Modern Bosch washing machines use an electronic diagnostic system that continuously monitors components such as the door-lock mechanism, water inlet system, drainage pump, heating circuit, motor, water-level sensors, flow sensor and leakage-protection system.

When the electronic control module detects an abnormal operating condition, the washing machine may stop or modify the programme and display an E-code or F-code.

Examples include:

• E16 / F16 – door-related problem
• E17 / F17 – water supply taking too long
• E18 / F18 – drainage problem
• E19 / F19 – heating taking too long
• E20 / F20 – unexpected heating
• E23 / F23 – leakage/AquaStop protection activated
• E25 / F25 – turbidity sensor problem
• E26 / F26 – analogue pressure sensor problem
• F27 – pressure sensor fault
• E28 / F28 – flow sensor fault

Bosch's current India support pages specifically provide troubleshooting information for E/F16, E/F17, E/F18, E/F19, E/F20, E/F23, E/F25, E/F26, F27 and E/F28.

However, additional codes may appear on particular Bosch models, generations and regional variants. Therefore, an error code should always be interpreted together with the appliance's exact E-Nr (model number) and, where applicable, FD production number.

Important: Bosch error-code meanings are not necessarily universal across every washing machine ever manufactured by Bosch. A code used by one platform or generation can have a different meaning—or may not be documented for another model. Always check the instruction/service information for the exact E-Nr before replacing components.

Quick Bosch Washing Machine Error Code Reference

Error Code	General Meaning / Area to Check
E16 / F16	Door open / door not properly locked
E17 / F17	Water supply time exceeded
E18 / F18	Drainage problem / pump or drain path blocked
E19 / F19	Heating time exceeded
E20 / F20	Unexpected heating
E21 / F21	Motor/drive fault on applicable models
E22	Model-dependent; consult exact model documentation
E23 / F23	Water leakage / AquaStop or base protection activated
E25 / F25	Turbidity sensor fault
E26 / F26	Analogue pressure sensor fault
F27	Pressure sensor fault
E28 / F28	Flow sensor fault
E29	Model-dependent; often associated with water/filling systems on applicable platforms
E32	Model-dependent
E34	Door-lock related on certain Bosch platforms
E35	Model-dependent water-level/leak-related fault
E36	Model-dependent safety/electronic fault
E57	Model-dependent motor/electronics fault
E67	Model-dependent electronics/configuration fault
E80	Model-dependent electronics/program fault
E90	Model-dependent electronics/communication fault

The last group should not be treated as a universal Bosch definition. Check the model-specific manual or Bosch service information before diagnosing those codes.

E16 / F16 – Door Open or Door Not Properly Locked

Bosch officially identifies E16/F16 as a door-open condition.

The washing machine cannot safely start the programme until the control electronics receive confirmation that the door is properly closed.

Possible causes

• Door not completely closed
• Clothing trapped between the door and seal
• Excessive laundry preventing closure
• Door latch misalignment
• Damaged door hook
• Faulty door interlock
• Wiring problem between lock and control board
• Electronic control fault

What to do

1. Stop the programme.
2. Open the door.
3. Check whether clothing is trapped near the rubber seal.
4. Reduce an excessively large load.
5. Close the door firmly until the locking mechanism engages.
6. Restart the programme.

Bosch's broader washer documentation also groups E16, E34, F16 and F34 with a door-not-locked-properly condition on applicable models.

If the error continues even though the door physically closes correctly, the interlock or its electrical circuit may require professional diagnosis.

E17 / F17 – Water Supply Time Exceeded

Bosch officially defines E17/F17 as “water supply time exceeded.”

This means the washer expected to receive sufficient water within a specified period but the required level or flow was not achieved.

Common causes

• Water tap partially or completely closed
• Low household water pressure
• Kinked inlet hose
• Crushed water hose
• Blocked inlet filter
• Restricted AquaStop hose
• Faulty inlet valve
• Flow measurement problem
• Water-level detection problem

Troubleshooting

Check that the water tap is fully open.

