Bosch Washing Machines Troubleshooting

The CL error code indicates that either the child lock feature or control lock has been activated on your Bosch washing machine, preventing normal operation. This is a safety feature, not a mechanical fault. To resolve it, press and hold the START button for 3-10 seconds until you hear a beep and the lock symbol disappears.

The washing machine has detected that the door is not securely closed or there is a fault with the door lock mechanism. This is most commonly caused by a misaligned door, a faulty door latch, or a defective electronic lock. Check that the door is fully closed and aligned properly; if the problem persists, the door lock assembly likely needs replacement.

The E17 error indicates a drainage fault, meaning water is not draining from the machine properly or is taking too long to empty. Common causes include a clogged drain filter, blocked drain hose, faulty drain pump, or a failed water level sensor. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter and inspecting the drain hose for blockages.

The washing machine has detected a blockage preventing water from draining properly. This is most commonly caused by debris, hair, or lint blocking the drain filter, pump, or a kinked/blocked drain hose. Start by checking the drain hose for kinks, then inspect and clean the drain filter and pump area.

The washing machine is taking too long to heat water during a cycle, indicating a heating system malfunction. Common causes include a faulty heating element, thermostat failure, or inlet valve problem preventing proper water flow. Check that hot water is available at the inlet and the water inlet hose is not kinked or blocked before calling for service.

Error E20 indicates either a drainage problem, unexpected heating, or a short circuit in the circulation pump, depending on your specific Bosch model. The most common causes are a clogged drain filter, blocked drain hose, or pump connector issues. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter and hose; if the error persists, the pump or heating element may need professional replacement.

E21 indicates a fault with the motor or main control board, preventing the drum from spinning properly. Common causes include worn motor carbon brushes, a foreign object stuck in the drum, or control board malfunction. Start by checking the drum for debris and attempting to clear any stored error codes; if the problem persists, the motor brushes or control board likely need professional replacement.

Error E22 indicates the washing machine is unable to drain water properly, typically caused by a clogged drain filter, blocked drain line, or pump malfunction. Start by cleaning the internal drain filter and checking for trapped debris or solids in the drain system. If water remains in the tub after these steps, the drain pump may need professional inspection.

The washing machine has detected a drainage issue or water leak, typically triggered by the AquaStop leak sensor or a blocked drain pump/hose. The most common causes are a clogged drain filter, kinked drain hose, or excessive suds from detergent. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter, inspecting the drain hose for kinks or blockages, and ensuring proper drainage before calling for service.

The E25 error indicates the drain pump is blocked or not functioning properly, preventing water from draining from the washing machine. Common causes include debris, lint, or foreign objects blocking the pump impeller, a clogged drain hose, or a loose/missing drain pump cover. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter, inspecting the drain hose for blockages, and ensuring the drain pump cover is secure.

The analogue pressure sensor that monitors water levels in the washing machine has failed. This sensor is responsible for detecting proper water fill and drainage, so a fault prevents the machine from operating correctly. Unfortunately, this requires replacement of the sensor component and typically needs professional service.

The door lock mechanism is faulty or not engaging properly, preventing the washing machine door from locking securely during operation. The most common cause is a defective door lock assembly. Try unplugging the machine for 5 minutes and restarting; if the error persists, the door lock will need to be replaced.

The flow sensor detects water level and drainage in the washing machine. When faulty, it prevents proper water management and typically locks the door. While some sources suggest checking for blockages or cleaning the drain filter as a first step, this fault usually requires professional replacement of the sensor itself.

E29 indicates either a water inlet supply issue or a drainage problem on Bosch washing machines. Common causes include a turned-off supply tap, clogged inlet filter, blocked drain pump, or drainage blockage. Start by checking that the water supply tap is fully open and the inlet hose filter is clean; if the problem persists, the drain pump or filter may need cleaning or replacement.

The E30 error indicates either a water supply problem (blocked inlet hoses, closed water tap) or a drainage system blockage (clogged drain hose or pump obstruction). Check that the water tap is fully open, hoses are not kinked, and clean the drain hose and pump filter. If the issue persists after these checks, the pump may require professional maintenance.

