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Fault code guide

Bosch washing machine and dishwasher error codes

Bosch codes start with E or F followed by a number. E18 and F18 mean the same thing; the letter just depends on the model. These are the ones you’re most likely to see, and what to do about each.

Checked against Bosch’s own guidance, October 2026

Before you check anything: switch the appliance off at the wall first. Never remove covers or panels from a machine that’s plugged in. If you smell burning, see scorching or the appliance trips your electrics, leave it switched off and get it looked at. Siemens and Neff appliances are made by the same group (BSH) and often use the same codes.

Bosch washing machines

Washing machines: code by code

E and F versions of the same number mean the same fault.

How to clean a washing machine pump filter

  1. E18F18 The machine can’t pump the water away.

    Try this first
    • Switch off and unplug, then open the service flap at the bottom front.
    • Drain the water slowly into a container (there can be a lot) and clean the pump housing so the impeller turns freely.
    • Check the drain hose isn’t kinked, and clean the hose and where it connects to the sink waste.

    If the pump area and hose are clear and E18 returns, the drain pump usually needs replacing.

  2. E17F17 The machine took too long to fill with water.

    Try this first
    • Make sure the water tap is fully open.
    • Check the inlet hose isn’t kinked or trapped behind the machine.

    If water supply is fine, the inlet valve, inlet filter or AquaStop hose needs checking.

  3. E16F16 The door is open.

    Try this first
    • Close the door firmly and check nothing is caught in the seal.

    If the code stays with the door shut, the door lock or catch needs checking.

  4. E23F23 The AquaStop flood protection has detected water in the base of the machine.

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off at the wall and turn off the water tap.
    • Don’t keep restarting it: water inside the base means there’s a leak somewhere inside.

    Bosch advises this can’t be fixed by the user. The leak needs tracing and repairing.

  5. Tap symbol A water inlet problem: the machine isn’t getting water.

    Try this first
    • Open the tap fully and check the inlet hose.

    Treat it like E17 if it doesn’t clear.

  6. Key symbol The child lock is on.

    Not a fault
    • On most models, press and hold Start for 3 to 5 seconds until it beeps.
    • On some models, hold the rpm and ‘Finished in’ buttons together for about 3 seconds, or hold the key button marked ‘3 sec’ on touch-screen models.

    This isn’t a fault.

Code still showing? Washing machine repairs across West London, £40 call-out including diagnosis.
Bosch dishwashers

Dishwashers: code by code

Dishwasher codes are different from washing machine codes, even on the same brand.

How to clean a dishwasher filter

  1. E15 Water has been detected in the base of the dishwasher (a leak).

    Engineer if it returns
    • Switch off and look for signs of water around the base and under the machine.
    • Check the hoses for visible kinks or damage.

    If there’s no obvious cause, the leak is inside the machine and needs tracing.

  2. E24 A drainage problem: water isn’t draining away.

    Try this first
    • Clean the filters in the base of the dishwasher.
    • Check the drain hose isn’t kinked.
    • Check the sink waste or spigot the hose connects to isn’t blocked.

    If all of that is clear, the drain pump or non-return valve needs checking.

  3. E25 The drain pump is blocked, or its cover is loose or missing.

    Try this first
    • Switch off and unplug, remove the filters and scoop out any standing water.
    • Lever off the drain pump cover under the filter (a spoon works), clear any debris and standing water, then refit it until it clicks. Take care: debris such as broken glass can be sharp.

    If the pump is clear and the code returns, the pump needs replacing.

Code still showing? Dishwasher repairs across West London, £40 call-out including diagnosis.
Sources

Where this information comes from

Every code on this page has been checked against Bosch’s own support guidance. Codes can differ between models and years, so your manual has the final word. LDN Appliance Care is independent and not affiliated with Bosch.

Not sure?

Send us the code

Message us a photo of the display and the model number (usually on a label inside the door or around the door rim) and we’ll tell you what it points to and whether it’s likely to be worth repairing.

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