Bosch Dishwasher Troubleshooting: Error Codes and Common Problems

Bosch dishwashers are known for their quiet operation and excellent cleaning performance—they're a popular choice in Metro Atlanta kitchens. But like all appliances, they develop problems. Understanding Bosch-specific issues and error codes helps you determine whether you're facing a quick fix or need professional service.

Understanding Bosch Dishwashers

Bosch dishwashers have several distinctive features that affect troubleshooting:

Manual-Clean Filter System

Unlike many American dishwashers, Bosch units don't have disposers (food grinders). This contributes to their quiet operation but means:

• Filters must be cleaned regularly (monthly minimum)
• Food particles recirculate if filters are clogged
• Clogged filters are the #1 cause of poor cleaning

AquaStop Leak Protection

Bosch dishwashers have a leak protection system:

• Sensors in the base pan detect water
• The water supply is automatically shut off
• Error code E24 or E25 may display
• Water in the base prevents operation

Electronic Controls

Modern Bosch dishwashers use sophisticated electronic controls:

• Self-diagnostic capabilities
• Error codes displayed on panel
• May require specific reset procedures

Common Bosch Dishwasher Problems

Problem: Dishwasher Not Cleaning Well

Poor cleaning is the most common complaint. Start with these causes:

Clogged filter (most likely):

1. Open the dishwasher and remove the bottom rack
2. Twist and lift out the cylindrical filter
3. Remove the flat filter beneath it
4. Rinse both under running water
5. Use a soft brush to remove stuck debris
6. Reinstall both filters securely

Clogged spray arms:

1. Remove the lower and upper spray arms (they twist off)
2. Rinse under running water
3. Clear blocked holes with a toothpick
4. Reinstall and verify they spin freely

Wrong detergent:

Bosch recommends specific detergent types:

• Use detergent designed for European-style dishwashers
• Bosch brand tabs or Finish work well
• Avoid excessive detergent (causes residue)
• Use rinse aid consistently

Loading issues:

• Items blocking spray arm rotation
• Dishes nested together preventing water access
• Heavily soiled items not facing the spray source

Problem: Dishwasher Won't Start

Check the basics:

• Door fully latched? Bosch won't start with an unlatched door
• Delay start accidentally set? Check the display
• Child lock activated? Usually deactivated by holding a button for 3 seconds

Reset the dishwasher:

1. Press and hold the Start button for 3-5 seconds
2. Wait for any lights to go out
3. Select a cycle and press Start again

Power issues:

• Check the circuit breaker
• Verify the power cord connection
• Test the outlet with another appliance

Problem: Dishwasher Not Draining

Bosch dishwashers should drain completely at cycle end. Standing water indicates:

Clogged drain filter:

• Same cleaning procedure as for poor cleaning
• Check for debris in the pump area beneath the filter

Drain hose issues:

• Check for kinks
• Verify the hose is elevated properly (high loop required)
• Clear any blockages

Garbage disposal connection: If your dishwasher drains through the disposal:

• Run the disposal to clear it
• Check the dishwasher drain connection on the disposal
• New disposals may have a knockout plug that needs removal

Drain pump problem:

• Listen for humming during drain cycle
• No sound may indicate pump failure
• Humming without drainage suggests blockage or impeller damage

Problem: Dishwasher Leaking

Water from the door:

• Door gasket damaged or dirty
• Items preventing door closure
• Excessive suds (wrong detergent)
• Spray arm hitting items and redirecting water

Water from underneath:

Check for AquaStop activation:

1. Turn off power and water supply
2. Pull the dishwasher out carefully
3. Tip it back gently to drain any water from the base pan
4. Check for visible leaks when running
5. The leak sensor may have triggered from condensation or minor drips

Hose connections:

• Water inlet connection
• Drain hose connection
• Internal hose connections (requires disassembly)

Problem: Dishwasher Making Noise

Normal Bosch sounds:

• Soft humming (motor operation)
• Water spray sounds
• Occasional clicking (detergent dispenser, drain valve)
• Brief grinding during drain cycle

Abnormal sounds:

Grinding during wash:

• Check for broken glass or debris
• Something may be in the pump area
• Spray arm may be hitting items

Loud buzzing:

• Water inlet issue (check supply valve)
• Motor problem

Rattling:

• Loose items in the silverware basket
• Spray arms hitting dishes
• Items not secured in racks

Problem: Dishes Not Drying

Bosch dishwashers use condensation drying (not heated dry):

How Bosch drying works:

• Final rinse uses very hot water
• Stainless steel tub absorbs heat
• Heat from dishes causes moisture to condense on cool tub walls
• Water drains away

Improving drying:

1. Use rinse aid (essential for Bosch)
2. Run the hottest cycle with heavy loads
3. Crack the door after the cycle ends
4. Plastic items don't dry as well as dishes and glasses
5. Unload bottom rack first (prevents dripping from top rack items)

If drying is significantly worse than usual:

• Water may not be hot enough (check water heater setting)
• Rinse aid dispenser may be empty or malfunctioning
• Heating element may have failed (provides final rinse heating)

Bosch Error Codes

E15 — Water in Base Pan (AquaStop)

What it means: The leak sensor detected water in the dishwasher base.

Solutions:

1. Turn off power and water supply
2. Pull the dishwasher out
3. Tilt it back 45 degrees to drain base pan water
4. Let it dry for 24 hours
5. Check for visible leak sources
6. Reinstall and test

If E15 returns: There's an active leak that needs repair.

E24 — Drain Problem

What it means: The dishwasher can't drain properly.

Solutions:

1. Clean the filters and pump area
2. Check drain hose for kinks or blockages
3. Run garbage disposal if connected
4. Check for high loop in drain hose
5. Reset and test

E25 — Drain Pump Issue

What it means: Drain pump is blocked or failing.

Solutions:

1. Clean filters and pump area thoroughly
2. Check for debris blocking the pump impeller
3. Listen for pump operation during drain
4. May need pump replacement if no blockage found

E09 — Heating Problem

What it means: Water isn't heating properly.

Possible causes:

• Heating element failure
• Temperature sensor issue
• Control board problem

This typically requires professional diagnosis.

E01, E02, E03 — Control Issues

What they mean: Electronic control problems.

Try:

1. Power cycle the dishwasher (off for 5 minutes)
2. Reset by holding Start for 3 seconds

If error persists: Control board diagnosis needed.

Bosch Dishwasher Maintenance

Weekly

• Wipe door edges and gasket
• Check for debris in the bottom of the tub

Monthly

• Remove and clean the filters
• Wipe the door seal
• Check spray arm rotation

Quarterly

• Remove and clean spray arms
• Run a cleaning cycle with dishwasher cleaner
• Check and clean the drain area

Annually

• Inspect inlet screen for debris
• Check door seal for wear
• Verify water temperature is adequate

When to Call a Professional

Contact an appliance repair technician if:

• Error codes persist after troubleshooting
• E09 heating error — requires component testing
• E15 keeps returning — active leak needs repair
• Pump makes noise but doesn't pump — likely pump failure
• Control panel not responding — may need control board
• Burning smell — immediate attention needed
• Under warranty — don't void coverage with DIY repairs

Bosch Dishwasher Repair in Metro Atlanta

If your Bosch dishwasher has problems beyond basic troubleshooting, Appliance Dean provides expert diagnosis and repair throughout Metro Atlanta. We're familiar with Bosch's unique design and can properly diagnose issues with the AquaStop system, electronic controls, and specialized components.

Call (404) 671-9117 or schedule service online for prompt Bosch dishwasher repair.