E32 indicates either an unbalanced load detected during the spin cycle or a drainage issue preventing water from emptying properly. The most common cause is clothes bunched to one side of the drum, though blocked drain pipes or kinked hoses can also trigger this error. Start by stopping the cycle, redistributing the load evenly, and restarting; if the error persists, check that the drain hose isn't kinked or blocked.

The washing machine is not draining water properly, indicated by E36 or E36-10 error codes. The most common causes are blockages in the drain filter or sump hose (65% of cases), followed by pump failure (25%) or control board issues (10%). Start by unplugging the machine, removing and cleaning the drain pump filter, and checking the drain hose for debris or kinks.

The washing machine has detected an overfilling condition or an open circuit in the temperature sensor. This is typically caused by a faulty pressure switch, a stuck inlet valve, or a defective temperature sensor. Check water pressure levels and inspect inlet valves for debris or blockages as a first step.

The pressure chamber in your washing machine has become blocked or clogged, preventing proper water pressure sensing and regulation. This is most commonly caused by mineral buildup, debris, or sediment in the pressure chamber. The fix involves manually cleaning the pressure chamber to restore normal operation.

The door lock is not being recognized or has failed to unlock properly, preventing the wash cycle from starting or completing. This is usually caused by a jammed lock mechanism, a faulty door lock assembly, or a control board fault. First, ensure the door is fully closed and check for any obstructions; if the problem persists, the door lock mechanism or control board will likely need replacement by a technician.

The washing machine's door interlock sensor is not functioning properly, preventing the control board from recognizing the door's state. This can occur due to a faulty door interlock sensor, safety override activation from the door being opened mid-cycle, or communication failure between the door sensor and control module. The door lock mechanism or sensor may need to be replaced by a technician.

This error indicates a communication failure between the washing machine's control modules or a malfunction in the control board/display module itself. The most common cause is a faulty display module or control board electronics. This typically requires professional diagnosis and repair since it involves internal control circuitry.

The heat sink on the motor control module (PCB) is broken or faulty, preventing proper cooling of the motor control electronics. This is a hardware failure that typically results from wear, overheating, or manufacturing defect. This requires replacement of the motor control module and is not a user-serviceable repair.

The E50 error indicates a problem with the washing machine's motor or tachogenerator (motor speed sensor), preventing the drum from spinning correctly. This is typically caused by a faulty motor control board, motor driver error, or wiring issues. This fault usually requires professional diagnosis and repair as it involves electrical components or the motor itself.

The E60 error indicates a problem with the washing machine's heating system, typically caused by a faulty heating element, defective NTC temperature sensor, or wiring/connection issues between the control board and heating components. Check that water inlet hoses are properly connected and have adequate pressure; if the problem persists, the heating element or temperature sensor likely needs professional replacement.

The E61 error indicates the washing machine cannot drain water within the expected timeframe, typically caused by a clogged drain pump, blocked drain hose, or loose pump cover. Check and clean the drain filter and hose for blockages as a first troubleshooting step before calling a technician.

E62 indicates a communication error between the washer's control board and motor, or a faulty electronic control board. This can also relate to the intelligent dosing system pump being blocked. Start by performing a full power cycle: unplug the unit for 5 minutes, then check that the dosing pump is not blocked before considering control board replacement.

The E63 error indicates a problem with the heating element, thermostat, or heat sensor in the washing machine. This fault prevents proper water heating during wash cycles. Try resetting power to the machine for 10 minutes to allow the heat sensor to reset; if the error persists, the heating element or control board may need professional replacement.

The E64 error indicates a problem with the heating element or temperature sensor circuit in your washing machine. This could be due to a malfunctioning heating element, a faulty temperature sensor, or wiring/connection issues between these components. Initial troubleshooting should involve checking the power supply and inspecting wiring connections, but the heating element or sensor will likely need professional replacement.