Inspect the complete inlet hose and ensure that it is not:

• kinked
• folded
• trapped behind the appliance
• damaged

Bosch documentation also advises checking the filters in the water connection and verifying adequate supply pressure. Some Bosch guidance specifies that approximately 10 litres per minute should flow from a fully opened tap during a supply test.

If the plumbing supply is normal but E17/F17 repeatedly returns, professional diagnosis may be necessary.

E18 / F18 – Drainage Error

E18/F18 normally indicates that the washing machine cannot drain correctly.

Bosch documentation identifies blocked or kinked drainage hoses and blocked detergent-solution/drain pumps as common causes.

Possible causes

• Drain-pump filter blocked
• Coins, buttons or debris in the pump
• Drain hose kinked
• Drain hose blocked
• Waste pipe or siphon blocked
• Drain pump impeller obstructed
• Drain pump failure
• Electrical wiring problem

Troubleshooting

Switch off and unplug the washing machine before inspecting accessible drainage components.

Check:

1. Drain hose
2. Waste connection
3. Pump filter
4. Pump chamber for foreign objects

Be careful when opening the pump filter because hot water may still be inside the machine.

If the pump runs but the machine does not drain, look for an obstruction in the drain path. If the pump does not operate at all, electrical or pump diagnosis may be required.

E19 / F19 – Heating Time Exceeded

E19/F19 indicates that the machine is taking too long to reach the required water temperature. Bosch lists this as heating time exceeded.

Potential causes can involve:

• Heating element
• Temperature sensor
• Heater wiring
• Relay/control electronics
• Excessive scale around the heater
• Supply or electrical abnormalities

Because the heating system operates at mains voltage, internal electrical testing should normally be performed by a qualified appliance technician.

E20 / F20 – Unexpected Heating

Bosch describes E20/F20 as unexpected heating.

The control electronics have detected heating behaviour that does not correspond to the expected programme state.

Possible areas requiring diagnosis

• Heater circuit
• Heater relay
• Temperature sensing circuit
• Wiring
• Main control module

Bosch recommends trying a reset by switching the appliance off and back on. If the error returns, arrange professional service.

E21 / F21 – Motor or Drive Fault on Applicable Models

F21 appears on some Bosch washer generations as a motor fault. Bosch documentation for older applicable machines explicitly instructs users to contact customer service for F21.

Possible areas include:

• Motor
• Motor brushes on older brushed-motor models
• Tachometer/tacho generator
• Hall sensor
• Wiring harness
• Motor control electronics
• Main control board
• Mechanical drum restriction

Do not assume F21 has exactly the same diagnostic procedure across all Bosch washer generations.

E22 – Model-Dependent Error

E22 is not part of the primary current Bosch India washer error-code list referenced above.

Its interpretation can therefore depend heavily on the model and control platform.

If E22 appears:

1. Record the complete code.
2. Record the E-Nr.
3. Switch the appliance off.
4. Check the user manual.
5. Contact Bosch service if the code returns.

Avoid ordering a sensor or PCB solely because an internet list assigns a particular component to E22.

E23 / F23 – AquaStop / Leakage Protection Activated

E23/F23 is one of the most important Bosch washing machine errors.

Bosch states that E23/F23 means the AquaStop system has been activated and warns that there may be water leakage.

Bosch manuals also describe E23 as water in the base tub / appliance leaking.

What should you do?

Stop using the washing machine.

1. Switch off the appliance.
2. Turn off the water tap.
3. Disconnect power if this can be done safely.
4. Do not repeatedly reset the washer hoping that the error disappears.
5. Inspect externally for visible leakage.
6. Arrange professional service.

Possible leak sources can include hoses, seals, pumps, dispensers, internal connections or other water-carrying components.

Because AquaStop is a safety system, bypassing it is not recommended.

E25 / F25 – Turbidity Sensor Fault

Bosch identifies E25/F25 as a turbidity sensor issue.

