A flashing Bosch washer error code looks alarming, but each one points to a single, nameable problem, and most trace back to something you can check yourself in a few minutes.
Whether you run a VarioPerfect, a Classixx, or a newer front loader, the letter-and-number code is the machine telling you exactly where it got stuck, from a blocked pump to a door that will not latch.
This guide decodes the common Bosch fault codes, gives the fix for each, and shows you what to check before you pay for a callout.
Key Takeaways
- Read the code first: A Bosch fault code is a letter and two digits (E18, F18, and d02 all mean the same drainage fault), so it names the failure before you open a single panel.
- Most faults are DIY: Cleaning the drain-pump filter, straightening the inlet hose, or reseating the door clears the majority of E18, E17, and E16 errors.
- Descaling prevents heating faults: F02 and F19 heating errors often start as limescale on the element, which regular descaling avoids.
- Know when to stop: Motor-drive (F42 to F44), control-board (F63), and mains-voltage (F13, F14) faults are electrical and need a qualified technician.
How to Read Bosch Washer Error Codes
On a Bosch machine with a digital display, the fault shows as a letter and two digits, such as E18 or F16. The letter is just Bosch’s generation label: newer machines tend to show E codes and older ones the matching F code, and many faults appear under both (E18 and F18 are the same drainage problem). The number is what matters, and it maps to one specific fault, from an open door to a failed heating element.
Older Bosch washers without a screen flash a pattern of LED lights instead. Count the blinks and note which indicator lights are lit, then match the pattern to the code table in your model’s manual.
Common Bosch Washer Error Codes
Use this list to identify why your washer stopped working and how to fix it.
E3
What It Means: Door lock error.
How to Fix It: The door didn’t latch properly, or the lock mechanism is broken. Check for clothes trapped between the seal and the glass. If the path is clear, clean the lock sensor with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. If the error persists, you may need to replace the door latch assembly.
F01
What It Means: Water intake issue; the machine isn’t filling.
How To Fix It: Verify the water taps are fully open. Check the intake hoses for kinks or heavy bends. Unscrew the hose from the machine and check the small mesh filter inside the valve; if it is clogged with sediment, the water cannot flow.
F02
What It Means: Heater timeout.
How To Fix It: The water isn’t reaching the target temperature. This usually points to a faulty heating element or loose wiring connections leading to the heater.
F03
What It Means: Drainage timeout.
How To Fix It: The water isn’t draining fast enough. Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages. Open the bottom service flap on the front of the machine and clean the drain pump filter, as coins or lint often get stuck there.
F04
What It Means: Motor fault (No tacho signal).
How To Fix It: The motor isn’t communicating with the control board. Check the motor connector plug and wiring for corrosion or loose connections.
F05
What It Means: Uncontrolled motor startup or high resistance.
How To Fix It: This often indicates worn-out carbon brushes in the motor. Inspect the brushes and replace them if they are short. Also check the motor wiring harness for damage.
F06
What It Means: NTC (temperature sensor) short circuit.
How To Fix It: The machine cannot read the water temperature. Inspect the NTC sensor and its wiring to ensure a tight connection.
F07
What It Means: Faulty NTC circuit (open circuit).
How To Fix It: Similar to F06, this implies a break in the connection. Check wires leading to the sensor and the main board. If wires look good, the sensor itself likely needs replacing.
F08
What It Means: Door open error.
How To Fix It: The program tried to start, but the door registered as open. Close the door firmly. If it clicks but still throws the code, the door sensor or lock mechanism is likely defective.
F09
What It Means: Unexpected heating.
How To Fix It: The water is heating up when it shouldn’t, typically during a rinse cycle. This is usually caused by a faulty thermostat or a stuck relay on the control board.
F10
What It Means: Communication error.
How To Fix It: The internal components aren’t talking to each other. Check the wiring harness between the motor and the control module for breaks or corrosion.
F11
What It Means: Overheating motor control or heat sink.
How To Fix It: The main control board (PCB) or heat sink is too hot. This can warp internal layers. You usually need a professional to replace the module.
F12
What It Means: Internal motor short circuit.
How To Fix It: The motor is failing. Check the carbon brushes first. If they are fine, the motor windings or the electrical connections are likely damaged.
F13
What It Means: Mains voltage too high.
How To Fix It: The power coming from your wall outlet is exceeding the safe limit for the machine. Call an electrician to inspect your home’s voltage.
F14
What It Means: Mains voltage too low.
How To Fix It: Low voltage causes the motor to stall or overheat. Verify you aren’t using an extension cord, which can drop voltage. If plugged directly into the wall, call an electrician.
F15
What It Means: Faulty temperature sensor on the motor PCB.
How To Fix It: The motor module is reading temperature incorrectly. Check connections; if the error persists, the motor PCB may need replacement.
F16 or E16
What It Means: Door is open (System Lock).