The E65 error indicates a problem with the washing machine's heating circuit, meaning the water isn't reaching the required temperature. The most common cause is a faulty heater element. Start by checking that the water inlet hose is not kinked and that hot water is reaching the machine; if the issue persists, the heater element likely needs professional replacement.

The washing machine is unable to reach the required water temperature, typically due to a faulty heater element, defective heater relay, or incorrectly positioned NTC temperature sensor. This prevents the machine from heating water to the set temperature needed for the wash cycle. Check that the heater element and wiring connections are intact, and verify the NTC sensor is properly positioned.

The washing machine's control module has failed to encode correctly, usually due to firmware corruption or module overheating. This locks the machine and prevents the door from opening. Try unplugging the machine for 30 minutes to reset it; if that fails, the module will need to be reprogrammed or replaced by a technician.

This error indicates that the washing machine is not receiving adequate water pressure from your home's supply. Low water pressure prevents the machine from filling properly and can interrupt the wash cycle. Check that both hot and cold water taps are fully open, and contact your plumber if the issue persists across multiple appliances.

The E69 error indicates a problem with the washing machine's heating circuit, most commonly caused by a faulty heating element, defective NTC temperature sensor, or wiring/connection issues. The machine may wash with cold water or stop mid-cycle. Start by checking all electrical connections to the heating element and sensor; if connections are secure, the heating element or sensor will likely need replacement by a technician.

Error E91 indicates a communication failure between the control board and motor, or a motor overload condition. This is typically caused by electrical connection issues or control board malfunction. The first troubleshooting step is to reset the appliance by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.

E92 indicates a PCB (printed circuit board) or software error in the washing machine's control system. This can stem from loose ribbon cables, communication errors between components, or internal board failures. Power cycling the machine by switching off the breaker for 30 seconds may resolve temporary software glitches, but persistent errors typically require professional diagnosis and repair.

The END error indicates the washing machine has either completed its cycle or encountered a drainage problem that prevents it from finishing. Common causes include a blocked or kinked waste water hose, door lock issue, or the machine simply needing a reset. Start by checking that the drain hose is clear and properly positioned, then try powering off the machine for 5-10 minutes and restarting it.

The washing machine has detected that the door is not securely closed or locked, preventing the cycle from starting. This is most commonly caused by a faulty door latch, interlock mechanism, or misaligned door. First, try closing the door firmly and checking that nothing is obstructing it; if the error persists, the door latch or interlock switch likely needs professional replacement.

The washing machine is not receiving enough water to operate properly, or the water fill cycle has taken too long. The most common causes are a closed water tap, kinked inlet hose, clogged water inlet valve, or blocked filters. Start by checking that the water supply tap is fully open, the inlet hoses are not kinked or frozen, and clean any accessible filters.

The washing machine cannot drain water properly, typically caused by a clogged drain pump, blocked drain filter, kinked drain hose, or debris caught in the drain pipe. Start by checking if the drain hose is bent or kinked, then inspect and clean the drain filter to remove lint, coins, buttons, and other small objects that may be blocking water flow.

The F21 error typically indicates either a motor malfunction (worn brushes in older machines) or a drainage issue caused by a clogged filter. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter, as this is the most common cause and easiest to fix. If the filter is clear, the issue may be a motor problem requiring professional service.

The F23 error indicates that water has leaked into the base tray of the washing machine, triggering the flood protection switch (Aquastop system). Common causes include damaged door seals, leaking hoses, or drain pump issues. As an immediate step, turn off the water tap and check hoses for leaks and inspect the door seal gasket for tears or damage.

The F43 error indicates the washing machine's drum has stopped rotating or the motor is not functioning properly. Common causes include worn motor brushes, a blocked drum, or a control board failure detecting motor malfunction. First, perform an emergency drain, remove the load, and check that the drum rotates freely by hand; if it spins freely, the issue is likely motor or electrical, requiring professional service.

The 'NO' error indicates the washing machine cycle has been paused, either intentionally or accidentally (such as leaning on the pause button). The machine is displaying whether pausing is possible based on the current water level in the drum. This is typically not a fault but rather a status message. Simply resume the cycle by pressing the start button to continue normal operation.