter not cleaned after the previous cycle
- Fabric softener residue clogging the filter mesh (invisible to the naked eye)
- Lint accumulated inside the filter housing cavity
What You Can Try
Remove the lint filter from the cavity between the door and drum. Remove all visible lint. Wash the filter under warm running water — fabric softener deposits are only removed by rinsing, not by hand-cleaning. Let it dry completely before reinserting. Vacuum the filter housing cavity to remove any loose lint inside. Bosch recommends cleaning the lint filter after every single load, and rinsing it with water weekly.
E02
Lint Filter Still Blocked — Persistent Airflow Restriction
Airflow still restricted after E01 — deeper cleaning or vent check required
What This Means
E02 appears when the dryer still detects restricted airflow after E01 — typically because the lint filter was not adequately cleaned, or lint has accumulated in other areas of the airflow path. Continued operation with restricted airflow risks overheating and is a fire hazard.
Common Causes
- Lint filter not fully cleaned — fine particles and fabric softener residue remain
- Lint accumulated inside the filter housing cavity beyond the filter itself
- External vent/ductwork clogged or kinked at the dryer exit
- Moisture sensor strips coated with dryer sheet residue
What You Can Try
Re-clean the lint filter thoroughly — rinse under warm water until water flows freely through the mesh. Use a vacuum brush to clean inside the filter cavity. Check the condensation drainage hose for kinks (condenser dryers). Inspect the external vent exit point for lint blockage. Clean the two curved moisture sensing strips just inside the door opening with isopropyl alcohol. If E02 persists after all cleaning steps, the airflow sensor may require professional service.
E03
E13
E13
Cycle Too Long / Drying Time Exceeded
Maximum 4-hour drying limit reached — load too large or airflow restricted
What This Means
Bosch dryers have a built-in maximum drying time limit of 4 hours. If a cycle runs to this limit without completing, E03 or E13 appears. This is most commonly caused by an overloaded drum (clothes can't tumble freely), restricted airflow from a dirty lint filter or blocked vent, or an open/weak heating element causing inadequate heat. For gas dryers, ignition issues can also trigger this code.
Common Causes
- Drum overloaded — clothes packed too tightly to tumble and dry
- Lint filter or external vent clogged — low heat condition
- Heating element open or weak — dryer runs but doesn't heat sufficiently
- Moisture sensing strips coated with residue — reading as still damp
- Gas ignition issue (gas dryers only)
What You Can Try
Reduce load size — clothes should tumble freely with space to move. Clean the lint filter and check the external vent. Clean the moisture sensing strips with isopropyl alcohol. If the dryer runs but produces little heat, the heating element requires professional testing and replacement.
E04
Drum Overloaded
Too much laundry in the drum — motor or airflow under stress
What This Means
E04 indicates the dryer is overloaded. Bosch dryers detect when the drum is packed too tightly for clothes to tumble freely. This alerts you before a 4-hour overshoot (E03) occurs, and prevents stress on the drum motor and heating system.
Common Causes
- Too many items loaded in a single cycle
- Heavy items such as duvets or thick towels exceed the dryer's capacity
What You Can Try
Remove some items from the drum — Bosch recommends leaving about a hand's width of space above the clothes. For large items like duvets, check your model's maximum load capacity in the user manual. Split into two smaller loads for best drying results.
E12
Overheating
Dryer temperature exceeded safe limit — airflow severely restricted
What This Means
E12 signals that the dryer has reached a dangerous temperature — the thermal limiter or thermostat has detected overheating. This is a serious safety code. Continued overheating risks fire in the lint-filled ductwork and can permanently damage the heating element and control board. The dryer will shut down automatically when E12 appears.
Common Causes
- External vent severely blocked — heat has nowhere to escape
- Vent duct kinked, crushed, or far too long — common in laundry rooms with long duct runs
- Lint filter completely clogged — the most preventable cause
- Thermal limiter failed — part that prevents overheating has triggered
What You Can Try
Allow the dryer to cool completely before doing anything. Thoroughly clean the lint filter. Check the external vent exit for blockages — bird nests, lint clogs, and damaged vent covers are common culprits. Verify the ductwork is not kinked behind the dryer. If E12 returns after clearing all airflow restrictions, the thermal limiter or heating element may need professional replacement — do not ignore E12 as a fire risk is present.