The turbidity sensing system is used on applicable models to monitor characteristics of the wash water.

Potential diagnostic areas include:

• Sensor contamination
• Sensor failure
• Connector problem
• Wiring problem
• Electronic control problem

Bosch recommends contacting customer support for this fault rather than attempting component-level repair without appropriate expertise.

E26 / F26 – Analogue Pressure Sensor Fault

Bosch officially identifies E26/F26 as an analogue pressure sensor issue.

The pressure sensor helps the control system determine how much water is present in the machine.

A problem in this system can interfere with:

• Filling
• Water-level monitoring
• Draining
• Overflow protection
• Programme sequencing

Potential causes include the sensor itself, pressure path, wiring or electronics.

Bosch advises that the washing machine should not be used until this problem has been resolved.

F27 – Pressure Sensor Fault

Bosch lists F27 as a faulty pressure sensor in its washer error-code information.

Because accurate water-level information is essential for safe operation, pressure-sensor faults should be investigated rather than repeatedly cleared by resetting the appliance.

E28 / F28 – Flow Sensor Fault

Bosch officially defines E28/F28 as a flow sensor fault.

The flow sensor helps the appliance monitor incoming water.

Potential areas include:

• Flow sensor
• Sensor connector
• Wiring harness
• Water flow restrictions
• Electronic control circuit

Bosch India states that this fault is not intended to be rectified by the user and recommends arranging a service appointment.

E29 – Water/Filling Related on Some Models

E29 can appear on certain Bosch/BSH washer platforms, but its exact interpretation should be verified against the appliance's E-Nr.

Before assuming an internal component failure, check basic water-supply conditions:

• Tap fully open
• Adequate water pressure
• Inlet hose not kinked
• Inlet filter clean

If the code persists, consult the model-specific documentation.

E32 – Model-Dependent Code

E32 can have model-specific meanings and should not be diagnosed from a generic Bosch code table alone.

If displayed, record the E-Nr and exact symptoms—for example whether the washer:

• fills
• drains
• spins
• locks the door
• stops at a specific stage

These observations can significantly improve professional diagnosis.

E34 – Door Lock Related on Certain Models

On applicable Bosch washer platforms, E34 can be associated with the door not locking properly. Bosch's current US error-code reference groups E16, E34, F16 and F34 under a door-locking problem.

Check for:

• Laundry trapped in the door
• Door not fully closed
• Damaged latch
• Misaligned door
• Faulty interlock

If the error remains after ensuring proper closure, service may be required.

E35, E36, E57, E67, E80 and E90

These codes may be encountered on particular Bosch washing-machine platforms or discussed in model-specific service information, but they should not be assigned a universal meaning without verifying the exact machine.

They may involve areas such as:

• Water-level management
• Safety circuitry
• Motor electronics
• Power modules
• Main control electronics
• Configuration/programming
• Internal communication

For these errors, the correct procedure is to identify the exact appliance before attempting repairs.

How to Identify Your Bosch Washing Machine Correctly

Bosch identifies appliances using an E-Nr (model number) and an FD production number.

These numbers are extremely important when researching error codes because two machines that look almost identical externally may use different:

• Electronics
• Motors
• Sensors
• Pumps
• Door locks
• Firmware
• Diagnostic systems

Bosch India specifically recommends locating the appliance rating plate to obtain the E-Nr and FD number when arranging service or identifying the appliance.

Can You Reset a Bosch Washing Machine Error?

Some temporary errors may disappear after a power cycle.

A general non-invasive procedure is:

1. Stop the programme.
2. Switch the washing machine off.
3. Wait several seconds.
4. Switch it back on.
5. Select the required programme.
6. Restart.

Some Bosch manuals advise switching the appliance off, waiting approximately five seconds, and switching it back on for otherwise unspecified displays.

However, a reset does not repair the underlying fault.

For example, repeatedly resetting:

• E23/F23 leakage protection
• pressure sensor faults
• motor faults
• heating faults

can hide the symptom temporarily while the underlying problem remains.

