Washing Machine Error Codes & Fault Finder
Find Bosch washing machine error codes, understand what common fault messages mean, and discover the checks you can make before looking for replacement parts.
Washing Machine Error Codes Explained
Washing machine error codes are displayed when the appliance detects a condition that needs attention. Depending on the Bosch model, the message may appear as an E or F code, a number, a combination of characters, or alongside a warning symbol. These messages can help identify the area of the machine that requires investigation, but the exact meaning can vary between models.
Common washing machine error codes can relate to the door lock, water supply, drainage system, heating circuit, pressure sensing, motor or an unbalanced load. Some faults may have a simple cause, such as a blocked filter, kinked hose or incorrectly closed door. Other faults may require testing of electrical components or professional repair.
Before ordering a spare part, always check the complete model number of your washing machine. The same appliance family can contain several models with different components and different error-code meanings. Our washing machine error codes guide is intended to help you understand the displayed message and decide what to check next.
Find Washing Machine Error Codes
Enter your Bosch error code below, or select one of the common codes to jump directly to the relevant fault guide.
Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes
Below you’ll find common Bosch washing machine error codes and practical information about what they can indicate. Because Bosch uses different electronics and components across its washing machine range, always confirm the code against the exact model before replacing a component.
E16 / F16 — Door Not Locked Correctly
These washing machine error codes can indicate that the door has not been closed or locked correctly. A large load, an item caught in the door seal, or a problem with the locking mechanism can prevent the programme from starting.
What to check
- Make sure the washing machine door is fully closed.
- Check that clothing is not trapped around the door seal.
- Reduce the load if the drum is excessively full.
- Restart the programme after securely closing the door.
E17 / F17 — Water Supply Problem
This code can indicate that the washing machine has not received the required water within the expected time. Bosch also lists F29 alongside this fault family on some models.
What to check
- Make sure the water supply tap is fully open.
- Check that the inlet hose is not kinked or crushed.
- Check the inlet hose filter for blockage.
- Check the household water supply and pressure.
E19 / F19 — Heating Problem
E19 or F19 can indicate that the washing machine has taken too long to heat the water to the required temperature.
Possible causes
- Heating element fault.
- Temperature sensor problem.
- Electrical connection fault.
- Control system problem.
Heating faults involve electrical components. If the code returns after a restart, further testing may be required by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
E20 / F20 — Unexpected Heating
Bosch identifies E20 / F20 as a fault associated with unexpected heating in the washing machine. A simple restart may clear a temporary fault, but a recurring code should be investigated.
What to do
- Switch the appliance off.
- Allow it to remain off briefly.
- Switch the washing machine back on.
- If the code returns, arrange further investigation.
E23 / F23 — Leak Protection Activated
This code can indicate that the washing machine’s leak protection system has detected water where it should not be. Bosch associates this code with activation of the AquaStop system on applicable models.
What to do
- Stop using the appliance.
- Turn off the water supply.
- Disconnect the appliance from the electrical supply if safe to do so.
- Check for obvious external leaks.
- Arrange professional inspection if water has entered the base.
E25 / F25 — Turbidity Sensor
E25 / F25 can indicate a problem involving the turbidity sensor. This sensor is used by compatible washing machines to monitor the condition of the wash water.
Possible causes
- Sensor contamination.
- Sensor failure.
- Electrical connection problem.
- Control-system fault.
E26 / F26 — Analogue Pressure Sensor
E26 / F26 can indicate a problem with the analogue pressure sensing system. The washing machine uses pressure information to help determine the water level during operation.
Possible causes
- Pressure sensor fault.
- Blocked or damaged pressure hose.
- Electrical connection problem.
- Control-board fault.
F27 — Pressure Sensor Fault
F27 can indicate a faulty pressure sensor. Because water-level information is important to the wash programme, the appliance may stop or prevent a programme from operating normally.
What to check
- Check the appliance model against the code.
- Inspect the pressure sensing system for visible issues.
- Check relevant hoses and connections where appropriate.
Electrical testing should be carried out by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
E28 / F28 — Flow Sensor
E28 / F28 can indicate a problem involving the washing machine’s flow-sensing system. The appliance may not be receiving or interpreting water-flow information correctly.
Possible causes
- Flow sensor fault.
- Water supply problem.
- Blocked inlet components.
- Electrical connection problem.
E32 / F32 — Unbalanced Load
An imbalance can occur when laundry becomes unevenly distributed inside the drum. The washing machine may reduce or stop the spin cycle to protect the appliance.
What to check
- Pause the programme if necessary.
- Redistribute the laundry around the drum.
- Mix larger and smaller items where appropriate.
- Avoid washing a single heavy item on its own.
If the problem repeatedly occurs with normal loads, the machine may require further investigation.
E33 / F33 — Excessive Detergent Foam
E33 / F33 can be associated with excessive detergent foam. Too much detergent, or detergent that is unsuitable for the programme, can create excessive suds.
What to do
- Use the detergent quantity recommended for the load.
- Check the detergent manufacturer’s dosage instructions.
- Reduce detergent when washing lightly soiled laundry.
- Run an appropriate rinse cycle if excessive foam remains.
E56 — Communication Error
E56 can indicate an unexpected communication problem within the washing machine’s electronic control system.
What to do
- Switch the appliance off.
- Allow the machine to remain off briefly.
- Switch it back on and check whether the code returns.
- If the error repeatedly returns, arrange professional diagnosis.
Other Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes
Bosch washing machines can display additional codes and warning conditions depending on the model and control system. Current Bosch support information also includes faults associated with drainage, water pressure, detergent levels, unbalanced laundry and other operating conditions.
If your code is not listed above, don’t assume that the nearest-looking code has the same meaning. Search using the exact code together with your full washing machine model number.
Before Ordering a Washing Machine Spare Part
An error code identifies an area that may need attention, but it does not necessarily prove that a particular component has failed. Always check the appliance model number before ordering a replacement part.
- Record the complete washing machine model number.
- Check the exact error code displayed.
- Check hoses, filters and other accessible items where appropriate.
- Compare the replacement part against the appliance specification.
- Use the model number when searching for compatible spare parts.
Important Safety Information
Washing machines contain mains electrical components and can also contain hot water and pressurised water connections.
Disconnect the appliance from the electrical supply before carrying out appropriate maintenance. If the appliance is leaking, overheating, producing unusual electrical smells, tripping the electrical supply or showing a fault involving internal electrical components, stop using it and arrange assessment by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
Need a Washing Machine Spare Part?
Once you’ve identified the fault and confirmed the appliance model number, you can search for washing machine spare parts through Appliance Spares R Us. Always use the full model information to help identify the correct component.
Washing Machine Spare Parts Find Your Model Number