E16
Door Opened During Cycle
Dryer door was opened mid-cycle — informational alert
What This Means
E16 is an informational code — the dryer door was opened during an active drying cycle. This is normal if you needed to add an item, but the dryer records and displays the event. The dryer stopped automatically when the door was opened as a safety measure.
Common Causes
- Door opened intentionally to add or remove items
- Door latch not fully engaged — door popped open during tumbling
What You Can Try
Close the door firmly and press Start to resume the cycle. If E16 appears without the door being opened, inspect the door latch and switch — the latch may not be engaging fully on closure. A worn door latch or seal may need replacement.
E63
E06
E06
Heating Element Failure
Heating element has failed — dryer runs but produces no heat
What This Means
E63 (on newer models) or E06 (on older models) indicates the heating element has failed. The dryer drum will continue to tumble but clothes will not dry — the cycle will run without heat. Per Bosch's official guidance, if E63 appears, unplug the dryer and inspect the heating element for visible damage or burns before contacting a technician.
Common Causes
- Heating element burned out — failed due to age or repeated overheating events
- Loose connection at the heating element terminals
- Heating element relay on the control board failed
What You Can Try
Unplug the dryer. Inspect the heating element for visible damage — burn marks or broken coil. Check that element connections are secure. If no visible damage is found or connections are intact, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904. Heating element replacement requires technical expertise and access to the rear or bottom panel of the dryer.
DR
Door Not Properly Closed
Dryer cannot start — door latch or switch issue
What This Means
The "DR" code means the dryer's door is not properly closed or there is a problem with the door switch. The dryer cannot start or complete a cycle without a secure door for safety. This prevents the drum from spinning with the door open.
Common Causes
- Door not pushed firmly shut — try closing with more pressure
- Item of clothing caught in the door preventing full closure
- Door latch worn or broken — not engaging with the catch
- Door switch faulty — latch engages but switch doesn't register
What You Can Try
Ensure no clothing is caught in the door seal. Push the door firmly closed — you should hear or feel it click into the latch. Inspect the door latch and catch for visible damage or misalignment. If the door closes fully but DR persists, the door switch may need replacement.
CrE
Care Program Due
Maintenance reminder — run the basic appliance care program
What This Means
CrE is not an error — it is a maintenance reminder. After a certain number of operating hours, Bosch dryers automatically recommend running the built-in basic appliance care program, which cleans the internal condenser and drum. CrE will appear for 5 seconds before the start and at the end of each program, repeating until the care program is completed.
Common Causes
- Normal wear — CrE appears automatically after a set number of operating hours
What You Can Try
Consult your Bosch dryer's user manual for specific instructions on running the care program — the button combination varies by model. The care program typically takes 30–60 minutes and uses a small amount of water to clean the condenser. Running the care program regularly extends the dryer's service life and maintains efficiency.
Microwave
Error codes for Bosch built-in and over-the-range microwave models. Most microwave faults require professional service due to high-voltage components.
F-series
codes
codes
Microwave Control Board / Sensor Fault
F-prefix codes indicate electronic or sensor faults in the microwave
What This Means
Bosch built-in microwaves display F-prefix codes when the control board detects internal faults including sensor failures, door switch issues, and control board malfunctions. Microwave interiors operate at extremely high voltages (the capacitor can store a lethal charge even after unplugging) — all internal diagnosis and repair must be performed by a qualified technician.
Common Causes
- Moisture or food residue infiltrating the door switch mechanism
- Control board fault — power surge or component failure
- Temperature sensor (cavity thermistor) failed from repeated high-temperature use
- Door latch not engaging properly — safety interlocks prevent operation
What You Can Try
Power off the microwave at the wall for 2 minutes and restart — transient control board glitches sometimes clear on restart. Check that the door latches fully and nothing is obstructing the door seal. Clean any food debris from around the door seal and interior. Note the exact F-code displayed and contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 — never open the microwave chassis yourself due to lethal capacitor voltage.
