What Does Error Code E68 Mean on a Bosch Washing Machine?
Check and clean the filter, then inspect the heating element connections — unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and reseat any loose wiring connectors on the heating element and NTC sensor; this resolves a significant proportion of E68 faults (takes about 15 minutes).
Fault description
Error code E68 points to a problem in your Bosch washing machine's heating circuit. This circuit is responsible for raising the water temperature to the level you've selected on the programme dial. When the machine detects that heating is not behaving as expected — whether the water isn't reaching the right temperature or the sensor is sending back an out-of-range reading — it stops the cycle and displays E68.
When this error appears, the wash cycle will typically pause or fail to complete, and the machine may lock the door until the fault is cleared. You might also notice that your laundry comes out cold even on a hot wash setting, or that the cycle runs for an unusually long time before stopping.
The good news is that several of the most common causes behind E68 are accessible to a careful homeowner with basic tools. Working through the steps below in order will help you identify whether this is a simple fix or something that needs professional attention.
Causes
- Faulty or loose wiring connections to the heating element — Vibration from regular use can loosen the electrical connectors that attach to the heating element terminals. A poor connection causes the heating circuit to behave erratically, triggering E68.
- Failed or degraded heating element — Over time, the heating element can burn out or develop a partial fault where it no longer heats efficiently. This is one of the most common hardware failures in washing machines and will prevent the water from reaching the set temperature.
- Defective NTC temperature sensor — The NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) sensor monitors water temperature and reports back to the control board. If it fails or drifts out of calibration, the machine receives incorrect temperature readings and raises the E68 fault.
- Damaged wiring harness between the control board and heating components — The wiring loom running from the main PCB to the heating element and sensor can suffer from chafing, heat damage, or corrosion. Even a single broken wire in this harness is enough to trigger a heating circuit fault.
- Main control board (PCB) fault — In less common cases, the PCB itself may be misreading signals from the heating circuit or failing to send the correct voltage to the element. This is usually only suspected after all other components have been checked and found to be in good condition.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Power cycle the machine
Switch the machine off at the mains and unplug it. Wait at least 10 minutes to allow any residual charge to dissipate, then plug it back in and run a short hot wash cycle. Occasionally a transient electrical spike can trigger E68, and a full power reset clears it without any further action needed.
- 2
Check the selected wash programme
Make sure you haven't accidentally selected a cold wash or a delicate programme that limits heating. Some Bosch models will flag a heating-related code if the programme settings conflict with internal parameters. Select a standard 40°C or 60°C cotton cycle and try again.
- 3
Inspect the heating element wiring connections
Unplug the machine and pull it away from the wall. Remove the rear panel (usually held by two or three screws). Locate the heating element at the bottom of the drum — it has two or more spade connectors attached to it. Press each connector firmly onto its terminal to ensure a solid contact. Refit the panel, plug in, and test.
- 4
Test the NTC temperature sensor
With the machine unplugged and the rear panel removed, locate the NTC sensor — it is typically clipped into the heating element body or mounted nearby on the drum casing. Disconnect its plug and use a multimeter set to resistance (Ohms) to test it. At room temperature, a healthy NTC sensor typically reads between 4,000 and 10,000 Ohms depending on the model. A reading of zero or infinity suggests the sensor has failed and needs replacing.
- 5
Test the heating element for continuity
With the machine still unplugged and the rear panel off, disconnect both spade connectors from the heating element. Set your multimeter to continuity or resistance mode and touch the probes to the two terminals. A working element typically reads between 20 and 50 Ohms. No continuity (open circuit) means the element has burned out and must be replaced. Also test between each terminal and the metal casing — any reading here indicates an earth fault.
- 6
Inspect the wiring harness for visible damage
Trace the wiring from the heating element and NTC sensor back towards the control board. Look for any wires that are pinched, melted, corroded, or have cracked insulation. Pay particular attention to areas where the harness passes through metal panels, as chafing is common here. Damaged sections of wire should be repaired or the harness replaced.
- 7
Reset the error and run a test cycle
After completing any repairs or replacements, refit all panels, plug the machine back in, and run a full 60°C cotton cycle to confirm the fault has cleared. If E68 returns after replacing both the element and the NTC sensor, the fault is likely within the control board itself.
Affected models
Select your model to see its full troubleshooting page.
When to call a service technician
If you have tested and replaced both the heating element and the NTC temperature sensor and the E68 code continues to appear, the fault most likely lies within the main control board (PCB). PCB diagnosis and replacement requires specialist equipment and a good understanding of circuit behaviour — this is not a straightforward DIY repair and carries a risk of further damage if handled incorrectly.
You should also contact a service technician if you find burnt or melted wiring inside the machine, if you detect any burning smell during operation, or if the machine trips your household circuit breaker when it attempts to heat. These symptoms suggest an electrical fault that needs professional assessment before the machine is used again.
Spare parts and service
Visit our partners for spare parts and service
Spare parts
Book a repair
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my Bosch washing machine while it shows E68?
It is not advisable to continue using the machine with an active E68 fault. If the heating element has developed an earth fault, running the machine could pose an electrical safety risk. It is best to investigate and resolve the fault before using the appliance again.
How do I clear the E68 error code after fixing the fault?
On most Bosch models, the error code clears automatically once the underlying fault is resolved and the machine completes a successful cycle. If the code persists after your repair, try switching the machine off at the mains for 10 minutes and then running a fresh cycle. Consult your model's manual if the code remains, as some models require a specific reset sequence.
How much does it typically cost to replace a Bosch washing machine heating element?
A replacement heating element for a Bosch washing machine typically costs between £20 and £50 for the part itself, depending on the model. If you are comfortable doing the replacement yourself, that is the only cost. A service technician call-out to supply and fit the part will usually add £60 to £120 in labour, varying by region.
Could a blocked filter cause an E68 error?
A blocked pump filter does not directly cause E68, which is specific to the heating circuit. However, a heavily soiled machine with restricted water flow can indirectly stress heating components over time. It is still good practice to clean the filter every few months as part of general maintenance.
Is E68 the same fault on all Bosch washing machine models?
The E68 code consistently relates to the heating circuit across Bosch washing machine ranges, but the exact component at fault and the location of parts can vary between models. Always cross-reference your specific model number when ordering replacement parts, and check your machine's manual or the Bosch support website for model-specific wiring diagrams if needed.