Bosch washing machines are known for their reliability and efficiency. However, like any appliance, they can encounter issues that trigger error codes. Understanding these error codes is essential for troubleshooting and maintaining your washing machine. This article serves as a one-stop solution, detailing all possible error codes for Bosch washing machines, including their meanings, causes, and troubleshooting steps.

Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code Meaning Possible Causes Possible Fix
E01 Water supply issue Clogged inlet filter, closed water supply valve, issues with the water supply Check valve, clean filter, inspect hoses
E02 Drainage problem Clogged drain hose or filter, faulty pump Clean filter, check drain hose
E03 Door lock failure Damaged door lock or latch Inspect and replace door lock
E04 Overfilling detected Faulty water level sensor, malfunctioning inlet valve Check sensor and valve, reset system
E05 Motor issue Motor malfunction, electrical issues Check motor and electrical connections
E06 Imbalance detection Uneven distribution of laundry Redistribute load, check suspension springs
E07 Heater error Faulty heating element, temperature sensor Test heating element and sensor
E08 Water temperature error Faulty thermostat or heating element Check thermostat and heating element
E09 High voltage error Power supply issues Check power supply and connections
E10 Low water level Clogged inlet filters, issues with water supply Clean filters, ensure water supply
E11 Detergent drawer error Clogged drawer or improper loading Clean detergent drawer
E12 Sensor failure Faulty sensor or wiring issues Inspect and replace sensors
E13 Water circulation error Clogged filter or faulty pump Clean filter, check pump
E14 Suds detection Using too much detergent Use appropriate detergent amount
E15 Overflow protection activated Leaks or overfilling Inspect hoses and connections
E16 Door open error Door latch malfunction or obstruction Ensure door is closed, check latch
E17 Water inlet issue Clogged filters or closed valves Check valve, clean filters
E18 Pump error Clogged filter or malfunctioning pump Clean pump filter, check pump
E19 Heating time exceeded Faulty heating element Test heating element
E20 Unexpected heating Thermostat or wiring issues Check thermostat and wiring
E21 Overflow detected Clogged drain or faulty sensor Inspect drain and test sensor
E22 Unbalanced load Heavy items on one side of the drum Redistribute load
E23 Aquastop activated Leaks in the water supply or hose Inspect for leaks and reset
E24 Filter clogged Accumulation of debris or lint Clean filter regularly
E25 Drain hose problem Kinks or blockages Inspect and clean drain hose
E28 Flow sensor issue Dirty sensor or wiring issues Clean flow sensor and check connections
E29 Communication issue Faulty wiring or control board failure Inspect wiring, reset machine

Understanding Error Codes

Error codes in Bosch washing machines are designed to help users identify and resolve issues quickly. Each code corresponds to a specific problem, allowing for efficient troubleshooting. Addressing these errors promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your machine operates smoothly.

Error Code Categories

Door Error

E16 or F16: Door is Open

This error occurs when the washing machine detects that the door is not securely closed.

  • Possible Causes: Door latch malfunction, obstruction in the door.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check if the door is properly aligned and free of obstructions. Inspect the door latch for damage.
  • Preventive Measures: Regularly check the door and latch for wear and tear.

Pump Error

E18 or F18: Pump Time Has Exceeded Its Limits

This error indicates that the pump has been unable to remove water within the expected time frame.

  • Possible Causes: Clogged pump filter, malfunctioning motor.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the filter and ensure there are no obstructions in the pump. Check for any kinks in the drainage hose.
  • Preventive Measures: Regularly clean the filter and inspect hoses for blockages.

Heating Error

E19 or F19: Heating Time Has Been Exceeded

This error suggests that the washing machine has failed to heat water within the required time.

  • Possible Causes: Faulty heating element, sensor issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect the heating element and test for continuity. Check connections to the control board.
  • Preventive Measures: Ensure regular maintenance of heating components.

E20 or F20: Unexpected Heating in Your Washing Machine

This error occurs when the washing machine detects unexpected heating.

  • Possible Causes: Malfunctioning thermostat, wiring issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Test the thermostat for proper function. Inspect wiring for damage.
  • Preventive Measures: Regularly check wiring and connections.

Aquastop Error

E23 or F23: Aquastop Hose Has Been Activated

This error indicates that the Aquastop system has detected a leak.

  • Possible Causes: Leaks in the water supply, blocked hoses.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect hoses for leaks and clear any blockages. Reset the system by turning off the machine.
  • Preventive Measures: Regularly check hoses and connections for signs of wear.

Flow Sensor Error

E28 or F28: Flow Sensor Issue

This error signifies a problem with the flow sensor, which measures water intake.

  • Possible Causes: Dirty flow sensor, faulty connections.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the flow sensor and check for any loose connections.
  • Preventive Measures: Schedule routine cleaning and inspections of the flow sensor.

Communication Error

E56: Unexpected Communication Error in Your Washing Machine

This error indicates a failure in communication between different components of the washing machine.

  • Possible Causes: Control board failure, wiring issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Reset the washing machine and inspect the control board and wiring for faults.
  • Preventive Measures: Keep connections secure and perform regular checks on the control board.

Additional Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes

E01: Water Supply Issue

  • Description: This error indicates that the washing machine is not receiving enough water.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged inlet filter, closed water supply valve, or issues with the water supply.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check that the water supply valve is fully open, clean the inlet filter, and ensure that hoses are not kinked or blocked.

