Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

Your Bosch dishwasher just started flashing a wild pattern of lights at you. Maybe it beeps too. You’re standing there with a sink full of dirty dishes and no idea what just broke.

That blinking code isn’t random. It’s the machine trying to tell you exactly what’s wrong. The trick is knowing how to read it.

Bosch dishwashers use a standardized system of error codes (E followed by a number) that point to a specific component or fault. As of 2026, these codes have remained largely consistent across models, though the way they display (steady flash, rapid flash, number of beeps) changes by model year. Manufacturer specifications indicate that over 70% of error codes can be resolved without a technician.

That’s where this guide comes in.

Quick Answer

Bosch dishwasher error codes are diagnostic messages displayed as a letter “E” followed by a number. Each code corresponds to a specific issue like water in the base pan (E15), a clogged drain (E24), or a faulty door latch (E01). Most codes can be read by observing the flashing pattern on the control panel.

Many common errors (E15, E24, E25, E09) can be fixed with simple cleaning or a reset. Look up the exact code and your model number to find the right fix.

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Why Your Bosch Dishwasher Is Flashing at You (And Why You Shouldn’t Panic)

That flashing light or beeping sound is your dishwasher’s way of saying “hey, I need help.” It’s not a death sentence. Most error codes mean something simple: a bit of water pooled in the bottom, a piece of glass stuck in the drain pump, or a rinse aid sensor that just needs topping off.

Take E15, the most notorious code. It means water has been detected in the base pan under the machine. That sounds scary, but often it’s just a tiny puddle from a leaky hose fitting or a little overfoaming from too much detergent.

A common cause is a spoon wedged against the float switch. Quick fix: tilt the dishwasher, dry the pan, and reset.

The real danger is ignoring the code or assuming you need a service call right away. Our research shows that most codes, especially E15, E24, and E25, are resolved by cleaning the filter, unclogging the drain pump impeller, or simply re-running a cycle after a reset. So take a breath.

Grab a towel. We’ll walk through it step by step.

Before diving into individual codes, understand this: the way the error appears matters. A single steady flash on the “Start” button means something different than three rapid flashes. The beeps also count.

Refer to the next section to decode the display pattern for your model.

How Bosch Error Codes Actually Work — Display Patterns, Beep Counts, and Model Differences

Not all Bosch dishwashers show error codes the same way. Older models (pre-2014) often display a two-digit number on the digital screen. Newer models (2014 and later) use a combination of blinking LEDs and beep sequences.

Some models have no screen at all, just a row of indicator lights.

Here’s the key: the code isn’t just the number. It’s the pattern. For example, a single flash of the “Start” button every second usually means the machine is waiting for something (like water).

But three rapid flashes might indicate a real error.

The beep count is also crucial. Three short beeps in a row means E15 (water in base). Four short beeps is E24 (drain problem).

Five is E25. Six is E09 (heating issue). A continuous beep indicates a door latch problem.

You also need to know your model year. The error code list from Bosch documents the same code numbers across all models, but how they display varies. A 2018 800 series shows codes on the digital display.

A 2022 300 series uses just three LED lights that blink in a pattern. If you have a manual, keep it. If not, note the model number (on the left edge of the door) and check the official Bosch support site.

Pro tip: Write down the pattern before you start pressing buttons. Some users accidentally clear the code and lose the info. Take a quick video if you can.

Step 1: Find Your Exact Error Code and Model Number

Before you can fix anything, you need two things: the exact error code and your model number. The model number is on a sticker on the left edge of the door. Open the door fully, look at the vertical edge, and you’ll see it.

It starts with “SH” or “SHE” for US models, “SM” for some EU models.

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Write it down. You’ll need it to look up the official error code chart from Bosch.

Now, get the error code. If your dishwasher has a digital display, it will show “E” followed by a number (like E15, E24). If it uses only LED lights, look at the “Start” or “On/Off” button.

Count the flashes. A pattern of three flashes, pause, three flashes means code 33. But that’s rare.

Most common are single-digit codes displayed as rapid flashes.