DOOR
ALARM
ALARM
Door Not Closing / Latch Fault
Microwave will not start — door interlock not satisfied
What This Means
Microwaves use multiple door interlock switches as a safety system to prevent microwave energy emission with the door open. If any of these switches fails to register a closed door, the microwave will not operate. This is a federal safety requirement for all microwave ovens.
Common Causes
- Food residue or debris blocking the door latch hook from engaging
- Door interlock switch worn or failed
- Door hinge bent from impact — door not aligning correctly
What You Can Try
Clean the door latch area thoroughly. Inspect the door hooks and the latch cavity on the microwave frame for debris. Close the door firmly. If the door feels loose or misaligned, the hinge or latch assembly requires professional replacement. Do not attempt to defeat or bypass door interlock switches.
Oven
Error codes for Bosch single and double wall ovens (HBL, HBN, HBLP series). Bosch uses E-prefix codes on newer models and F-prefix codes on older platforms.
E011
F011
F011
Control Panel Key Stuck
A button on the control panel is stuck or continuously sending a signal
What This Means
E011 or F011 appears when a button on the oven control panel is stuck or continuously sending an input signal. This often results from moisture or food residue under a button, causing the control board to interpret it as a continuously pressed key. The oven may not respond to other commands while a button is stuck.
Common Causes
- Liquid spilled on or near the control panel infiltrating under a button
- Food residue or grease buildup under touch controls
- Membrane keypad damaged — physically stuck button
- Electronic false signal from the control panel board
What You Can Try
Clean the control panel carefully with a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution — avoid excess moisture near controls. Power off the oven for 5 minutes to reset the control board. If E011 returns, inspect the control panel for visible damage or sticky residue. If a specific button appears stuck or depressed, the membrane keypad or control panel assembly requires replacement.
E101
F2/F3
F2/F3
Temperature Probe / Sensor Fault
Oven temperature sensor (PT500) open circuit or incorrect reading
What This Means
E101 (newer models) or F2/F3 (older models) indicates a fault in the oven's temperature probe — a PT500 resistance thermometer that reports oven cavity temperature to the control board. An open circuit means the sensor wire has broken; a short circuit causes incorrect readings. Without an accurate probe, the oven cannot regulate temperature correctly — baking and roasting performance will be severely affected.
Common Causes
- Sensor wire broken — open circuit (most common after years of thermal cycling)
- Corroded or loose connection at the control board connector
- Sensor physically damaged by a pan or rack touching it
What You Can Try
Power off the oven and allow it to cool. Inspect the temperature probe — a small metal rod typically protruding from the upper rear wall of the oven cavity. Check that it is not physically damaged or bent. Reseat the wire connection at the probe. If the probe looks undamaged but E101 or F2 persists, the probe requires professional replacement and calibration verification.
E104
F3x
F3x
Temperature Sensor Short Circuit
PT500 sensor cable short circuit — oven reads incorrect temperature
What This Means
E104 (or F3x on older models) indicates a short circuit in the oven temperature sensor cable. While E101 means an open (broken) circuit, E104 means the circuit is shorted — two wires are touching each other, causing the control board to read an incorrect resistance value. This may cause the oven to underheat, overheat, or refuse to operate.
Common Causes
- Sensor cable insulation burned or melted — wires shorting together
- PT500 sensor itself has failed internally (shorted)
- Wiring pinched against the oven frame during a repair or rack adjustment
What You Can Try
Power off and allow the oven to cool completely. Inspect the sensor and its wiring for visible burn damage or melted insulation. Do not use the oven if a short circuit is suspected — overheating risk. Professional replacement of the PT500 sensor and cable inspection is required.
E106
F41
F41
Oven Door Latch Fault
Door not locking properly — self-clean cycle cannot start
What This Means
E106 (newer) or F41 (older) indicates the oven door latch mechanism is not locking properly. On Bosch ovens, the door latch must fully engage before the self-cleaning cycle can begin — this is a safety requirement as the oven reaches extremely high temperatures (over 900°F) during pyrolytic cleaning. Normal baking may still be possible, but self-clean will not run.
