Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Switch the machine off and pull the plug from the wall.
- Place towels on the floor — the pump area holds residual water.
- Locate the pump filter access panel on the lower front of the machine (usually a small square flap).
- Open the panel. There will be a small drain hose and the main filter cap.
- Slowly open the small drain hose cap and let residual water drain into a shallow tray.
- Unscrew the pump filter cap counter-clockwise and remove it.
- Clean the filter under warm running water. Remove all foreign objects from inside the pump cavity.
- Check the drain hose at the back — ensure it is not kinked and the standpipe or sink drain is clear.
- Reinstall the filter (clockwise, firmly seated), close the panel, restore power, and run a spin/drain cycle.
If it's still not draining
- If the drain path looks clear but the code returns, the issue is more likely in the pump path or another less accessible restriction.
- If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
What This Error Means
E:00 / -18 on your Bosch washing machine means: The washing machine pump is blocked and cannot drain water from the drum. The machine detects this condition via its sensors and stops the current cycle to prevent further damage. The error will remain until the underlying cause is resolved.
The most frequent cause is foreign object (coin, button, bra underwire, sock) lodged in pump filter. Work through the causes listed below in order — the first cause is the most likely and the most straightforward to check.
Error E:00 / -18 is DIY-safe for most homeowners. The fix typically takes under 30 minutes and requires no specialist tools. Follow the steps below exactly — skipping steps is the most common reason the error returns.
The most visible symptom is standing water in the drum at the end of a cycle. Do not run another cycle until the blockage is cleared — standing water stresses the door seal and pump motor.
What users usually notice before this code
Bosch washing-machine warnings like this often appear after a fill problem, a drain slowdown, a badly balanced load, or a startup sequence that did not settle cleanly.
Common misdiagnoses
- Assuming the display code proves one exact failed part before the safe first checks are done.
- Blaming a pump or valve first when a blocked path, filter, hose, or household plumbing issue is still possible.
- Replacing a lock or latch too early when alignment, trapped laundry, or startup conditions may still explain the warning.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Bosch washing machine may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Foreign object (coin, button, bra underwire, sock) lodged in pump filter
Check first: SAFETY: Switch the machine off and pull the plug from the wall.
Water may remain inside the drum at the end of the cycle.
Likely cause: Lint or fabric debris buildup blocking the pump housing
Check first: Place towels on the floor — the pump area holds residual water.
Performance may drop because airflow, filtering, or draining is restricted.
Likely cause: Blocked or kinked drain hose
Check first: Locate the pump filter access panel on the lower front of the machine (usually a small square flap).
Common Causes
- Foreign object (coin, button, bra underwire, sock) lodged in pump filter
- Lint or fabric debris buildup blocking the pump housing
- Blocked or kinked drain hose
- Blocked sink drain or standpipe
What Not to Do
- Do not run another wash cycle without clearing the filter — standing water damages the drum seal over time
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Bosch washing machine display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Drain pump motor ($35–$80)
- Pump filter cover if cracked ($10–$20)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Bosch washing machine parts.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
Pump filter is clean and unobstructed but E00-18 returns after a drain cycle — pump motor failure
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Check all pockets before every wash — coins and small items are the leading cause of pump blockage
- Clean the pump filter every 3 months
Related Error Codes
E00-23
Bosch washing machine error E:00 / -23 usually means the leak-protection system has detected water in the base tray.
E:36 / -25 / -26
The drain pump is blocked by a foreign object or debris and cannot evacuate water from the drum.
E18
The washing machine is usually unable to drain water within the expected time.
Helpful guides for this problem
Guide
What to check before replacing a dishwasher drain pump
The checks worth doing before you blame the drain pump and spend money on a fix that may not be the real problem.
Guide
Before calling appliance service: the safe checks worth doing first
The simple checks that can save time, money, and a messy support call before you commit to service or parts.
Guide
How to tell if a dishwasher problem is drainage or leak-protection related
How to tell whether a dishwasher water-related warning is about drainage or a more cautious leak-protection stop.
When not to keep pushing DIY troubleshooting
Use the code page for one careful first pass, then stop if the same warning returns or the appliance still cannot get back to normal operation.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Bosch support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-07
Based on: Based on Bosch support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
Model coverage note: Bosch washing machine code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.