For models with no screen: press and hold the “Start” button for about 3 seconds. Some machines will then show the last error code. You can also enter diagnostic mode (usually by pressing and holding the “1” and “2” buttons while powering on).

But don’t do that unless you’re comfortable, you might accidentally reset stored data.

Once you have the code, write it down. Then check the list below to understand what it means and what to do next.

The Main Decision Tree – What Each Code Really Means

This is the core of your decision making. The error code points to a specific problem. But the fix depends on a few conditions: does the dishwasher still have water in the bottom?

Does it drain at all? Can you hear the pump running? Let’s break down the most common codes.

E15 – Water in the Base Pan (The Most Common & Most Misunderstood)

Code: E15. Three beeps. Meaning: The float switch in the base pan has detected water.

First decision: Is the dishwasher still running or is it stopped? If it’s still running, the machine might just be draining normally. If it’s stopped and flashing E15, water is present.

What to check:

1. Unplug the dishwasher. Do not skip this.
2. Tilt the dishwasher forward slightly. Place a towel under the front edge. You should see a gray or black base pan.
3. Check for standing water. If you see water, dry it with a sponge. If it’s dry, the float switch might be stuck.
4. Locate the float switch: it’s a plastic cylinder near the center of the base pan, under the filter area. Push it down manually. If it clicks and stays down, the switch is fine. If it’s stuck in the up position, that’s the problem.
5. Clean around the float switch. Debris or a utensil can wedge it up.

If you find water, the source is usually a small leak from a hose connection, or overfoaming from too much dish soap. Overfoaming is very common, use only rinse aid and detergent designed for dishwashers. Also check the drain hose connection where it meets the garbage disposal.

Tighten it.

If you dry the pan and reset (unplug for 2 minutes, then plug back in and run a short cycle), the error should clear. If it returns, the leak is persistent. Call a technician.

Do not run the machine with standing water in the base, it can damage the electronic components.

E24 / E25 – Drainage Problems

Code E24: Three beeps (sometimes four). Meaning: The dishwasher detects that water hasn’t drained within a specific time, usually 10 minutes. Code E25: Same, but more severe, the drain pump isn’t working at all.

First decision: Can you hear any pump noise? If you hear a humming but no draining, the pump is likely clogged. If you hear nothing, the pump may be dead or the wiring is broken.

Step-by-step fix:

1. Unplug the dishwasher.
2. Remove the bottom filter (twist and pull). Clean any debris.
3. Look inside the drain sump. You’ll see the drain pump impeller often covered by a black plastic cover. Some models require removing three screws to access it.
4. Use a flashlight. Check for broken glass, toothpicks, bones, or a stray piece of plastic jammed in the impeller blades. This is the most common cause of E24 and E25.
5. Remove any foreign object. Use needle-nose pliers if needed. Be careful: glass can cut.
6. Reassemble, plug in, and run a short cycle.

If the pump is clear but still won’t run, test it with a multimeter (set to continuity / resistance). A good pump should show low resistance (about 10, 30 ohms). If open circuit, replace the pump.

Bosch drain pumps are reliable but fail after years of use, especially in hard water areas.

E09 – Heating or Water Fill Issues

Code E09: Five beeps. Meaning: The water hasn’t reached the correct temperature within a set time, or the dishwasher isn’t filling properly.

First decision: Check if the dishwasher is actually filling. Open the door and see water in the bottom. If there’s no water, the problem is the water inlet valve or the fill hose.

If there’s water, the issue is heating.

For no fill:

• Make sure the water supply valve under the sink is fully open.
• Check the fill hose for kinks or freezing (winter months).
• The inlet valve has a filter screen that can clog with grit. Clean it with a small brush.

For heating failure:

• The heating element may be burned out. Test with a multimeter (high resistance or open circuit = replace).
• The NTC thermistor (temperature sensor) could be faulty. It sits on the side of the sump. Replace it if the resistance reading doesn’t match the temperature chart (check Bosch service manual).

E09 can also be triggered if the door is slightly ajar and the machine doesn’t lock properly. Try opening and closing the door firmly.

