Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes Explained – Fix E18, E17, E21 & More

Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes Explained – Fix E18, E17, E21 & More

Posted by KGA SUPPLIES on 23rd Mar 2026

Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes – Full Guide

If your Bosch washing machine is showing an error code, this guide explains exactly what it means — and how to fix it.

Many Bosch faults are simple issues like blockages or water supply problems, meaning you can often fix them yourself without paying for an engineer.

? Common Bosch Error Codes (Most Searched)

❌ E18 / F18 – Not Draining

Meaning: Water is not draining from the machine.

Causes:

  • Blocked pump filter
  • Kinked or blocked hose
  • Faulty drain pump

Fix:

  • Clean pump filter
  • Check hose for obstructions

? One of the most common Bosch faults — often an easy fix.

❌ E17 / F17 – Water Fill Issue

Meaning: The machine is not filling with water.

Causes:

  • Water tap closed
  • Low pressure
  • Blocked inlet valve

Fix:

  • Open tap fully
  • Clean inlet filter

❌ E21 / F21 – Motor Error

Meaning: The drum cannot rotate properly.

Causes:

  • Blocked drum
  • Worn carbon brushes
  • Faulty motor

Fix:

  • Check drum spins freely
  • Replace motor brushes if worn

❌ E23 / F23 – Leak Detected

Meaning: Water detected in the base of the machine.

Causes:

  • Internal leak
  • Loose hose
  • Seal failure

⚠️ Important: Turn off appliance and inspect immediately.

? Full Bosch Error Code List (A–Z)

? Door & Lock Errors

❌ E16 / F16 – Door Not Closed

Door not shut properly or faulty door lock.

❌ E42 / E43 – Door Unlocking Issue

Door mechanism jammed or control fault.

❌ E44 – Door Open During Cycle

Safety system triggered.

❌ E47 / E48 – Door Lock Electronics Failure

Fault in lock circuit.

? Water Supply & Flow Errors

❌ E17 / F17 – Water Fill Issue

Tap closed, low pressure, or blocked inlet.

❌ E28 – Flow Sensor Error

Incorrect water flow detection.

❌ E29 – Low Water Pressure

Restricted inlet or closed tap.

❌ NO – Water Not Entering

Similar to E17 (basic models).

? Drainage & Pump Errors

❌ E18 / F18 – Not Draining

Blocked filter or faulty pump.

❌ E24 – Pump Failure

Damaged or obstructed pump.

❌ E25 – Pump Blocked

Debris stuck in impeller.

? Heating & Temperature Errors

❌ E19 / F19 – Heating Too Slow

Faulty element or temperature sensor.

❌ E20 / F20 – Unexpected Heating

Control board issue.

❌ E30 – Heating Sensor Issue

Defective NTC sensor.

❌ E60–E69 – Heating Circuit Fault

Multiple heating-related issues depending on model.

⚙️ Sensors & Internal Faults

❌ E26 – Pressure Sensor Fault

Incorrect water level detection.

❌ E27 – Door Sensor Fault

Latch or sensor issue.

❌ E38 – Blocked Pressure Chamber

Requires cleaning.

? Leak & Safety Errors

❌ E22 – AquaStop Activated

Water detected in base.

❌ E23 / F23 – Leak Sensor Triggered

Machine leaking or flooded.

❌ E36 – AquaStop Failure

Fault with hose or leak system.

❌ E37 – Overfilling Detected

Faulty valve or pressure switch.

⚡ Motor & Mechanical Errors

❌ E21 / F21 – Motor Error

Blocked drum or worn brushes.

❌ E50 / F50 – Motor Fault

Tachogenerator or motor driver issue.

❌ F43 – Drum Not Turning

Motor jammed or worn components.

? Electronics & Software Errors

❌ E45 – Communication Error

Control module fault.

❌ E90–E92 – Software Fault

PCB communication issue.

? Other Indicators

? CL / CHILD – Child Lock Active

Hold start button for 5 seconds to deactivate.

? END Flashing

Programme finished or possible drain issue.

? When Should You Replace a Part?

If:

  • The same error keeps returning
  • The machine stops mid-cycle
  • Resetting doesn’t fix the issue

…it’s likely a component needs replacing.

Common Bosch spare parts:

  • Drain pumps
  • Heating elements
  • Door locks
  • Sensors

? Replacing parts is often far cheaper than replacing the appliance.

?️ Need Bosch Spare Parts Fast?

At KGA Supplies, we supply genuine and compatible Bosch washing machine spares.

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✅ Trusted supplier

Browse Bosch washing machine parts today.

? Pro Tip

Always:

  • Turn off power before inspecting
  • Check filters and hoses first
  • Confirm the exact error code

A simple fix could save you £100+.