Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes: Full Guide

Bosch dishwashers use E-codes (E01 through E27 and beyond) to communicate specific faults detected by the onboard diagnostic system. These codes appear on the display panel automatically when a problem is detected. Here's a comprehensive guide to what the most common Bosch error codes mean and what to do about each one.

How to Reset a Bosch Dishwasher

Before acting on any error code, try a reset: press and hold the Start button for 3--5 seconds to cancel the current cycle and reset the display. For a full power reset, turn off the dishwasher at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds. If the code clears and doesn't return, it was a transient fault.

Common Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

E15 --- Water Leak Detected (AquaStop)

This is Bosch's anti-flood protection code. Water has been detected in the base pan underneath the dishwasher, triggering the AquaStop system. The dishwasher will not run while E15 is active.

First step: tilt the dishwasher slightly forward (with the door closed) to drain the base pan water. If the code clears and doesn't return, it may have been a one-time splash. If E15 returns, there is an active leak that needs to be located and repaired --- common sources include the door gasket, inlet hose, or pump area. Turn off the water supply and call a technician.

E22 --- Filter Clogged

The dishwasher filter is clogged and restricting water flow. This is one of the most common and easily resolved Bosch codes. Remove and clean the filter under warm running water with a soft brush. Reinstall securely and run a cycle.

E24 --- Drain Fault

The dishwasher cannot drain within the expected time. Check the drain hose for kinks, confirm the drain hose has a proper high loop, clean the filter, and check that the garbage disposal (if connected) is not blocked. Most E24 errors resolve after these steps.

E25 --- Drain Pump Blocked

A foreign object --- glass shard, food bone, label --- is blocking the drain pump impeller. Remove the filter to access the pump cover, remove the pump cover, and use a flashlight to inspect the impeller. Carefully remove any foreign objects with needle-nose pliers. Reassemble and test.

E16 --- Water Inlet Fault

The dishwasher isn't filling with water properly. Check that the water supply valve under the sink is fully open. Inspect the inlet hose for kinks. Check the fine mesh filter inside the inlet valve connection --- mineral deposits can block it. Clean or replace the screen.

E17 --- Water Level Too High

The water level in the tub is above normal. This can indicate a faulty inlet valve that's not closing when it should, or a flow sensor issue. The inlet valve likely needs replacement.

E18 --- Water Level Too Low

The dishwasher isn't reaching the correct water level. Similar to E16 --- check water supply, inlet hose, and the inlet valve screen. If water supply is confirmed good, the inlet valve itself may be faulty.

E09 / E20 --- Heating Fault

The heating element has a fault. On some models this prevents the cycle from completing; on others the machine runs but water doesn't reach cleaning temperature. Heating element replacement is a technician repair.

E01 / E02 / E03 --- Control Board Faults

These codes indicate electronic control module failures. A power reset resolves them occasionally --- if the code returns, a control board or power module replacement is required. These are technician-level repairs.

Maintenance to Prevent Common Codes

• Clean the filter monthly --- prevents E22 and E24
• Check door gasket quarterly --- prevents E15
• Run a descaling cycle every 1--3 months --- prevents limescale buildup that triggers E12
• Clear spray arm jets regularly --- prevents reduced wash performance