Common Causes
- Door latch actuator motor failed
- Latch mechanism obstructed by food debris in the door frame area
- Door hinge damaged — door slightly misaligned preventing full latch engagement
- Latch sensor switch defective — latch moves but switch doesn't register
What You Can Try
Clean around the door frame and latch area to remove any food debris. Open and close the door fully — check for any resistance or binding. Power cycle the oven for 5 minutes. If E106 or F41 persists, the door latch assembly requires professional replacement.
E115
F111
F111
Oven Over-Temperature
Oven temperature has exceeded safe maximum — element stuck on
What This Means
E115 (newer) or F111 (older) — the oven temperature has exceeded 585°F during bake or broil mode (or 950°F during clean mode for F113). This indicates a heating element or relay is stuck in the ON position, continuously heating the oven beyond the set temperature. This is a serious fault that can cause fire or structural damage to the oven.
Common Causes
- Relay on the electronic control board stuck in the closed (on) position
- Bake or broil heating element shorted — heating continuously
- Faulty temperature sensor causing the control board to misread temperature and run the element too long
What You Can Try
Turn off the oven immediately and allow it to cool completely. Unplug the oven at the wall. Do not use the oven again until the fault is diagnosed — a stuck relay is a fire hazard. Professional repair is required to identify and replace the faulty relay or heating element.
E151
F151
F151
Control Board Failure
Electronic control board fault or communication error
What This Means
E151 or F151 indicates the electronic control board has failed or a communication error has occurred. The control board is the central computer of the oven — it manages all heating elements, sensors, timers, and display functions. A failed board can render the oven completely non-functional.
Common Causes
- Power surge or voltage spike damaging the board
- Component failure on the control board
- Wiring harness loose at the control board connectors
What You Can Try
Unplug the oven and check wire harness connections at the electronic control board. If connections are intact but E151 returns, the control board requires professional replacement. Use a surge protector or whole-home surge protection to prevent recurrence after repair.
F170
Power Failure
Power interruption detected — press Cancel to clear
What This Means
F170 indicates the oven detected a power interruption — either a brief power outage or a momentary voltage drop. This is an informational code, not a component failure. The oven stores the event and displays F170 when power is restored so you're aware the oven lost power during an active cycle.
Common Causes
- Power outage — home lost power while oven was in use
- Circuit breaker tripped during oven operation
- Momentary voltage drop on the household supply
What You Can Try
Press the Cancel button to clear F170. If F170 reappears without a power outage occurring, inspect the power cord and outlet — replace a damaged power cord. If the breaker trips with the oven on, consult an electrician about your circuit load capacity. F170 poses no further risk if power is stable.
Range & Stove
Error codes for Bosch slide-in and freestanding ranges. Range models share many error codes with wall ovens — cooktop-specific codes use F1/F2/F5 prefixes.
F1 / F6
Cooktop Electronics Overheated — Temporary Shutdown
Cooking zone electronics too hot — wait for cooling, then resume
What This Means
F1 or F6 on a Bosch range/cooktop indicates the electronics controlling the cooking zone have overheated. Per official Bosch guidance: wait until the electronics have cooled sufficiently, then switch the cooking zone back on to continue. This is a thermal protection response, not a component failure — it is most common on induction and electric smoothtop zones during extended high-power cooking.
Common Causes
- Extended use at maximum power output — electronics thermal limit reached
- Ventilation under the cooktop restricted (built-in models)
- Ambient temperature in the kitchen very high
What You Can Try
Turn off the affected cooking zone and allow it to cool for 10–15 minutes. Do not attempt to restart the zone while the electronics are still hot. Once cooled, switch the zone back on — F1/F6 should clear and cooking can resume. If F1 or F6 appears frequently at normal power levels, ensure the ventilation around the range is unobstructed and contact Bosch support.
F2 / F4
E7015
E7015
Cooking Zone Electronics Overheated — Touch Required
Electronics overheated — touch any control element after cooling to clear
What This Means
F2, F4, or E7015 on a Bosch range cooktop indicates the electronics have overheated and require user acknowledgment after cooling. Unlike F1/F6 (which self-reset), these codes require you to touch a control element on the cooktop surface once the electronics have cooled. Per Bosch: wait until electronics cool, touch any control element, and when the error disappears, cooking can resume.
