Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes Explained
Bosch washing machines (Series 2, 4, 6, and 8) display error codes when the machine detects a fault. Bosch uses both E-codes and F-codes across different models and generations. Most water-related errors (filling and draining) can be fixed at home; mechanical and electronic faults require a Bosch technician.
Bosch Error Code Reference Table
| Code | Meaning | DIY Fix? |
|---|---|---|
| E17 / F17 | Water not filling within time limit | Yes |
| E18 / F18 | Water not draining — drainage fault | Yes |
| E23 / F23 | Water leakage detected (Aquastop) | Sometimes |
| E27 / F27 | Voltage issue / power supply problem | No |
| E43 / F43 | Heating circuit / temperature sensor fault | No |
| E57 / F57 | Motor overcurrent fault | No |
| E60 / F60 | NTC temperature sensor fault | No |
| E21 | Drain pump runs but water not draining | Yes |
| d (door light flashing) | Door not locked or latch fault | Yes |
Step-by-Step Fixes
E17 / F17 — Water Not Filling
- Check the water supply tap is fully open.
- Inspect the inlet hose for kinks.
- Disconnect the inlet hose from the machine (turn off the tap first) and clean the mesh filter inside the hose connector — this is a very common cause of E17 on Bosch machines.
- Bosch machines are sensitive to low water pressure — ensure pressure is at least 0.05 MPa.
- Reconnect and retry. Persistent E17 indicates a faulty inlet valve.
E18 / F18 — Water Not Draining
This is the most common Bosch washing machine error in India.
- Access the drain pump filter — on Bosch front-loaders, this is behind a small cover at the bottom right front of the machine.
- Place a flat tray (Bosch machines have very little clearance) and slowly unscrew the filter cap.
- Remove lint, threads, hair, coins, and any debris from the filter and pump housing.
- Check the drain hose — it should not be kinked, and the drain outlet should be 60–100 cm above the floor.
- Reinstall the filter, close the cover, and run a Spin cycle to test.
E23 / F23 — Water Leakage (Aquastop Triggered)
- Turn off the machine and water supply immediately.
- Check the inlet hose connections at both ends for loose fittings or damaged hoses.
- Check under the machine for signs of water pooling.
- If there is no visible external leak, the Aquastop sensor inside the machine base has detected internal leakage — this requires a Bosch technician to inspect the internal hoses and tub.
Door Flashing — Door Not Locking
- Open and firmly close the door — listen for the click.
- Check the door seal isn’t folded or trapped in the door frame.
- Unplug for 5 minutes and retry.
- If the door closes but won’t lock, the door latch or interlock module needs replacement.
Bosch Service Contact
Call BSH Home Appliances (Bosch India service) at 1800 266 1880 (toll-free). Bosch has authorised service centres in all major Indian cities and provides genuine parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bosch E18 always mean the pump filter is clogged?
E18 is most commonly caused by a clogged pump filter, but can also be caused by a kinked drain hose, blocked drain pipe, or (less commonly) a faulty drain pump. Clean the filter first — this resolves E18 in around 80% of cases.
My Bosch Series 6 is showing E23 but there’s no visible water — why?
E23 is triggered by a moisture sensor in the machine’s base tray, not just visible leaks. Even a small internal drip from a hose clamp or tub seal can accumulate in the base tray and trigger E23. A technician will need to inspect internal plumbing.
How do I clear an error code on a Bosch washing machine?
Unplug the machine from the mains for 10 minutes, plug back in, and restart. This clears the error from memory. If the same code reappears within minutes, the underlying problem hasn’t been resolved.