How To Fix It: Ensure the laundry isn’t pushing against the door glass. If the door is physically closed but this code remains, the locking assembly is faulty.
F17 or E17
What It Means: Water supply time exceeded.
How To Fix It: At the start of a cycle the washer times how quickly the drum fills and throws this code if it doesn’t reach the right level fast enough. Open the supply tap fully and check the inlet hose mesh filter for sediment. If you unscrew an AquaStop hose to clean it, do not immerse the valve housing in water, as it holds a live electrical component.
F18 or E18
What It Means: Pump blocked or drain hose clogged.
How To Fix It: This is the most common Bosch error, and F18, E18, and the d02 display all point to the same drainage fault. It means water cannot leave the drum. Open the pump filter door (usually bottom right), drain the water manually via the small tube, and unscrew the filter. Remove any debris blocking the impeller.
F19 or E19
What It Means: Heating time exceeded.
How To Fix It: The water is taking too long to heat. This often indicates a calcified heating element or low voltage. A technician typically needs to test the heating system.
F20 or E20
What It Means: Unexpected heating fault.
How To Fix It: The machine is heating when it shouldn’t. This suggests a temperature sensor issue or a malfunction in the main control board.
F21
What It Means: Drum rotation fault (motor circuit).
How To Fix It: The drum won’t turn steadily, so the washer tries to recover and then stops with this code. On the Classixx and Exxcel ranges it usually points to worn motor carbon brushes or a failing tacho (speed) sensor. Inspect and replace the brushes first; if they are fine, the motor wiring or control module is the next suspect.
E23 or F23
What It Means: AquaStop activated (Leak detected).
How To Fix It: Water has reached the base plate of the machine, tripping the AquaStop safety float and cutting the supply. Find the source of the leak, tilt the machine gently to drain the base, then leave it to dry for a few hours before resetting. A recurring E23 usually means a failed hose, pump seal, or sump gasket.
E27
What It Means: Pressure sensor malfunction.
How To Fix It: The machine can’t determine water levels accurately. The pressure switch (water level sensor) likely needs replacement.
E28 or F28
What It Means: Flow sensor issue.
How To Fix It: The component that measures water intake is silent. Inspect the wiring to the flow meter. If connections are secure, replace the flow meter.
E29
What It Means: Water inlet error.
How To Fix It: Similar to E17, the machine detects no water entering. Check if the water supply is cut off or if the AquaStop hose is defective.
F42, F43, F44
What It Means: Motor drive errors.
How To Fix It: These codes indicate high speed, no rotation, or reverse rotation issues. Check for an overloaded drum or clothes stuck between the drum and seal. Inspect the motor’s carbon brushes for wear.
E56
What It Means: Communication error.
How To Fix It: Turn the washer off, unplug it for 5 minutes, and plug it back in. If the code returns, the control module requires professional service.
F63
What It Means: Control board protection fault.
How To Fix It: The main board’s self-protection has tripped, usually from a software glitch, a poor cable connection, or a failing processor. Power the machine off and unplug it for a few minutes first. If F63 returns, the control module needs a technician; it is not a user-serviceable fix.
CL / Child Lock
What It Means: Child Lock is active.
How To Fix It: This is not a malfunction, and the method depends on your model. Hold the Start button for 3 to 5 seconds, or hold the rpm and Finished In buttons together for about 3 seconds, until you hear a beep and the CL symbol clears. On touchscreen models, hold the illuminated key-symbol button for 3 seconds.
How to Prevent Bosch Error Codes
Many Bosch faults are avoidable with a little upkeep. The heating errors (F02 and F19) usually begin as limescale on the heating element, which insulates it and forces longer, hotter cycles until the element gives out.
Bosch recommends descaling every three to six months, and every two months in hard-water areas, using a tested washing-machine descaler (per Bosch’s guidance). Avoid vinegar and citric acid, which Bosch warns can degrade the rubber seals and hoses over time.
For the drainage codes (E18, F18), clean the drain-pump filter every couple of months and check pockets for coins and tissues before a wash. Running an occasional hot maintenance or clean-drum cycle keeps the pump and hose clear.
FAQs
How to Clear Error Codes on a Bosch Washing Machine
Sometimes a code sticks even after you fix the fault. Start with the simplest reset: switch the machine off, unplug it for two to five minutes, and plug it back in, which clears most temporary control-board glitches. If the code stays, many dial-based Bosch models accept this master-reset sequence:
- Turn the dial to the Off (12 o’clock) position.
- Turn the dial to the 6 o’clock position (usually the Rinse or Spin cycle).
- Press and hold the Spin button. While holding it, turn the dial one click to the 7 o’clock position.
- Keep holding the Spin button for another 5 seconds, then release.
- Turn the dial back to Off.
If the same code returns straight away, the reset has not cured the underlying fault, and the part behind that code still needs attention.