Common Causes
- High-power extended cooking cycle — zone electronics reached thermal limit
- Poor ventilation under the cooktop
- Multiple cooking zones running at maximum simultaneously
What You Can Try
Allow the cooktop to cool for 10–20 minutes. Then touch any control surface — the code should clear. Resume cooking. If F2, F4, or E7015 recur regularly at normal cooking levels, check that the area beneath the cooktop has adequate ventilation, and contact Bosch support for further diagnostics.
E9000
E9010
E9010
Power Supply Problem
Voltage issue on the range power supply — utility provider involvement needed
What This Means
E9000 or E9010 indicates a voltage supply problem at the range. Per official Bosch guidance, these codes require contacting the electrical utility provider — they typically indicate an issue with the household power supply rather than the range itself. Bosch ranges require a stable 240V supply (in North America) — an imbalanced, low, or noisy supply can trigger these codes.
Common Causes
- Utility power supply voltage out of specification
- One leg of the 240V supply dropped — partial power only
- Faulty breaker or connection in the home electrical panel
What You Can Try
Per Bosch: contact your electrical utility provider. Additionally, have a licensed electrician check the dedicated circuit and breaker for the range. Confirm the outlet is delivering correct 240V split-phase voltage. Do not use the range while experiencing power supply abnormalities — voltage problems can damage control electronics.
F5
Cooking Zone Residual Heat Sensor Fault
Hot surface indicator sensor issue — power level flashes with signal tone
What This Means
F5 on a Bosch range cooktop appears with the power level display flashing and a signal tone — indicating a fault with the residual heat sensor for a cooking zone. The residual heat sensor is responsible for displaying the "H" (hot surface) indicator on the cooktop after cooking. Without it, the hot surface warning may not display correctly, creating a safety risk.
Common Causes
- Residual heat sensor failed after thermal cycling
- Sensor connector loose in the cooktop electronics module
What You Can Try
Power off the range and reset. If F5 returns, professional diagnosis is required. Do not ignore this code — if the hot surface indicator is not functioning, burns from an apparently cool cooktop surface are a risk. Contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904.
Cooktop & Rangetop
Error codes for Bosch electric, gas, and induction cooktops. Induction cooktops are most likely to display error codes — gas cooktops typically only show ignition or sensor faults.
E0/E1
IND.
IND.
No Compatible Cookware / Zone Sensor Fault
E0 = no cookware detected; E1 = induction sensor fault
What This Means
E0 on a Bosch induction cooktop means no compatible cookware was detected on the active zone — induction only heats ferromagnetic pots and pans (the magnet test: a magnet must stick to the bottom of the pan). E1 indicates an induction zone sensor fault — the internal sensor that detects cookware and regulates the zone has failed. The zone will not heat while E1 is displayed.
Common Causes
- E0: Cookware placed too far off-center; non-induction cookware used; pan too small for the zone
- E1: Zone temperature or coil sensor failed; spill infiltrating the electronics
What You Can Try
For E0: Verify your cookware is induction-compatible using the magnet test. Center the pot on the zone. Try a larger pot that fully covers the induction zone. For E1: Power off the cooktop at the wall for 5 minutes. If E1 returns, the zone requires professional inspection — avoid using other zones near a fault zone until diagnosed.
F1/F6
HEAT
HEAT
Zone Electronics Overheated
Electronics thermal protection triggered — shared with Range section above
What This Means
F1 and F6 appear on Bosch cooktops in the same way as on ranges — the cooking zone electronics have reached their thermal protection limit. See the Range & Stove section F1/F6 entry above for full details. On standalone cooktops, poor ventilation in the built-in cabinet cutout is a particularly common contributing factor.
