Repair of Bosch dishwashers: decoding error codes, causes and troubleshooting

You should not repair Bosch dishwashers that are under warranty yourself.It is better to notify the service center about the current situation and wait for the technicians to arrive from there and fix all the problems.

If the warranty period has expired, you can try to fix some problems yourself, having previously determined the causes and location of the fault using the alphanumeric error code. What malfunction does this or that code correspond to and what steps can be taken in a particular situation? We will talk about this in detail in our article.

The most common error codes

The latest lines of kitchen appliances from the German concern are equipped with a progressive self-diagnosis system. It monitors the correct functioning of the appliances, and immediately displays all possible error codes for Bosch dishwashers on the LCD screen in the form of an alphanumeric abbreviation.

Typical problems that are considered typical for Bosch units are indicated by the English letter “E” and one or two numbers. This facilitates the troubleshooting process, allows you to understand what exactly happened to the equipment and how to correct this situation.

The display has a bright, visible and clearly visible indication. The error code that appears on it looks clear, and it is not difficult to examine it correctly. If a serious problem is detected, the program turns off the machine

In some models, instead of the letter “E”, “F” is used, and the digital indicator remains the same.

Code group #1 - complications with water heating

E01 indicates damage to the heating element or a violation of the structural integrity of the heating element circuit. Most likely, this element has burned out, and for further correct operation it requires replacing the heating element. At the same time, you should check the temperature sensor and make sure that it is capable of providing reliable information.

E2 sometimes alternates with E01 pops up on the work screen. This usually indicates that the internal water temperature sensor is faulty. In this option, the heater will operate at full power, since indicators of the heating level will not be able to enter the control unit. If the problem is not resolved in time, the problem will overload the heating element and cause it to burn out.

To determine if a temperature sensor is faulty, you need to check the resistance level at its contacts. Typically this element has a base reading of about 55 kOhm at 21 °C. Deviation to lower values ​​clearly indicates a breakdown

E09 indicates problems with the flow-through heater. Most often, this error is recorded by models with a heating element located deep in the circular pump. To resolve the issue, it is necessary to conduct a detailed diagnosis of the heating element using a multimeter. If the resistance is zero, the heater will need to be replaced.

E11 says that the temperature sensor is not receiving power, for example, due to a breakdown in communication between it and the control module.

This is caused by several reasons, so the user will have to check for damage such components as:

• working contacts of the temperature sensor;
• wiring coming from the temperature sensor;
• control module contact elements.

If problem areas are visually detected, you will need to disconnect the machine from the power supply and only then begin to troubleshoot the problems that have arisen.

E12 appears on the display of dishwashers at the moment when the heating element is overloaded as a result of a large amount of dirt deposited on it or scale deposits. After resetting the dishwasher, the code sometimes changes to E09, but regardless of the numbers, it indicates the same problem.

The heating element can be cleaned from dirt and scale at home. However, to get to it, you will need to partially disassemble the dishwasher, remove the heating element, remove dirt and then return the part to its place.

During repair work, basic safety rules must be strictly observed and the device must be disconnected from the power supply to avoid injury and burns.

Group of codes #2 - problems with blockages

The formation of various types of blockages is a weak point in all respects of reliable and high-quality Bosch kitchen cleaning equipment. These unpleasant moments happen, as a rule, due to the fault of users who neglect to remove food residues from the dishes before loading them into the washing unit.

E7, displayed on the display, stands for “inability to pump water out of the tank as a result of a clogged drain hole.”

There may be several reasons causing this situation, for example:

• improperly stacked dishes;
• an object blocking the water outlet;
• blockage of the drain with food debris and fat deposits.

To eliminate the error code, simply fold the dishes more carefully, remove objects that could potentially block the water drain hole, and clear the surrounding area of ​​anything that interferes with the outflow of liquid. After these steps, the unit will work normally again.

Even if the Bosch machine is functioning properly, it is better to monitor the cleanliness of the filter, trying to prevent it from becoming dirty. This simple procedure will help extend the life of the unit and ensure high-quality washing of dishes throughout the entire operational period

E22 usually indicates that one of the unit's internal filters is dirty. In this case, it is necessary to replace the clogged filters with new ones. The same code is sometimes displayed when there are problems with the drain pump, for example, in the case of a decreased impeller rotation speed. This requires a more in-depth diagnosis, similar to troubleshooting E21.

Error with code E24 for Bosch brand dishwashers, this is interpreted as a kink, crease or blockage in the drain hose, contamination of the sewer drain or blockage of the drain siphon. The reasons for its occurrence can be very different, and often this abbreviation appears in parallel with E22.

If the cause of error E24 is a clogged or broken hose, it is advisable to replace it with a new one as quickly as possible. It is worth choosing a durable, operationally resistant element of appropriate dimensions

Eliminating a problem like this is not difficult. It is enough to simply visually detect one of the above problems and fix it yourself or with the help of a service center employee.

