E04 error code on a Bosch / Siemens washer: A troubleshooting guide

Don’t let an E04 error code disrupt your laundry routine. This error usually points to a problem with the control on Bosch and Siemens washers.​​

Let’s find out how you can diagnose and resolve the E04 error — without an expensive service call.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Bosch washing machine 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.

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.
• 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.
• 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.

Read more: Tips For Preventing Laundry Damage in Your Washing Machine

How to troubleshoot the E04 error code

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the E04 fault code on your Bosch or Siemens washing machine.

Step 1: Enter diagnostic mode

Bosch and Siemen’s washers have built-in self-diagnostic modes.

To activate it:

1. Make sure the washer is plugged into the power outlet.
2. Turn the washer’s cycle selector to the Off position.
3. Press and hold the Spin selection and Delay start buttons while turning the dial counterclockwise to the permanent press cold cycle.
4. Hold the buttons until the display shows “P:01” (for Bosch washing machine models) or “P1: Errors” (on Siemens washing machine models).

This will bring up the list of recorded error codes.

Try to start a wash cycle and see if the E04 error code appears. The code will flash intermittently if it’s active. If this is the case, you’ll need to replace the control module.

Step 2: Replace the control module (if needed)

The control module manages all the washer’s electronics. If the module is defective, it can cause seemingly random issues with your washer.

Here’s how to replace the control module:

1. Remove the four T-20 Torx screws from the front and sides of the fascia panel.
2. Lift the fascia panel up. NOTE: The control knob is attached to the panel and can’t be removed.
3. If there are caps over the screws, remove them with a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to scratch the panel or caps.
4. Use a small flathead screwdriver to release the locking tabs around the outside of the housing and 3 inner tabs.
5. Lift the old control module off.
6. Align the new control module with the housing and press down firmly to lock the tabs back in place.
7. Lower the fascia panel back into place.
8. Secure the fascia panel by replacing the four T-20 Torx screws into the front and sides.
9. Replace any screw caps that were removed earlier.

Read more: Surprising Things That Can & Can’t Go in the Washer

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Bosch or Siemens washer 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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