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Bosch Washers Error Codes

Bosch washers are designed with advanced technology and efficiency in mind, but occasional malfunctions can trigger error codes on the display. These codes help identify the root of the issue—ranging from drainage problems to door latch malfunctions—so you can take appropriate action to restore performance.

Understanding what each Bosch washer error code means can save you time and help you determine whether the issue can be resolved at home or needs professional attention. In some cases, using genuine Bosch washer parts may be necessary to complete a repair.

Below is a detailed list of common Bosch washing machine error codes, their possible causes, and diagnostic insights.

CL – Child Lock Activated

Issue:
This code indicates that the Child Lock feature is currently enabled. When active, it locks the control panel to prevent accidental changes or interruptions during a wash cycle.

Possible Causes:

  • The Child Lock function was manually activated to prevent unintended operation

  • A button combination was accidentally pressed, triggering the lock

  • Control panel response delay leading to unintentional activation

Solutions:
Check your washer’s user manual for instructions on how to deactivate the Child Lock. This typically involves pressing and holding a specific button or button combination (such as “Prewash” or “Spin”) for 3–5 seconds. Once deactivated, the control panel will function normally.

 


 

E:00 <-> -18 – Pump Blocked

Issue:
This error code indicates that the washer’s drain pump is obstructed, preventing it from draining water properly. If unresolved, water may remain inside the drum after the wash cycle completes.

Possible Causes:

  • A blocked or kinked drain hose

  • Foreign objects such as lint, small garments, or coins lodged in the pump filter

  • A clogged drain pipe or pump chamber

  • Lack of regular pump maintenance

Solutions:
Start by inspecting and cleaning the drain hose and drain pipe for any visible blockages or bends. Access the pump filter (refer to your owner’s manual) and remove any debris that may be obstructing water flow. Rinse the filter under warm water and reinsert it securely. After cleaning, restart the washer and monitor if the error recurs.

If the issue persists after these steps, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for professional assistance or to schedule a service visit.

 


 

E:00 <-> -23 – Water Detected in Base or Leak Present

Issue:
The washer has detected water in the base of the appliance, which may indicate a leak or internal overflow. To prevent damage, the washer may stop operating until the issue is resolved.

Possible Causes:

  • A leaking hose or loose connection inside the appliance

  • Cracked or damaged tub or pump components

  • Excessive suds or overfilling causing water to spill internally

  • Clogged drainage system leading to overflow

  • A triggered anti-flood system due to moisture accumulation in the base

Solutions:

  • Turn off the water supply immediately to prevent further leakage.

  • Unplug the washer or switch off the circuit breaker to safely power it down.

  • Inspect visible hoses and connections behind the unit for signs of damage or leaks.

  • Avoid using excess detergent, and only use HE-approved options to reduce suds buildup.

  • If you suspect internal damage or the issue persists, avoid further use until inspected by a technician.

For professional service and to avoid further water damage, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904.

 


 

E16 – Door Not Locked Properly

Issue:
The washer has detected that the door is not securely locked, which prevents the cycle from starting or continuing. This is a safety feature to avoid water leakage or drum movement with an open door.

Possible Causes:

  • The door was not closed with enough force to engage the lock

  • An overloaded drum may be preventing the door from sealing shut

  • Clothing or foreign objects caught between the door and frame

  • Faulty door latch or sensor issue

Solutions:

  • Open and firmly close the washer door until it clicks audibly.

  • Remove some laundry if the drum is too full and try closing the door again.

  • Check for any fabric, buttons, or objects caught in the door area.

  • Restart the program once the door is securely closed.

If the issue continues or the door won't lock properly even when empty, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for assistance.

 


 

E17 – Water Supply Error

Issue:
The washer is not receiving sufficient water due to a blockage in the inlet filters or low water pressure. This can interrupt or prevent a wash cycle from starting properly.

Possible Causes:

  • Filters in the water inlet hose or AquaStop hose are clogged with debris

  • Water pressure from the tap is too low for proper operation

  • The water tap is not fully opened

  • Kinked or improperly connected inlet hose

Solutions:

  • Clean the water inlet filters:

    1. Turn off the water tap.

    2. Detach the hose from the tap.

    3. Use a small brush to clean the filter at the end of the hose.

    4. If your washer does not have an AquaStop, remove the hose from the back of the appliance. Use pliers to extract and clean the filter inside.

    5. Reattach the hose securely and check for leaks.

  • Ensure the water tap is fully open and delivering sufficient pressure. You should see approximately 2.5 gallons (10 liters) per minute from a fully open tap.

  • If the water flow is weak, contact a licensed plumber to assess your home’s water pressure.

If the error persists after these steps, call Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for assistance.

 


 

E18 – Drainage Error

Issue:
The washing machine is unable to drain water properly, which can prevent the cycle from completing and leave water in the drum.

