Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes Decoded

Bosch dishwashers display error codes when the control system detects problems that prevent normal operation. Known for their reliability, Bosch units communicate issues through a standardized “E” code system. This guide covers the most common error codes and detailed repair instructions.

How Bosch Error Codes Work

Bosch uses a consistent E + two-digit numbering system:

• E01-E09: Heating and sensor errors
• E14-E19: Water detection and overflow errors
• E22-E25: Drainage errors
• E01: Often heating-related
• E09: Heating system fault

The code appears on the display or is indicated by a pattern of blinking lights on models without digital displays. For non-display models, you may need to count blinks to identify the code.

Model Coverage

This guide covers commonly reported error codes for:

• Bosch 100 Series: SHEM, SHE2 models (2016-2024)
• Bosch 300 Series: SHP, SHE3 models (2016-2024)
• Bosch 500 Series: SHP5, SHPM5 models (2016-2024)
• Bosch 800 Series: SHP8, SHPM8 models (2016-2024)
• Bosch Benchmark series

Error code meanings are generally consistent across series, but always verify using Bosch’s support website or your owner’s manual for your specific model.

Error Code Reference Table

Code	Meaning	Severity	Quick Action
E01	Heating fault	Medium	Heating element or sensor issue
E09	Heating system error	Medium-High	Heating element failure
E14	Flow meter error	Medium	Water supply or sensor issue
E15	Water in base pan	High	Tilt to drain base pan
E16	Unwanted water fill	High	Inlet valve stuck open
E17	Overfilling	High	Check water inlet valve
E18	Low water	Medium	Water supply issue
E19	Circulation pump error	Medium	Pump or heat issue
E22	Filter blocked	Medium	Clean filter assembly
E24	Drain blocked	Medium	Check drain hose and filter
E25	Drain pump issue	Medium	Pump blocked or faulty
E27	Low voltage	Medium	Check electrical supply

Common Error Codes: Detailed Troubleshooting

E15 - Water in Base Pan (AquaStop)

What it means: Bosch dishwashers have a flood protection system called AquaStop. A float sensor in the base pan has detected water, indicating a leak. The dishwasher locks out operation to prevent water damage.

Common causes:

• Leaking door seal
• Loose or damaged hose connection inside the unit
• Cracked spray arm
• Overfilling from inlet valve issue
• Excessive suds from using wrong detergent

Step-by-step fix:

1. Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it (or turn off the breaker)
2. Turn off the water supply valve under the sink
3. Place towels around the dishwasher base
4. Carefully tilt the dishwasher backward about 45 degrees (you’ll need a helper)
5. Water should drain from the base pan—have towels ready to absorb it
6. Hold the tilted position for 30-60 seconds until water stops draining
7. Return the dishwasher to level position
8. Open the door and check the door gasket for damage or debris
9. Inspect inside for obvious signs of where water leaked
10. Allow the base pan to dry for several hours (or use towels to absorb moisture if accessible)
11. Restore power and water supply
12. Run a short test cycle and watch for leaks

Tools needed: Towels, helper for tilting

Safety note: Water weighs approximately 8 lbs per gallon—a full base pan can be heavy. Get help when tilting. Always unplug before tilting.

When to call a tech: If E15 recurs shortly after clearing, there’s an active leak. Internal leaks from pump seals, spray arm connections, or tub cracks require professional repair. Repeated E15 errors should not be ignored—water damage to floors and cabinetry can be expensive.

E24 - Drain Blocked

What it means: The dishwasher cannot drain water within the expected timeframe. Water remains in the tub after the drain phase.

Common causes:

• Clogged drain filter (most common)
• Kinked drain hose
• Blocked air gap (if installed)
• Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed
• Drain pump blockage
• High drain loop not installed

Step-by-step fix:

1. Cancel the cycle and open the door (water may be standing in the tub)
2. Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water
3. Remove the bottom rack
4. Locate the filter assembly in the bottom of the tub
5. Turn the cylindrical filter counterclockwise and lift out
6. Remove the flat mesh filter beneath it
7. Clean both filters thoroughly under running water—use a soft brush to remove debris
8. Check the sump area (where filters sit) for broken glass, food debris, or foreign objects
9. Reinstall filters—ensure they’re properly seated and locked
10. Pull the dishwasher out and inspect the drain hose
11. Ensure the hose isn’t kinked and has a high loop (should rise to countertop height before going down to disposal/drain)
12. If connected to a garbage disposal, verify the knockout plug was removed during installation
13. Run a test rinse cycle to verify drainage

Tools needed: Towels, soft brush, wet/dry vacuum (helpful)

Safety note: Unplug before pulling the dishwasher out. The drain hose may contain residual water when disconnected.

When to call a tech: If filters are clean, the drain hose is clear, and the air gap/disposal connection is correct, the drain pump itself may be faulty. You may hear humming (pump trying but failing) or silence (pump not activating). Pump replacement is a moderate repair.

E09 - Heating Element Failure

What it means: The heating element isn’t reaching expected temperatures, or the control board has detected a fault in the heating circuit.