E25 gives a signal that food waste and other waste elements have accumulated in the nozzle of the pump or at the base of the drain hose, preventing the passage of water. As a result, the pump's power decreased and it lost its ability to fully remove used liquid to the drain.

If E25 and E22 light up alternately on the screen, you need to remove the dishes, gain access to the pump impeller part and see if there is any food waste wrapped around it. Perhaps they are the ones who slow down the movement

The next situation is that the corresponding sensors detected the problem and sent data to the control unit of the unit. As a result, the abbreviation lit up on the display E25, and the dishwasher stopped performing its direct functions.

To eliminate the malfunction, you need to disconnect the device from the power supply and water supply system, thoroughly clean the nozzle and drain hose from sediment and blockages, while simultaneously checking the pump impeller element for entanglement with foreign waste elements.

A video with instructions for eliminating error 25 will help independent professionals cope with the task:

Group of codes #3 - problems with water intake/drainage

E3 stops the operation of the machine when, within the framework of a certain specified program, it is not possible to draw water into the chamber within the allotted period of time. In the latest Bosch models, in this situation, the working fluid is first drained by itself, and only then an alphanumeric problem code appears on the screen.

In products without a display, released 7-10 years ago, the process is the other way around. If an error appears on the Bosch dishwasher display "Tap", first the problem is solved, and then the container is filled with liquid.

Poor condition, kinks and breaks in the hose connecting the home assistant to the water supply system can prevent liquid from flowing into the washing chamber. If this is the reason, the element must be carefully disconnected and replaced with a new one.

To resolve the issue, you need to check the presence of water in the central supply system. If everything is in order with this, you should pay attention to the filters located at the entrance to the dishwasher directly in front of the inlet hose and establish the correct operation of the valve and water level sensor. At the end, you can take a look at how the pump functions, because sometimes it is what causes the E3 error code to appear on the screen.

E5 gives a clear signal that the unit's tank is full of water. This happens when the water level sensor fails and cannot stop the filling process at the right time. To eliminate the problem, you need to carefully inspect the sensor and find out whether its tube is clogged with dirt and food debris, whether the working contacts have melted and whether the wiring has burned out.

If everything is fine with the indicated components, it’s worth working on the fill valve. Perhaps, for some reason, it cannot completely close and block water from entering the tank.

Sometimes the cause of the E5 code is a problem in the control unit of the dishwasher. It is highly undesirable to fix such problems yourself. It is better to entrust the work to a qualified specialist from a Bosch service center

E8 is in many ways similar to error E3 and manifests itself in exactly the same way - the dishwasher does not fill the required amount of water into the tray. Because of this, the circular pump cannot turn on correctly, and the heating element loses its ability to start working.The search for the causes of the malfunction is carried out according to the principle described for code E3.

E16 indicates the inability of the equipment to block the access of liquid to the washing tank. Water is poured into the car uncontrollably, contrary to the established regime. This situation is usually caused by debris getting into the intake valve. Large particles do not allow the partition to close tightly, and water continues to seep inside even when the machine is not running.

To fix the problem, you need to carefully inspect the fill valve, remove large particles of dirt and clean the surrounding area. Then you need to check the serviceability of the water level sensor and find out if there is excess foam from the detergent in the tank.

E17 indicates that the dishwasher is not filling correctly with water. This type of error is more rare and narrow-profile. This usually occurs due to the inlet valve blocking the water with great force or not being able to close at all due to excessive fluid pressure. Then you need to partially shut off the water in the riser pipes, thereby reducing the overall pressure in the system.

In case of general failures in the water or electricity supply system, you can also see an error code. In this case, it is enough to reboot the equipment, and it will return to normal, stable operation.

Sometimes the appearance of code E17 is not caused by mechanical problems, but by failures of a completely different nature, for example, water hammer.

If a malfunction is not detected, it is appropriate to check the sensor that measures the amount of water supplied to the tank. Perhaps the problem lies precisely there and this particular element is the reason for the appearance of code E17 on the screen.

E21 draws the user's attention to the fact that the machine's pump stops working correctly, preventing the unit from draining water in a timely manner. A situation arises when the pump receives full power, interaction with the control unit and sensors occurs in normal mode, but the drain is not carried out and the water remains in the tank.

In search of a problem, it is worth checking the impeller. Perhaps it stopped rotating because some foreign elements were wrapped around the base or blades and jammed the correct movement. Either the rotor is stuck to the walls of the hub and needs to be thoroughly cleaned and lubricated. Sometimes this is indicated by a change in the error code value from E21 to E22.

Replacing the pump in Bosch dishwashers is quite acceptable, but only with an original part with exactly the same factory markings that were on the faulty appliance. Otherwise, you should not count on high-quality operation of the module.

But most often the problem is the operational wear of the pump mechanism, which interferes with the pumping/pumping of working water. The solution to the problem is elementary - you need to remove the old pump and replace it with a new one.

