Appliance Spares
Quick answer: The most common Bosch washing machine fault codes in Australia are E18/F18 (drainage fault—clean the pump filter first), E23 (drain pump electrical fault—usually requires pump replacement at ~$50), F43 (motor fault—call a technician), and E27 (mains supply or voltage fault—check power supply). Most drain-related faults are DIY-resolvable for under $50.
Not sure which one fits? Match your model number or check the sticker inside the door.
Decode any appliance error code — instant lookup
Parts: all Bosch washing machine parts · Part Finder — enter your model number
How Bosch error codes work
Bosch front load washing machines display fault codes on the programme selector panel or digital display. Depending on the model generation, codes are prefixed with either “E” or “F”—both prefixes refer to the same set of underlying fault conditions. An “E” code and the equivalent “F” code (e.g. E18 and F18) mean the same thing and have the same fix.
Some older models without a numeric display use a combination of flashing indicator lights to communicate fault codes. If your machine does not show a numeric code, consult the owner’s manual for the LED blink pattern legend.
Bosch washing machine error codes — quick reference
| Code | Meaning | Most common fix |
|---|---|---|
| E18 / F18 | Drain blocked or pump slow — water did not empty in time | Clean pump filter (free); replace pump if filter is clear (~$50) |
| E23 | Drain pump electrical fault — pump motor not responding | Replace drain pump (~$50) |
| F43 | Motor fault (some models) — motor issue detected | Call a qualified technician |
| E27 | Mains supply or voltage fault | Check power supply; call technician if supply is normal |
Note: Bosch fault code definitions can vary across model series and firmware versions. The codes above are well-established for the majority of Bosch front loaders sold in Australia. Always verify against your model’s service documentation for definitive code meanings.
E18 / F18 — drainage fault
E18 and F18 are the same fault: the machine started a drain cycle and the water level did not drop to zero within the allotted time. This is the most common Bosch fault code in Australian service histories. In approximately 80% of cases, the cause is a blocked pump filter or a kinked drain hose—both free to fix.
If the filter and hose are clear, the drain pump motor itself has likely failed. Replacement pumps are available for most Bosch front loader models:
- WAP28380AU / WAP28482AU — $49.95
- WAW28620AU / WAW28790AU — $49.95
- WAW32640AU / WAY32891AU — $49.95
- WGA244U0AU / WVH28490AU — $49.95
Full guide: Bosch E18 error code · Bosch F18 error code
E23 — drain pump electrical fault
E23 indicates the drain pump motor has an electrical fault—the control board sent a command to drain and received no response, or detected an abnormal current signature from the pump. This is distinct from E18/F18: while E18 can be caused by a blockage, E23 is more directly a pump motor or wiring issue. Checking the filter is still a worthwhile first step in case a seized impeller is involved.
In the majority of E23 cases, replacing the drain pump resolves the fault. Full guide: Bosch E23 error code.
F43 — motor fault
F43 indicates a motor-related fault on some Bosch front loader models. Motor faults are not generally DIY repairs—the drive motor and associated electronics are complex components. If your machine is displaying F43, a qualified appliance technician should inspect it. Before calling a technician, try a full power reset: unplug the machine for five minutes, then plug back in and run a short cycle.
E27 — mains supply or voltage fault
E27 on most Bosch front loaders relates to the incoming mains supply or detected voltage. This can appear if the supply voltage is significantly outside the normal range, if there is a wiring fault in the wall outlet or plug, or in some cases if there is an issue with the machine’s internal power supply board. Check that the machine is plugged into a working outlet and that the outlet voltage is within the normal Australian range (230V AC). If the supply appears normal and E27 persists, contact a technician.
Door and inlet valve codes
In addition to the drain and motor codes above, Bosch machines can display codes related to the door interlock and water inlet valve. If your machine is not filling with water or showing door-related faults, these parts are commonly involved:
- Bosch door interlock 3-pin 00619468 — $48.95
- Door interlock WAN24126AU / WGG244ARAU — $43.95
- Bosch dual inlet valve 10010823 — $59.95
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Bosch show “F” codes instead of “E” codes?
Bosch uses both prefix letters across different model generations and production runs. F18 and E18 are the same fault; F43 is the same fault as E43 on models that use the E prefix. The fix is identical regardless of the letter shown.
How do I reset a Bosch error code?
Unplug the machine from the wall, wait 2–5 minutes, then plug back in. This clears the displayed code. However, if the underlying fault has not been repaired, the code will return on the next cycle.
My Bosch shows a code not listed here — what should I do?
Bosch has a wide range of error codes, and some are model-specific. Write down the exact code displayed, check your owner’s manual or Bosch’s support documentation for your specific model, and use the Part Finder to identify the correct replacement part if needed.
Is it safe to keep using the machine while a fault code is showing?
Generally no. Most fault codes cause the machine to halt mid-cycle for a reason. Running the machine repeatedly through failed cycles can cause additional wear. Fix the underlying fault before resuming normal use.
Where is the model number on my Bosch washing machine?
The model sticker is typically located on the inner door frame—visible when you open the door. It shows the model number and serial number. You will need the model number to identify the correct replacement parts.
Related
Disclaimer: this article is general information only and is provided without warranty of any kind. Appliance designs vary between models and production runs — always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, switch off and unplug the appliance before starting any work, and confirm parts against the model number on your appliance’s model sticker. Any repair is undertaken at your own risk and Oz Appliance Spares accepts no liability for injury, loss or damage arising from work performed after reading this guide, to the maximum extent permitted by law. If in doubt, use a qualified technician.
