Understanding Bosch Dishwasher Errors

Bosch dishwashers are renowned for their reliability and efficiency. When they do encounter problems, the error code system helps diagnose issues quickly. This guide covers all Bosch dishwasher error codes and practical solutions.

Note: These error codes apply to most Bosch dishwasher models including Serie 2, Serie 4, Serie 6, and Serie 8. Siemens and Neff dishwashers share the same error codes.

Complete Bosch Dishwasher Error Code List

Code Meaning Cause DIY Fix Possible?
E01 Heating Error Heating element or control module fault No - Needs technician
E02 Heating Timeout Water not heating in expected time No - Needs inspection
E09 Heating System Flow-through heater malfunction No - Heater replacement
E14 Flow Sensor Water flow sensor not detecting water Sometimes - Check inlet
E15 Aquastop Activated Water detected in base - flood protection Yes - See below
E16 Unwanted Water Water entering when it shouldn't Check inlet valve
E17 Water Inlet Error Too much water pressure Check water pressure
E18 Water Fill Error Not filling with water Yes - Check supply
E19 Heat Exchanger Heat exchanger valve issue No - Needs technician
E21 Drain Pump Pump running but not draining Sometimes - Check filter
E22 Filter Blocked Dirty filters blocking water flow Yes - Clean filters
E23 Drain Pump Error Drain pump not running No - Pump issue
E24 Drain Blocked Drain hose kinked or blocked Yes - Check hose
E25 Drain Pump Blocked Pump impeller blocked Yes - Clear pump
E27 Low Voltage Voltage drop detected (load shedding related) Wait for power

E15 Error - The Most Common Bosch Problem

The E15 error is by far the most common Bosch dishwasher error in South Africa. It means water has collected in the base and triggered the Aquastop flood protection system.

How to Fix Bosch E15 Error

The "Tilt Method" - Works 80% of the time:

  1. Switch off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power
  2. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher
  3. Remove the dishwasher from under the counter (disconnect drain hose first)
  4. Place towels on the floor in front of the machine
  5. Carefully tilt the dishwasher forward at a 45-degree angle
  6. Water will drain out from the base onto the towels
  7. Keep tilted for 2-3 minutes until no more water comes out
  8. Tilt slightly to the left and right to get remaining water
  9. Leave to dry for a few hours (or use a hairdryer on the base)
  10. Reinstall and test
Important: If E15 keeps coming back, there's likely a leak somewhere - spray arm seal, door seal, sump gasket, or internal hose. You'll need a technician to find and fix the source.

E24 and E25 - Drainage Problems

These are the second most common Bosch dishwasher errors. They indicate water isn't draining properly.

Fixing E24/E25 Step by Step

  1. Check the drain hose:
    • Pull out the dishwasher and check the drain hose behind
    • Look for kinks, sharp bends, or crushing
    • The hose should rise up before going down to the drain
  2. Clean the filters:
    • Remove the bottom spray arm (twist and lift)
    • Remove the cylindrical micro-filter (turn anticlockwise)
    • Lift out the flat metal mesh filter
    • Wash all parts under running water
    • Check for glass, bones, or debris
  3. Check the pump cover:
    • With filters removed, you'll see a pump cover with arrows
    • Turn anticlockwise and lift out
    • Remove any debris (glass, toothpicks, bones common)
    • Check the impeller spins freely
  4. Check air gap / garbage disposal:
    • If connected to a garbage disposal, ensure knockout plug is removed
    • Clean any air gap device if fitted

E22 - Filter Cleaning Required

This error specifically indicates the filters are blocked. Regular filter cleaning prevents this:

  • Clean filters at least once a month
  • Rinse dishes before loading (large food particles)
  • Run a hot wash with dishwasher cleaner monthly
  • Check spray arms aren't blocked

E18 - Water Not Filling

Check These First:

  • Water supply tap: Is it fully open? Turn it off and on again.
  • Inlet hose: Check for kinks or crushing.
  • Inlet hose filter: Unscrew the hose from the tap, check the mesh filter for debris. Clean if blocked.
  • Aquastop hose: If you have an Aquastop hose, check the indicator window. Red means it's tripped and needs replacement.
  • Load shedding: Water may be off in some areas during load shedding. Check other taps.

Heating Errors (E01, E02, E09)

Bosch dishwashers heat water internally. Heating errors require professional diagnosis as they can involve:

  • Heating element failure
  • NTC temperature sensor fault
  • Control module problem
  • Wiring issues

Heating element replacement typically costs R850-R1,500 including labour.

How to Reset a Bosch Dishwasher

After fixing an issue, reset your dishwasher:

  1. Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds
  2. Wait for the display to clear
  3. If that doesn't work, turn off at the power point
  4. Wait 5 minutes
  5. Turn back on and select a new program

Bosch Dishwasher Repair Costs

Repair Typical Cost (incl. labour)
E15 tilt and dry (if no ongoing leak)R450 - R650
E15 with leak repairR650 - R1,200
Drain pump replacementR750 - R1,200
Inlet valve replacementR550 - R850
Heating element replacementR850 - R1,500
Door seal replacementR650 - R1,100
Control board repairR1,200 - R2,500
Spray arm replacementR350 - R550

Preventing Bosch Dishwasher Problems

  • Clean filters monthly
  • Run a cleaning cycle with dishwasher cleaner every month
  • Use quality dishwasher tablets (cheap ones leave residue)
  • Use rinse aid to prevent mineral buildup
  • Don't overload - water needs to reach all dishes
  • Check spray arms spin freely
  • Leave door ajar after cycles to prevent mould