Common Causes
- Extended high-power cooking on one or multiple zones simultaneously
- Cabinet cutout restricting ventilation underneath the cooktop
What You Can Try
Turn off the zone and allow to cool for 10–15 minutes before resuming. Verify the cooktop's cabinet cutout dimensions match Bosch installation specifications — insufficient clearance prevents proper heat dissipation. If F1/F6 recur frequently, check that the vent openings beneath the cooktop are not blocked by debris or a misaligned cabinet panel.
Washing Machine
Error codes for Bosch front-load and compact washer models. E17 and E18 are the most frequently reported codes — both are often DIY-fixable.
E17
F17
F17
Water Supply / Inlet Error
Machine not filling with water — supply valve or inlet filter issue
What This Means
E17 or F17 means the washing machine is not receiving sufficient water from the household supply. The machine fills at the start of a cycle and detects the fill level — if sufficient water is not detected within the time limit, E17 appears and the cycle stops. This is one of the most common and easiest to resolve Bosch washer codes.
Common Causes
- Water supply tap behind or beneath the washer turned off or not fully open
- Inlet hose kinked or trapped behind the machine
- Mesh filters in the inlet hose connections clogged with mineral deposits
- Water pressure too low — supply pressure must be at least 1 bar (15 psi)
- Faulty water inlet solenoid valve not opening when energized
What You Can Try
Confirm the water supply tap is fully open. Check the inlet hose for kinks. Turn off the water and disconnect the inlet hose — check the small mesh filters at both the tap end and the machine end for mineral blockage. Clean with a brush and rinse. If the tap, hose, and filters are all clear but E17 returns, the water inlet valve solenoid requires professional testing and replacement.
E18
F18
F18
Drain Error — Water Not Draining
Most common Bosch washer code — clogged drain pump filter
What This Means
E18 or F18 is the most commonly reported Bosch washing machine error code. It indicates the machine cannot drain water at the end of a cycle. The machine will halt mid-cycle with water remaining in the drum. The root cause is almost always a clogged drain pump filter — coins, hairpins, and keys are the most frequent culprits. Clean the filter before suspecting a faulty pump.
Common Causes
- Drain pump filter clogged with coins, keys, hairpins, or lint — the most common cause by far
- Drain pump impeller jammed — cannot rotate freely
- Drain hose kinked or obstructed at the standpipe
- Pressure tube blocked — false water level reading preventing drain start
- Pump impeller freely spinning but pump motor failed
What You Can Try
First, place towels on the floor. Locate the drain pump filter access panel at the bottom front of the machine. Slowly open the filter cap — water will drain out. Remove and clean the filter thoroughly, checking for any foreign objects. Rotate the pump impeller by hand — it should spin freely with no resistance. Reinstall and run a short cycle. Check the drain hose for kinks. If E18 returns with a clean filter and free-spinning impeller, the drain pump motor requires professional replacement.
E16
F16
F16
Door Lock Error
Washing machine cannot start — door lock or latch fault
What This Means
E16 or F16 indicates a door lock fault — the interlock that secures the washing machine door during a cycle cannot engage. This prevents the machine from starting, as opening a drum full of water or a spinning drum is a safety hazard. The door lock interlock is an electromechanical device that locks the door and signals the control board that it is safe to begin.
Common Causes
- Item of clothing caught in the door seal — door not fully closing
- Door lock mechanism worn or failed electronically or mechanically
- Wiring to the door lock interlock damaged or corroded
- Control board not receiving the door lock confirmation signal
What You Can Try
Check that no clothing is caught in the door gasket. Open and firmly re-close the door — push until you hear the latch click. Power cycle for 2 minutes. If E16 returns and the door appears to close normally, the door lock interlock module requires professional replacement — it is a standard wear item on washing machines.
E02
F02
F02
Heating Error
Water not reaching the set temperature within the time limit
What This Means
E02 or F02 appears when the washing machine cannot heat water to the set temperature within the expected time. The cycle will continue without heating, but laundry will not be washed at the correct temperature. Hot wash cycles on cottons and whites rely on the heating element to sanitize and remove stains effectively.