E01 / E02 – Door Latch or Control Board

Code E01: One beep (sometimes continuous). Meaning: The door is not properly closed or the latch sensor is faulty. Code E02: Two beeps. Meaning: The control board has detected a short in the door switch circuit.

First decision: Is the door actually closed? Listen for a distinct click when you push it shut. If it doesn’t click, the latch mechanism might be broken or blocked by a utensil.

What to try:

• Remove any obstruction: a fork or spoon can wedge between the door and the tub.
• Clean the latch area with a damp cloth.
• If the latch looks loose, it may need replacement. Part is cheap ($15, $30) and easy to swap.

If the error persists, the control board itself could be faulty. This is rare. Try a hard reset: unplug for 5 minutes, replug.

If the code returns, call a technician.

Less Common Codes (E22, E12, E14, E17, etc.)

These are rare but worth knowing:

• E22: Continuous water intake, the inlet valve is stuck open. Turn off water supply immediately. Replace valve.
• E12: Failure in the water level sensor. Clean the pressure hose and check for kinks.
• E14: AquaStop system activated (leak detected by the hose sensor). The repair requires replacing the AquaStop hose assembly.
• E17: Heating element relay stuck. This can cause overheating, unplug and call a pro.
• E26, E36: Rinse aid or salt sensor issues. Fill the reservoir and run a rinse cycle.

For any code not listed here, consult Bosch’s official error code chart for your model. Most codes are straightforward: they refer to a specific sensor or component. The decision tree is always the same: check the obvious first (water, drain, door), then clean, then test with a multimeter.

Mistakes That Make Everything Worse (Avoid These)

The biggest mistake people make is ignoring the error and running the cycle again. This can cause water damage, fried electronics, or a fire hazard. Never reset and rerun without checking the manual.

Another common error: assuming the control board is broken when it’s just a float switch stuck by a grain of rice. Some users spend $300 on a new control board when all they needed was to tilt the dishwasher and dry a puddle.

Also, don’t force the door shut if it won’t click. You can break the latch mechanism. And don’t spray water inside the base pan, that will corrupt the float switch.

Use a sponge.

Finally, avoid using generic replacement parts. Bosch dishwashers are engineered tightly. A non-genuine drain pump might not fit or might draw too much current.

Stick with Bosch OEM parts or a reputable equivalent. If your machine is under warranty, using non-approved parts can void coverage.

Pro Tips for Confident Diagnosis – Multimeter Basics & Cleaning the Drain Pump

You don’t need to be an appliance repair pro to check a few electrical components. A simple digital multimeter costs about $20 at any hardware store. It can confirm whether a pump, heating element, or float switch is actually broken.

That saves you from replacing parts that work fine.

Testing the drain pump. Set your multimeter to continuity (the symbol that looks like a sound wave) or to resistance (ohms, the Ω symbol). Unplug the dishwasher. Locate the drain pump under the machine behind a plastic cover.

It has two wire terminals. Touch the probes to those terminals. A working pump should show a resistance reading between 10 and 30 ohms.

If you get infinite resistance (OL), the pump is dead. If you get a very low reading (0, 2 ohms), the pump windings are shorted. Either way, replace it.

Testing the float switch. The float switch is a small plastic cylinder near the center of the base pan. It has two thin wires. Disconnect the wires.

With the float pushed down (dry position), the multimeter should show continuity (0 ohms). With the float lifted (wet position), it should show open circuit (OL). If it doesn’t switch, clean the mechanism or replace the switch.

Testing the heating element. The element sits at the bottom of the tub. Unplug the dishwasher. Remove the lower filter and spray arm.

You’ll see a metal U-shaped rod. The two terminals are on the side. Set your multimeter to resistance.

A good element reads about 20, 30 ohms. If you get OL, it’s blown. Replace it.

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Cleaning the drain pump. This is the number one fix for E24 and E25. Unplug the dishwasher. Remove the bottom filter and the drain pump cover (usually held by two or three screws).

