Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Switch off and unplug the machine. Place towels on the floor.
- Open the pump filter access panel on the lower front of the machine.
- Slowly open the small drain hose to release residual water into a tray.
- Unscrew and remove the pump filter counter-clockwise.
- Clean the filter under warm water and inspect the pump cavity with a torch.
- Remove any foreign objects from the pump impeller using needle-nose pliers.
- Reinstall the filter firmly, close the panel, restore power, and run a 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:36 / -25 / -26 on your Bosch washing machine means: The drain pump is blocked by a foreign object or debris and cannot evacuate 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 coin, button, underwire, or small item lodged in the pump impeller. Work through the causes listed below in order — the first cause is the most likely and the most straightforward to check.
Error E:36 / -25 / -26 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.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Bosch washing machine may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Coin, button, underwire, or small item lodged in the pump impeller
Check first: SAFETY: Switch off and unplug the machine. Place towels on the floor.
Water may remain inside the drum at the end of the cycle.
Likely cause: Heavy lint or fabric snagged inside the pump housing
Check first: Open the pump filter access panel on the lower front of the machine.
The appliance may fail to start because the door or lock state cannot be confirmed.
Likely cause: Debris accumulation not caught by the pump filter
Check first: Slowly open the small drain hose to release residual water into a tray.
Common Causes
- Coin, button, underwire, or small item lodged in the pump impeller
- Heavy lint or fabric snagged inside the pump housing
- Debris accumulation not caught by the pump filter
What Not to Do
- Do not run the machine with a blocked pump — motor overheating results
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 cap ($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 cavity is clear but drain pump will not run — motor failure
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Check all pockets before washing — coins and small items are the primary cause
- Clean the pump filter every 3 months
Related Error Codes
E:36 / -10
The washing machine cannot drain because the drain pipe or outlet hose is blocked or kinked.
E:38 / -25 / -26
The drain pump is blocked. On this code variant, Bosch recommends cleaning the drum first, then cleaning the pump if the error persists.
E:00 / -18
The washing machine pump is blocked and cannot drain water from the drum.
E18
The washing machine is usually unable to drain water within the expected time.
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.