Errors You Can Often Check Yourself

Some Bosch washer problems can safely be investigated without dismantling the machine.

Typical user-level checks include:

Door errors

Check the door, latch area and trapped clothing.

Water inlet errors

Check:

• Water tap
• Inlet hose
• Household water pressure
• Accessible inlet filter

Drain errors

Check:

• Drain hose
• Waste connection
• Accessible pump filter

Excessive foam

Use the correct detergent and recommended quantity.

Errors That Usually Require Professional Service

Professional diagnosis is advisable for faults involving:

• Heating circuits
• Motor electronics
• Main PCB/control module
• Pressure sensors
• Flow sensors
• Turbidity sensors
• Internal wiring
• AquaStop activation
• Internal leakage
• Repeated door-interlock failure

Do not open electrical sections unless you are trained to work safely on mains-powered appliances.

Important Safety Precautions

A washing machine combines mains electricity, water, heating elements and moving mechanical components, so incorrect troubleshooting can cause electric shock, burns, flooding or additional appliance damage.

Before user-accessible maintenance:

• Switch off the machine.
• Disconnect the mains plug where appropriate.
• Turn off the water supply when working around hoses.
• Allow hot water to cool before opening the pump/filter.
• Never bypass the door lock.
• Never bypass AquaStop or another leakage safety system.
• Do not perform live-voltage tests unless professionally qualified.

For E23/F23 or visible leakage, turn off the water supply and stop using the machine until the cause has been identified.

Bosch Washing Machine Error Code Troubleshooting Workflow

When an error appears, use this sequence:

Step 1 – Record the complete error code

Do not rely on memory. Note whether it is E, F or another display.

Step 2 – Record the E-Nr and FD number

This identifies the exact washer generation.

Step 3 – Note when the error occurs

For example:

• Immediately after Start
• During filling
• During heating
• During draining
• During spinning
• Near programme completion

Step 4 – Perform safe external checks

Check the door, water supply, hoses, filter and drain connection where relevant.

Step 5 – Try a power reset only when appropriate

Do not repeatedly reset a leakage or serious electrical fault.

Step 6 – Consult the exact Bosch manual

Model-specific documentation takes priority over generic internet code lists.

Step 7 – Arrange service when required

Sensor, motor, heater, PCB, leakage and internal electrical faults normally require professional diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What does E16 mean on a Bosch washing machine?

E16/F16 means the washing-machine door is open or has not been properly secured. Check for trapped laundry and close the door correctly.

2. What does Bosch E17/F17 mean?

It means the water supply time has been exceeded. Check the tap, inlet hose, water pressure and inlet filter.

3. What does E18 mean on a Bosch washing machine?

E18/F18 normally indicates a drainage problem. A blocked pump, pump filter, drain hose or waste connection is a common cause.

4. Can I fix Bosch E18 myself?

Basic checks such as inspecting the drain hose and cleaning the user-accessible pump filter can often be performed by the owner if the machine's manual permits it. Disconnect power first and be prepared for residual water.

5. What does E19/F19 mean?

Bosch identifies E19/F19 as a heating-time-exceeded error.

6. What is Bosch E20/F20?

It means unexpected heating has been detected. Bosch recommends switching the machine off and on; if the problem remains, service is required.

7. Is Bosch E23/F23 serious?

Yes. It indicates that the leakage-protection/AquaStop system has been activated or water has been detected in the base. Turn off the water tap and stop using the washer until the problem is resolved.

8. What does E25/F25 mean?

Bosch identifies E25/F25 as a turbidity sensor problem.

9. What does E26/F26 mean?

It indicates an analogue pressure sensor fault. This sensor is involved in detecting the amount of water in the washer.

10. What does F27 mean?

Bosch identifies F27 as a pressure sensor fault.

11. What does E28/F28 mean?

It indicates a flow sensor fault. Bosch India recommends professional service for this error.