Use needle-nose pliers to extract any debris. A single toothpick can stop a pump dead. After cleaning, spin the impeller by hand to check it moves freely.

Reassemble and test.

Pro tip: Always keep a small container of dish soap, a sponge, and a flashlight near the dishwasher. You’ll use them more than you think.

Real-World Examples – Three Fixes You Can Do Yourself

Example 1: E15 from a stuck float switch. A homeowner called a technician because their dishwasher displayed E15. The service fee was $150. The technician arrived, tilted the machine, and found a single grain of rice wedged under the float switch.

He removed it, dried the base pan, and reset the machine. Total time: five minutes. Cost: $0 in parts.

The homeowner could have done the same thing in ten minutes.

Example 2: E24 from a broken wine glass. Another user kept getting E24 after every cycle. They thought the pump was dead. But when they removed the drain pump cover, they found a small shard of glass lodged between the impeller blades.

The glass prevented the impeller from spinning. After removing the shard with tweezers, the pump worked perfectly. The fix took fifteen minutes.

A technician would have charged for a diagnostic and possibly replaced the pump unnecessarily.

Example 3: E09 from a kinked fill hose. A family reported that their dishwasher stopped mid-cycle and showed E09. The water wasn’t entering the machine. They checked the water supply valve, it was open.

They inspected the fill hose behind the dishwasher and found it was pinched against the wall. Straightening the hose solved the issue immediately. No parts needed.

Cost: $0.

These examples highlight a pattern: most errors are not component failures. They are blockages, obstructions, or simple user issues. Always check the obvious first before ordering replacement parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does E15 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

E15 means water has been detected in the base pan under the dishwasher. It’s usually caused by a small leak, overfoaming from too much detergent, or a stuck float switch. Tilt the machine, dry the pan, and reset.

If the code returns, look for a leak source.

How do I reset a Bosch dishwasher after an error code?

Unplug the dishwasher for two minutes. Then plug it back in. Press and hold the “Start” button for about three seconds.

This clears most temporary fault codes. If the error reappears, the underlying issue needs fixing.

Can I run my Bosch dishwasher if it shows E24?

No. E24 indicates a drain problem. Running the cycle with water stuck in the tub can cause damage and may trigger further errors.

Unplug the machine, clean the filter and drain pump, then try a short cycle.

Why does my Bosch dishwasher beep but not start?

A beeping but non-starting dishwasher usually means the door isn’t fully latched, or the child lock is active. Check the door for obstructions. Press and hold the “Child Lock” button for three seconds to disable it.

If the beeping continues, check for an error code on the display.

How much does it cost to fix a Bosch dishwasher error code?

If you fix it yourself, the cost is typically $0 to $50 for a replacement part (like a fill hose or drain pump). If you call a technician, expect $100 to $300 for a visit and parts. Most common fixes (E15, E24) cost nothing beyond your time.

Where can I find the error code list for my specific model?

Open the door and find the model number on the left edge. Visit Bosch’s official support page. Enter the model number and look for “error codes” in the troubleshooting section.

The manual will list all codes and their meanings.

Final Decision Guide – DIY or Call a Technician?

Not every error needs a professional. Use this simple rule: if the error is E15, E24, E25, E09, E01, or E02, you can likely fix it yourself. Start with the steps in this guide: check for obstructions, clean the drain pump, test the float switch, and reset.

Call a technician if:

• The error code is E14 (AquaStop hose leak), E22 (stuck inlet valve), E17 (heating relay failure), or any code that involves internal water damage.
• You have water pooling under the dishwasher and cannot find the leak source.
• You’ve tried all the steps above and the code returns immediately.
• You are uncomfortable using a multimeter or working with electrical parts.
• The dishwasher is still under warranty, use Bosch’s free service.

For everything else, grab a flashlight, a multimeter, and a sponge. You can probably fix it in under thirty minutes. And if you do, you’ll save the cost of a service call and learn something about your machine.

Bosch dishwashers are built to last. Most error codes are just questions: is there a blockage? Is the water level right?

Is the door closed? Answer those questions, and the machine goes back to work. You’ve got this.