Common Causes
- Heating element burned out or failed — most common cause
- Temperature sensor (NTC thermistor) defective — incorrect readings prevent the heater from running
- Heater relay on the control board stuck open
- Heavy scale buildup on the heating element reducing efficiency (hard water areas)
What You Can Try
Power cycle the washer for 2 minutes. If E02 returns, run a hot wash cycle with a washing machine descaler or limescale remover (drum empty) — scale deposits on the element can sometimes cause this. If E02 persists after descaling, the heating element or temperature sensor requires professional testing and replacement.
E23
Anti-Flood System Activated
AquaStop has detected a water leak — supply shut off automatically
What This Means
E23 indicates Bosch's AquaStop anti-flood system has activated — water has been detected in the machine's base tray (drip pan), triggering the flood protection float switch and automatically shutting off the water supply. The machine will not operate until the leak source is identified and the base is dried.
Common Causes
- Internal hose connection loose — water leaking inside the machine
- Door gasket/bellow damaged — water leaking during the cycle
- Drain pump housing cracked or seal failed
- Dispenser drawer tray overflowing — soap blockage
What You Can Try
Do not attempt to restart the washer while water is in the base — this risks electrical damage. Tilt the machine carefully backward to drain water from the base tray. Once drained, try a short cycle with the machine pulled forward so you can observe the base — identify where water is originating. Most internal leak sources require professional repair. After the base is empty and the leak resolved, AquaStop will reset automatically.
Dishwasher
Error codes for Bosch 300, 500, 800 and Benchmark dishwasher series. E15, E22, E24, and E25 are the most common — many are DIY-fixable with cleaning or filter maintenance.
E01–
E05
E05
Power Module Failure
Control board fault — Bosch-certified technician required
What This Means
E01 through E05 on a Bosch dishwasher indicate power module (control board) failures. E01 typically points to a pump control circuit failure; E02 to the heater relay; E03–E05 to other board-level electronic faults. Bosch has locked down the programming of replacement power modules — replacement boards must be configured by a Bosch-certified technician. Standard dishwasher reset procedures will not resolve these codes.
Common Causes
- Control board component failure — relay, capacitor, or processor fault
- Power surge damaging the board electronics
- Water infiltration into the control board housing
What You Can Try
Reset power to the breaker for 30 seconds. If E01–E05 return, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 or book a Bosch-certified technician. Do not attempt to replace the control board without Bosch technician programming — replacement modules will not function until configured.
E14
Flow Meter / Water Inlet Fault
Flow sensor cannot detect water entering the dishwasher
What This Means
E14 indicates the flow meter (reed switch sensor) cannot detect water flowing into the dishwasher. The flow meter monitors the exact amount of water entering each cycle — if it fails, the dishwasher cannot fill correctly and the wash cycle cannot start. The dishwasher may also display E14 if the water inlet valve is faulty or the filters are completely clogged.
Common Causes
- Reed switch flow sensor failed — no signal to the control board
- Water inlet valve not opening — electrical or mechanical fault
- Filter system completely clogged — preventing any water flow
- Water supply turned off or pressure too low
What You Can Try
Verify the water supply is turned on and pressure is adequate. Clean the dishwasher filters and check the inlet hose for kinks. Reset the breaker for 30 seconds. If E14 returns with confirmed water supply, the flow meter reed switch contacts or the inlet valve requires professional replacement.
E15
Water in Base — AquaStop Activated
Leak detected in the dishwasher base — flood protection engaged
What This Means
E15 is one of the most commonly encountered Bosch dishwasher error codes. It means the AquaStop float switch in the dishwasher's base pan has been triggered by water accumulation — flood protection has activated and the water supply is cut off. The dishwasher will not operate until the base is emptied. Importantly, E15 can sometimes be triggered by a small residual amount of water even without an active leak — tipping the dishwasher can clear it.
Common Causes
- Internal hose connection loose — water accumulating in the base over many cycles
- Door gasket damaged — water escaping during the wash cycle
- Drain pump seal failed — water leaking into the base
- Dispenser drawer blockage causing overflow into the base
- Residual water from a previous minor leak — base still damp
What You Can Try
Tilt the dishwasher approximately 45 degrees backward (have towels ready) to drain water from the base tray — this can clear E15 if only a small residual amount triggered the float. Once tilted back and the error clears, run a short cycle while watching for visible leaks. If E15 returns, locate the leak source before the next wash — check the door seal, hose connections, and pump area. A persistent active leak requires professional diagnosis and repair.