Common causes:

• Failed heating element
• Heating element thermostat/sensor failure
• Loose wiring connection
• Control board issue
• Limescale buildup on heating element (hard water areas)

Step-by-step fix:

1. Unplug the dishwasher for 5 minutes
2. Plug back in and run a hot water cycle
3. Before starting, run hot water at the kitchen sink until it’s hot—this gives the dishwasher warm water to start
4. After the cycle, feel the inside of the tub and dishes—they should be warm/hot
5. Check if dishes are drying properly—no heat means poor drying
6. If the problem persists, the heating element or its controls need testing

Tools needed: None for initial troubleshooting

Safety note: The heating element operates at high temperatures. Never touch it during or immediately after operation.

When to call a tech: Heating element testing requires a multimeter to check continuity. If the element has failed, it must be replaced—this involves removing the sump assembly, which is a professional-level repair on Bosch dishwashers.

E22 - Filter Blocked

What it means: Water cannot circulate properly due to filter blockage. This is similar to E24 but specifically related to filter condition rather than the drain system.

Common causes:

• Heavily clogged filter
• Filter not properly installed
• Debris in sump area blocking circulation

Step-by-step fix:

1. Follow the filter cleaning steps in E24 troubleshooting
2. Pay extra attention to the mesh filter—fine particles can block the mesh
3. Ensure filters are installed correctly with the cylindrical filter twisted and locked in place
4. Run a test cycle

Tools needed: Soft brush

When to call a tech: If filters are clean and properly installed but E22 persists, there may be a sensor issue or circulation pump problem.

E25 - Drain Pump Issue

What it means: The drain pump motor is blocked or has failed.

Common causes:

• Foreign object jammed in pump impeller
• Broken glass in pump housing
• Pump motor failure
• Pump impeller broken

Step-by-step fix:

1. Complete all steps for E24 (filter cleaning, hose check)
2. With filters removed, look deeper into the sump—use a flashlight
3. Check for any visible debris that might be jamming the pump impeller
4. Some models have an access cover over the pump impeller—remove it carefully
5. Remove any visible debris (use caution with glass)
6. Reinstall components and test

Tools needed: Flashlight, possibly needle-nose pliers

Safety note: Broken glass is common in dishwasher pumps. Work carefully and consider wearing gloves.

When to call a tech: If the impeller area is clear but E25 persists, the pump motor has likely failed. You may hear a humming sound (motor energizing but not turning) or complete silence. Pump replacement requires removing the dishwasher and accessing the base.

E14 / E16 / E17 - Water Fill Issues

What these mean:

• E14: Flow meter not detecting water flow
• E16: Water filling when it shouldn’t (inlet valve stuck open)
• E17: Overfilling detected

Common causes:

• Water supply valve closed or partially closed
• Failed inlet valve (stuck open or closed)
• Flow meter malfunction
• Control board issue

Step-by-step fix:

1. Verify the water supply valve under the sink is fully open
2. Check the inlet hose for kinks
3. For E16/E17, turn off the water supply immediately to stop overfilling
4. Unplug the dishwasher
5. If accessible, inspect the inlet valve hose connection inside the dishwasher
6. Allow several hours for sensors to dry if overfilling occurred
7. Restore power and test

Tools needed: Possibly a flashlight

When to call a tech: Water inlet valve issues (stuck open/closed) require valve replacement. This is a common repair that involves accessing the valve at the bottom of the unit.

How to Reset Your Bosch Dishwasher

Bosch dishwashers have several reset methods:

Method 1: Start Button Reset

1. Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds
2. The display should clear and return to standby
3. Select a new cycle and start

Method 2: Power Reset

1. Turn off the circuit breaker for the dishwasher
2. Wait 1-2 minutes
3. Turn the breaker back on
4. The dishwasher should be reset

Method 3: Cancel/Drain

1. Press and hold the Cancel or Drain button
2. This forces a drain cycle and clears the current program
3. Wait for the drain cycle to complete before starting a new wash

Reading Error Codes on Non-Display Models

Some Bosch models indicate errors through blinking lights:

1. Count the number of blinks (pattern repeats)
2. The number of blinks often corresponds to the error number
3. For example, 15 blinks = E15
4. Check your owner’s manual for the specific blink pattern guide

Maintenance to Prevent Errors

Regular maintenance reduces error frequency:

• Monthly: Clean the filter assembly thoroughly
• Monthly: Run a dishwasher cleaner to remove grease and limescale
• Check regularly: Door gasket for debris or damage
• Check regularly: Spray arm holes for clogs (use a toothpick to clear)
• Annual: Inspect drain hose connection and condition

When to Call a Professional

Contact Bosch support or a qualified technician if:

• E15 (leak) errors recur after draining the base pan
• E09 (heating) errors persist—heating repairs are complex
• The dishwasher won’t start or respond to controls
• You see active water leaking during operation
• Error codes return immediately after reset
• You hear grinding, loud humming, or other unusual sounds
• The dishwasher is under warranty (DIY repairs may void coverage)

What to Tell the Technician

Have ready:

• Model number (inside the door frame)
• Serial number
• E/F number code displayed
• When the error first appeared
• What troubleshooting you’ve already tried

Sources

For official Bosch support:

• Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes
• Bosch Home US Support

Related Guides

• E15 Error: Water in Base Pan
• E24 Error: Drain Pump Blocked
• E09 Error: Heating Element Failure
• Appliance Error Codes: Universal Guide
• LG Dishwasher Error Codes Explained