Appliance Fault Codes

What that error code means — and what you can safely check

Bosch (BSH group, with Siemens and Neff) washing machines show E-number codes. E17 and E18 are the two most commonly reported by owners; others appear on specific model lines.

Bosch washing machine error codes
CodeMeaningSeverityFirst action
E18Drain faultOften fixable at homeThe machine could not drain the water out within the expected time.
E17Water inlet faultOften fixable at homeThe machine did not fill with water within the expected time — the inlet flow is too slow or stopped.
E16Door lock faultOften fixable at homeThe control unit cannot confirm the door is closed and locked, so the programme will not start.
E02Motor faultOften fixable at homeThe motor is not responding as expected.
E13Water leak detectedOften fixable at homeWater has been detected in the base tray of the machine, which triggers the anti-flood switch.

Safety first

Unplug before any check. Never open panels beyond the filter flap. Anything involving internal wiring, the heater or gas must go to a professional — see each code page for its "call a professional when" line.

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