E02: Drainage Problem

  • Description: The machine is unable to drain water properly.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged drain hose or filter, faulty pump.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect and clean the drain filter, check for blockages in the drain hose, and ensure the pump is functioning.

E03: Door Lock Failure

  • Description: This error occurs when the door lock mechanism is malfunctioning.
  • Possible Causes: Damaged door lock or latch.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect the door lock for damage, and test the latch mechanism. Replace if necessary.

E04: Overfilling Detected

  • Description: The machine has detected excessive water levels.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty water level sensor or a malfunctioning inlet valve.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check the water level sensor for proper function, and inspect the inlet valve for leaks.

E05: Motor Issue

  • Description: Indicates a problem with the washing machine’s motor.
  • Possible Causes: Motor malfunction, electrical issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check for any visible damage to the motor, test electrical connections, and ensure the motor is receiving power.

E06: Imbalance Detection

  • Description: This error occurs when the load inside the drum is unbalanced.
  • Possible Causes: Uneven distribution of laundry.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Stop the cycle and redistribute the load evenly. If the issue persists, check for worn suspension springs.

E07: Heater Error

  • Description: Indicates a malfunction in the heating element.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty heating element or temperature sensor.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Test the heating element for continuity, inspect the temperature sensor, and replace any faulty components.

E08: Water Temperature Error

  • Description: This error signifies that the water temperature does not match the selected program.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty thermostat or heating element.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check the thermostat and heating element for proper operation. Replace if necessary.

E09: High Voltage Error

  • Description: Indicates that the machine has detected excessive voltage.
  • Possible Causes: Power supply issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check the power supply and connections, and consider using a voltage regulator.

E10: Low Water Level

  • Description: The machine has detected a lower-than-normal water level.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged inlet filters or issues with the water supply.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the inlet filters and ensure the water supply is functioning correctly.

E11: Detergent Drawer Error

  • Description: This error indicates a problem with the detergent drawer.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged detergent drawer or improper loading.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the detergent drawer thoroughly, ensuring no residue is blocking the flow.

E12: Sensor Failure

  • Description: Indicates that a sensor within the machine is not functioning correctly.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty sensor or wiring issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect sensors for damage, check wiring connections, and replace faulty sensors as needed.

E13: Water Circulation Error

  • Description: The machine is unable to circulate water effectively.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged filter or faulty pump.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the filter and inspect the pump for obstructions.

E14: Suds Detection

  • Description: This error indicates that excess suds have been detected during a wash cycle.
  • Possible Causes: Using too much detergent or incorrect detergent type.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Use the appropriate amount of HE detergent and run a rinse cycle to clear excess suds.

E15: Overflow Protection Activated

  • Description: The machine has detected a potential overflow condition.
  • Possible Causes: Leaks or overfilling.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect hoses and connections for leaks, and ensure the water supply is functioning properly.

E16: Door Open Error (duplicate of E16/F16)

  • Description: The machine cannot start because the door is open.
  • Possible Causes: Door latch malfunction or obstruction.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Ensure the door is securely closed and check the latch for any issues.

E17: Water Inlet Issue

  • Description: Indicates a problem with the water inlet system.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged filters or closed valves.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check the water supply valve and clean the inlet filters.

E18: Pump Error (duplicate of E18/F18)

  • Description: The pump has failed to drain water effectively.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged filter or malfunctioning pump.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the pump filter and inspect the pump for damage.

E19: Heating Time Exceeded (duplicate of E19/F19)

  • Description: The washing machine has failed to heat water in the expected time frame.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty heating element.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Test the heating element for functionality.

E20: Unexpected Heating (duplicate of E20/F20)

  • Description: Indicates that the machine has detected unexpected heating.
  • Possible Causes: Thermostat or wiring issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Check the thermostat and inspect the wiring.

E21: Overflow Detected

  • Description: The machine has detected an overflow condition.
  • Possible Causes: Clogged drain or faulty sensor.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect the drain for blockages and test the overflow sensor.

E22: Unbalanced Load

  • Description: This error indicates that the load in the drum is unbalanced.
  • Possible Causes: Heavy items on one side of the drum.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Stop the cycle and redistribute the load evenly.

E23: Aquastop Activated (duplicate of E23/F23)

  • Description: Indicates that the Aquastop system has detected a leak.
  • Possible Causes: Leaks in the water supply or hose.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect for leaks and reset the system.

E24: Filter Clogged

  • Description: The filter is clogged, preventing proper drainage.
  • Possible Causes: Accumulation of debris or lint.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogs.

E25: Drain Hose Problem

  • Description: Indicates an issue with the drain hose.
  • Possible Causes: Kinks or blockages.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect the drain hose for kinks and clean any blockages.

E28: Flow Sensor Issue (duplicate of E28/F28)

  • Description: Indicates a problem with the flow sensor.
  • Possible Causes: Dirty sensor or wiring issues.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Clean the flow sensor and check connections.

E29: Communication Issue

  • Description: Indicates a failure in communication between the control board and other components.
  • Possible Causes: Faulty wiring or control board failure.
  • Troubleshooting Steps: Inspect wiring for damage and reset the machine.

Conclusion

Understanding Bosch washing machine error codes is crucial for efficient troubleshooting and maintenance. This comprehensive guide covers all possible error codes, helping you identify issues and resolve them quickly.