Code group #4 - electrical faults

The electrical system of modern Bosch units consists of a large number of various sensors and connecting parts. One burnt terminal or frayed short wire creates a lot of difficulties and causes the screen to light up with different error codes.

E01 And E30 talk about failures in electrical or electronic systems. The simplest solution is to reboot the unit using the “on/off” activation button.If the error indication disappears, it means that a basic failure has occurred and work can continue as usual.

You can try to identify the cause of the malfunction in the dishwasher's electronic system yourself. However, this will take a lot of time, since the home handyman will have to conduct a visual check of all the wiring and terminals present in the device

When error codes continue to appear repeatedly, you need to contact a service center and invite a qualified technician to your home. He will carry out diagnostics using special devices, identify and eliminate detected problems.

E27 usually “pops up” in those machines that are connected directly to the electrics. The abbreviation appears on the screen after a power surge occurs in the network. If the code becomes a frequent occurrence, it's worth buying stabilizer and connect the dishwasher through it, thus protecting the unit from a possible short circuit.

Group of codes #5 - failure of switches and sensors

Water sensors and switches help monitor the operation of the dishwasher and manage the processes of various programs. When these parts break, the internal diagnostic system recognizes this and displays error codes describing the problems.

E4 reports that the control sensor responsible for the pressure and flow of water supplied to the sprinkler does not cope with its functions. The reason lies in a mechanical fault or blockage. It is possible that running water that is too hard clogs the nozzles and liquid does not flow through them. Cleaning the passage elements or replacing the sensor usually solves this issue.

E6 draws attention to the incorrect operation of the water purity sensor.Sometimes replacing burnt contacts helps correct the situation, but most often the element simply has to be replaced with a new one.

You can check the performance of the sensors yourself, but a professional technician will do it more accurately; in addition, he always has a set of necessary tools with him

E14 indicates a malfunction of the sensor responsible for the amount of water entering the dishwasher tank. It is not advisable to change or repair it yourself. Let a Bosch service center employee invited to your home do this.

Error with code E15 Bosch dishwasher indicates that the built-in Aquastop system is malfunctioning, and the sensor detects a leak. In this case, you need to inspect the unit pan, hoses and adjacent elements to identify the problem area. When it is found, the problem can only be eliminated by replacing or repairing the failed part. We recommend that you familiarize yourself with information on where to look and how to choose quality spare parts for dishwashers.

The video presents what error E15 means in Bosch dishwashers, and briefly explains how to eliminate the problem and return the machine to working order:

Main causes of typical malfunctions

Even such reliable equipment as Bosch can fail for completely banal, everyday reasons, for example, due to loading excessively dirty dishes into the washing chamber. Residues of food washed away by the flow of water will clog the filter and cause clogging.

If the loaded dishes are too dirty and greasy, the unit will not be able to rinse them efficiently, and the housewife will have to additionally rinse the plates and cups by hand

To avoid this situation, it is better to first clean the food left on the plates before placing them in the machine.

An incorrect connection to the electrical network and a faulty socket have a bad effect on the dishwasher. A drain hose that is too long or poorly secured in the water supply area can also create problems, so installation and installation should be entrusted to professionals.

If the home master wants to do this himself, he must strictly follow installation instructions and strictly comply with the requirements specified by the manufacturer in the passport attached to the unit.

Dishwasher detergent must have a normal shelf life. It is recommended to buy it in a specialized store where the rules for storing household chemicals are observed.

A lot of inconveniences, and subsequently problems, are caused by improper loading of dishes into the washing chamber. Many users do not pay attention to this point and then encounter various problems.

In order for the washing process to proceed normally, the dishes in the sections must be placed compactly. Then it will not interfere with the rotation of the irrigation rockers, the timely opening of the dispenser, the free passage and uniform flow of water

Before loading plates, cups and cutlery, please read carefully instructions for loading dishes and take into account all the wishes put forward by the manufacturer of the equipment.

Dishes placed correctly will be perfectly washed and will not require any additional action from the housewife. In this case, the machine will not feel overload and will serve well throughout the entire operational period.

We recommend that you read operating rules Bosch dishwashers in order to avoid future problems due to their violation.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Video about typical dishwasher malfunctions and ways to deal with them:

How to repair a Bosch dishwasher at home that has stopped pouring water. Detailed breakdown of the process step by step. Useful tips and recommendations from an experienced master.

The circular pump in a Bosch dishwasher has failed. The video will tell you what to do in this case: a method for disassembling the unit to quickly fix the problem:

Bosch dishwashing equipment is reliable and works perfectly throughout the entire operating period. Breakdowns and malfunctions most often occur in it due to user actions.

To avoid these moments, you should pay more attention to the device and regularly carry out preventive measures. If a problem arises, you can try to fix it yourself or contact a service center and entrust the work to professionals.

Would you like to tell us about your experience in repairing a Bosch brand dishwasher? Or would you like to supplement our material with information that we did not mention in this publication? Write your additions, comments and recommendations in the block located below the article.