E22
Drain Filter Blocked
Fine filter in the sump is clogged — clean the filter system
What This Means
E22 indicates the fine mesh filter in the dishwasher sump (the lowest point of the tub) is blocked with food particles, grease, or debris. When the filter is fully clogged, water cannot drain correctly from the sump — residual dirty water remains in the bottom of the dishwasher and the drain pump struggles. E22 is entirely user-serviceable and very common in dishwashers where the filter is not cleaned regularly.
Common Causes
- Filter not cleaned regularly — food debris accumulation
- Large food particles bypassing pre-rinsing and clogging the fine mesh
- Calcium/mineral buildup on the filter reducing flow
- Broken glass or hard debris damaging the filter mesh
What You Can Try
Remove the bottom rack. Unscrew or twist out the cylindrical filter assembly from the bottom of the tub (consult your model's manual for the exact removal method). Clean all filter components under warm running water — use a soft brush to remove stubborn food deposits. Check the flat mesh filter beneath the cylindrical filter for clogging. Soak in white vinegar for 15 minutes to dissolve mineral buildup. Reinstall correctly and run a short cycle. Bosch recommends cleaning the filter monthly.
E24
E25
E25
Dishwasher Not Draining
E24 = drain hose issue; E25 = drain pump or sump blocked
What This Means
E24 and E25 both indicate the dishwasher cannot drain, but with different root causes. E24 typically points to a blocked or kinked drain hose — water cannot exit through the drain path. E25 indicates the drain pump itself is blocked or the pump pipe at the base is clogged — the pump runs but cannot move water. Both codes often appear together or alternate on restart.
Common Causes
- E24: Drain hose kinked, crushed, or clogged; sewer drain connection blocked; garbage disposal plug not removed
- E25: Drain pump pipe blocked with debris; pump impeller jammed; pump cover loose
- Both: Filter system not cleaned, causing back pressure on the drain path
What You Can Try
For E24: Inspect the drain hose (usually visible at the rear) for kinks. Check where the drain hose connects to the garbage disposal or standpipe — if connecting to a new garbage disposal, ensure the knockout plug is removed. For E25: Remove the filter system and check the pump cover at the bottom of the tub — the cover should be firmly seated. Remove any debris visible at the pump inlet. For both: Clean the entire filter system first (see E22). If connected to a garbage disposal, run it before starting the dishwasher. If E24/E25 persist after all cleaning, the drain pump requires professional service.
E06
Door Mechanism Fault
Door lock sensor or switch not detecting properly closed door
What This Means
E06 indicates the door sensor or switch that detects whether the dishwasher door is locked before starting a cycle is damaged or not registering. The dishwasher cannot begin or complete a cycle if the door lock is not confirmed — this prevents water from escaping a door that opens mid-cycle.
Common Causes
- Item of cutlery or a container obstruction preventing the door from fully latching
- Door latch hook worn or broken
- Door latch switch defective — latch engages but switch doesn't signal
What You Can Try
Check the upper rack and any tall items to confirm nothing is blocking the door from closing fully. Close the door firmly. Inspect the door latch catch on the dishwasher frame for visible damage or obstruction. Power cycle for 2 minutes. If E06 returns with a door that fully closes, the latch switch requires professional replacement.
H01
H02
H02
Delayed Start Active
Not an error — delayed start timer has been set
What This Means
H01 and H02 are not error codes — they are delay indicators. H01 means the dishwasher is set to start in 1 hour; H02 means 2 hours. These appear when you have programmed a delayed start, which is a standard feature allowing you to run the dishwasher during off-peak electricity hours. No action is required.
Common Causes
- Delayed start function selected before pressing Start
What You Can Try
Wait for the delayed start time to elapse and the dishwasher will start automatically. To cancel the delay and start immediately, press and hold the Start/Cancel button for 3 seconds (method varies by model — consult your user manual). The dishwasher will then begin its cycle immediately.