12. What does F21 mean on an older Bosch washing machine?

On applicable older Bosch models, F21 indicates a motor fault.

13. Why does my Bosch washer show an error after filling?

The cause depends on the code. Water-level sensing, heating, flow sensing or other monitored systems may be involved. Record the exact error rather than diagnosing from the programme stage alone.

14. Why does my Bosch washer show an error while draining?

Check for E18/F18 and inspect the accessible drain path, pump filter and drain hose according to the appliance manual.

15. Can low water pressure cause a Bosch error?

Yes. Insufficient supply pressure can contribute to filling errors such as E17/F17.

16. Can a blocked filter cause an error?

Yes. A blocked inlet filter can restrict filling, while a blocked pump/filter can prevent drainage.

17. Can too much detergent cause problems?

Yes. Excessive detergent can create too much foam and interfere with normal washing and draining. Some Bosch manuals specifically report excessive foam and may automatically introduce an additional rinse cycle.

18. Should I keep resetting the washer until the error disappears?

No. A reset may clear a temporary electronic condition but cannot repair a failed sensor, pump, heater, motor, leak or control board.

19. Where can I find the model number?

Look for the appliance rating plate containing the E-Nr and FD number. The exact location depends on the washer model.

20. Are Bosch E and F codes the same?

Sometimes Bosch documentation groups equivalent displays together—for example E16/F16, E17/F17 and E18/F18. However, never assume every E-code automatically has an identical F-code on every model.

21. Are Bosch washing-machine error codes the same worldwide?

Not necessarily. Bosch sells different models and generations across Europe, the UK, India, Australia, Asia, the Middle East and the USA. Model-specific documentation should therefore be treated as authoritative.

22. Can I replace a sensor based only on the error code?

It is not recommended. The code identifies the system in which the controller detected a problem; it does not always prove that the sensor itself has failed. Wiring, connectors, hoses, mechanical conditions or the control electronics can produce similar symptoms.

23. What should I do if my error code is not listed?

Record the complete code and your E-Nr/FD number and consult the appliance manual or Bosch support. Bosch also recommends contacting support for washer codes that are not covered by its published error-code information.

24. When should I stop using the washing machine immediately?

Stop using it if there is:

• Visible water leakage
• E23/F23 leakage protection
• Burning smell
• Smoke
• Electrical arcing
• Repeated circuit-breaker tripping
• Severe abnormal mechanical noise

Disconnect power only when it is safe to do so.

Conclusion

Bosch washing-machine error codes are designed to help identify the system in which an abnormal condition has been detected.

Among the most important codes are:

E16/F16 – Door
E17/F17 – Water supply
E18/F18 – Drainage
E19/F19 – Heating time
E20/F20 – Unexpected heating
E21/F21 – Motor fault on applicable models
E23/F23 – Leakage/AquaStop
E25/F25 – Turbidity sensor
E26/F26 – Analogue pressure sensor
F27 – Pressure sensor
E28/F28 – Flow sensor

Bosch India's current washer-support section explicitly provides individual guidance for E/F16, E/F17, E/F18, E/F19, E/F20, E/F23, E/F25, E/F26, F27 and E/F28.

For codes outside the standard published list—including codes such as E22, E29, E32, E35, E36, E57, E67, E80 and E90—avoid relying on generic code lists without confirming the exact Bosch E-Nr. The meaning and repair procedure may differ by machine generation and market.

For official model-specific information, use the Bosch Home Appliances India support website or the corresponding Bosch support site for your country.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for general technical information, troubleshooting and educational purposes only. Error-code meanings and diagnostic procedures can vary by Bosch washing-machine model, production generation and market. Always check the official instruction manual and Bosch service information for your exact E-Nr and FD number before performing repairs.

Electrical, heating, motor, electronic-control and internal leakage repairs should be performed by a suitably qualified appliance technician. Neither the author nor website publisher is responsible for injury, water damage, electrical damage, appliance damage or other loss resulting from incorrect diagnosis, repair or use of this information.

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