E5 error on a Bosch dishwasher: A troubleshooting guide

Having problems with your Bosch dishwasher? If it’s displaying an E5 error code, it most likely indicates the dishwasher has reached its preset safety water level, which means the water probably isn’t draining properly. But it’s your lucky day, because you can troubleshoot & fix this error message yourself, without an expensive service call!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Bosch dishwasher while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What the E5 error code means

On Bosch dishwashers, an E5 error usually indicates that the safety water level has been reached. This occurs when more water has entered the dishwasher than what the drain pump can remove. Essentially, the dishwasher tub has overflowed.

If your dishwasher fills with water but won’t wash and shows an E5 error, then there’s most likely a blockage in the drain path.

Read more: What cycle should I run my dishwasher on?

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

Read more: Reduce Water Usage In Your Dishwasher

How to clear the E5 error from your Bosch dishwasher

Get your Bosch dishwasher back up and running with these troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Check the water pressure

If your home has unusually high incoming water pressure exceeding 120 PSI, the excess pressure can potentially overflow the dishwasher tub before the drain pump removes it.

Use a water pressure gauge on the supply line to measure your home’s water pressure. If it surpasses 120 PSI, install a pressure-reducing valve to lower it so your dishwasher can work correctly.

If the water pressure is good, continue troubleshooting.

Step 2: Check for a clogged non-return valve

The non-return valve (NRV) prevents dirty drain water from flowing back into the dishwasher tub. If the NRV gets clogged, water can’t exit the machine properly.

You may need to remove the dishwasher tub to access and clean the NRV.

Step 3: Check the drain pump

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
2. Shut off the water supply to the dishwasher.
3. Use a screwdriver to remove the access panel below the dishwasher door (also called the toe-kick). This gives you access to the drain pump.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the dishwasher needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

4. Plug the dishwasher back in and turn it on.
5. Set a multimeter to Volts AC mode.
6. Use the meter probes to check for voltage at the electrical connection to the drain pump during the drain cycle.
7. Check the meter reading. If voltage is present, then the drain pump motor or impeller is faulty.
8. Unplug the dishwasher from the outlet.
9. Remove the drain pump housing.
10. Make sure the impeller spins with minimal resistance. Check for any blockages or debris. Replace the pump if it’s damaged or if the impeller is broken.

If the drain pump and its impeller are good, continue to the next step.

Step 4: Inspect the drain hose

1. Make sure the dishwasher is unplugged from the outlet.
2. Pull the dishwasher away from the wall to access the drain hose.
3. Disconnect the drain hose from the dishwasher outlet. Inspect both ends of the hose for debris.
4. Flush the drain hose with water to remove any accumulated sediment or food particles.
5. Reconnect the drain hose and make sure it’s securely connected. Check that there’s no sagging or kinks.
6. Examine the full length of the drain hose for cracks or damage. Make sure the hose isn’t crushed where it contacts the floor or cabinets.

If the hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.

If the hose looks good, move on to the next step.

Step 5: Check the float switch

A small float switch is located on the side of the dishwasher tub. It detects when water levels get too high. If debris obstructs the float switch, it won’t be able to read water levels.

1. Remove the dishwasher from under the counter. Find the float switch on the left side of the tub.
2. Remove any debris surrounding the float switch. Make sure it moves up and down freely.
3. Set a multimeter to continuity mode.
4. Use the meter probes to check for continuity as you move the float up and down. If you don’t get continuity when the float is up, you’ll need to replace the float switch.

If the switch doesn’t activate properly, detach the float switch from the dishwasher tub. Inspect it for damage and replace it if needed.

If the float and switch check out OK, move on to the next step.

Step 6: Test the control board

The control board controls the dishwasher based on feedback from parts like the float switch. It also triggers the drain pump to empty water.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the dishwasher needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Set a multimeter to Volts AC.
2. Initiate a drain cycle and use the meter probes to check for power at the drain pump’s electrical connector. If you don’t get 120 VAC, then the control board is likely the culprit.
3. Unplug the dishwasher.
4. Check that all the ribbon cables and electrical leads are securely connected to the control board. Reseat any loose connections you find.
5. Look over the control board for any damage. If you find any burn spots, cracks or other signs of damage, replace the board.
6. If voltage is being sent to the drain pump but it still doesn’t activate, replace the main control board.

Pro tip: Control boards can fail due to power surges. Invest in a good quality surge protector for your dishwasher to prevent control board damage.

Read more: How to clean dishwasher spray arms

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Bosch dishwasher working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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