Possible Causes:

  • The drain hose is blocked, kinked, or improperly installed

  • The siphon or spigot is clogged with debris

  • The drain pump is obstructed or clogged

  • Residual water buildup inside the hose or pump

Solutions:

  • Check and clean the drainage hose:

    1. Turn the program selector to OFF and unplug the washer from the power outlet.

    2. Be cautious—residual water may be very hot, so allow time for it to cool before proceeding.

    3. Check the hose installation to ensure there are no kinks or bends.

    4. Loosen the hose clip at the siphon, carefully detach the drain hose, and empty remaining water into a bucket.

    5. Clean the drainage hose and siphon spigot thoroughly.

    6. Hold the hose over a bucket and run the DRAIN program to ensure water is flowing freely.

    7. Reconnect the hose to the siphon and check for any leaks.

  • Clean the drain pump:

    1. Turn the program selector to OFF and unplug the machine.

    2. Open the service flap at the bottom front of the washer.

    3. Carefully drain any water using the emergency drain hose.

    4. Slowly unscrew and remove the pump cover—watch out for hot water.

    5. Clear any debris from the pump housing and ensure the impeller wheel spins freely.

    6. Reattach the pump cover firmly.

    7. To check for leaks, pour about 1 quart (1 liter) of water into the detergent drawer and observe the pump area.

    8. Run the DRAIN program to confirm successful operation.

If the error persists after these steps, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for further assistance.

 


 

E32 – Laundry Imbalance Detected

Issue:
The washer has detected an imbalance during the spin cycle. To protect the appliance, the spin cycle may not run or may run at a reduced speed.

Possible Causes:

  • Uneven distribution of laundry inside the drum

  • Large and small items washed together without proper mixing

  • Heavy items like pillows or duvet covers with unclosed zippers or buttons

Solutions:

  • The washer will attempt to redistribute the laundry by performing several additional spin attempts, which may extend the program time.

  • To minimize imbalance in future loads:

    • Wash large and small items together to help balance the load.

    • Make sure zippers and buttons on pillows, duvet covers, or similar items are fully closed to avoid bunching.

    • Evenly distribute laundry inside the drum before starting the wash cycle.

If the imbalance error persists and the washer does not spin properly despite redistributing the laundry, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for assistance.

 


 

E33 – Detergent Foam Detected

Issue:
Excessive detergent foam has been detected in the washer. This is usually caused by using too much detergent or using detergent that is too old. Excess foam may overflow from the detergent compartment.

Possible Causes:

  • Using too much detergent for the load size or soil level

  • Using detergent that is past its expiration date or not suitable for high-efficiency washers

  • Washing lightly soiled items with regular detergent amounts

Solutions:

  • Reduce the amount of detergent used, especially when washing lightly soiled laundry.

  • Always follow the detergent manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage, which is often printed on the detergent packaging.

  • Use detergents specifically designed for your washer type (e.g., HE detergents for high-efficiency machines).

  • If excessive foam occurs frequently, consider rinsing the detergent compartment and running a rinse cycle to clear any residue.

If excessive foaming continues despite adjusting detergent use, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for further assistance.

 


 

E34 – Door Not Locked Properly

Issue:
The washer door is not securely locked, preventing the machine from starting or continuing the cycle.

Possible Causes:

  • Door not fully closed or latched

  • Objects or laundry items jammed between the door and the washer housing

  • Overloading the washer, causing the door to not close properly

Solutions:

  • Close the door firmly until you hear an audible click indicating it is locked.

  • Check around the door seal and housing for any items stuck or obstructing the door from closing fully.

  • Avoid overloading the washer; redistribute laundry evenly to allow the door to close properly.

  • Restart the washing program once the door is securely locked.

If the problem persists after ensuring the door is properly closed, contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for assistance.

 


 

E80 – Fault in Drive Circuit

Issue:
There is a malfunction in the washer’s drive circuit affecting the motor or related components.

Possible Causes:

  • Electrical faults within the drive circuit

  • Damaged motor components or wiring

  • Control board issues

Solutions:

  • This fault requires diagnosis and repair by an authorized Bosch technician.

  • Contact Bosch Customer Support at 1-800-944-2904 for assistance or to schedule a service visit.

 


 

F16 – Door Not Locked Properly

Issue:
The washer detects that the door is not securely locked.

Possible Causes:

  • Door not fully closed or latched

  • Overloaded drum preventing the door from closing properly

  • Obstruction (such as clothing or foreign objects) caught between the door and housing

Solutions:

  • Close the door firmly until you hear an audible click.

  • Check for any items jammed between the door and the washer housing.

  • Reduce the load if it is too full and then close the door again.

  • Restart the wash program.