Error E5 in a Bosch washing machine

The E5 error appears on a Bosch washing machine at the very beginning of the cycle. The display shows a combination, the machine freezes, there's no water flow, and the drum doesn't spin. To continue the scheduled wash cycle, you'll need to determine the nature of the problem and fix it. We suggest you get to the bottom of the E5 error: decipher the code, examine the causes, run diagnostics, and develop a plan of action. We'll use the instructions and expert recommendations as a guide.

Let's decipher the code

There's no need to worry about the E5 error code—it's usually minor and easily fixable. If your Bosch washing machine displays this error code, it means the machine is unable to fill with water and start the wash cycle. Several problems can cause a malfunctioning water intake, so it's important not to rush, but to analyze the washing machine's behavior before the self-diagnostic system is triggered.

The best solution is observation. Here's the procedure:

• turn off the power supply to Bosch;
• wait 20-30 minutes;
• plug the power cord into the socket;
• open the detergent drawer halfway;
• turn on any quick washing program;
• we look into the powder receptacle, noting how the water enters the machine and into which compartments;
• We watch until “E5” appears on the display again.

Error E5 on Bosch washing machines indicates problems with water intake.

After this "test," it will become clear who is causing the error and what to do to fix it. In most cases, the cause is a clogged filler valve screen, a faulty capacitor, or electronic issues. The nature and extent of the problem can be more accurately determined by the telltale "symptoms."

"Mark" the trivial reasons

Error E5 often appears even without any other malfunctions. The most obvious and commonplace is that there's no water in the mains water supply or the pressure is too low. In this case, it's logical that the washing machine is unable to fill the drum and start the wash cycle.

The washing machine's system is designed to allocate a certain amount of time for each action. If the required amount of liquid doesn't reach the drum, an automatic failure occurs and the cycle is canceled.

No repairs are necessary as such—all that's left to do is identify the problem. Simply open the cold water tap and test the water pressure. If the flow is too weak or absent, washing is impossible. There are two ways to resolve this:

• wait until water appears (the pipes may be being repaired);
• Contact your housing office and find out the reason for the water shut-off (there is a high probability that an accident occurred, and the management company is unaware of the problem).

The Bosch washing machine displays E5 if the water supply in the house is turned off.

If there's water in the faucet, the problem lies elsewhere. First, check to see if the faucet dedicated to the washing machine is open. There are three possible causes: the valve is closed, open, or broken. In the latter two cases, the shutoff valve will need to be repaired or replaced.

Check the fill valve and its filter

Having established that the E5 error wasn't caused by external issues, it's time to move on to diagnosing the Bosch itself. Several internal problems can prevent a full diagnosis: a clogged filter mesh, a faulty inlet valve, or a broken control board. In the first two cases, you can fix the error yourself at home.

First, pay attention to the filter. It's possible the mesh is clogged with debris and is blocking water from entering the machine. To clean the filter element, follow these steps:

• disconnect the washing machine from the power supply and water supply;
• detach the inlet hose from the body;
• pay attention to the junction of the existing hose and the washing machine - there is an inlet valve and a mesh filter;
• assess the condition of the mesh (if the filter is dirty, you need to pry it up with a screwdriver, remove it and wash it).

A faulty fill valve can also cause E5. It can be repaired, but the process is long and labor-intensive. It is much faster, easier and more reliable to purchase a new analogue and replace the old device. The cost of an analogue is low, but prices depend on the Bosch model.

However, before heading to the store, you should verify that the valve is faulty. To do this, disconnect the wiring, unscrew the retaining bolts, and remove it from the housing. Then connect it directly to the inlet hose and apply a 220V current to each coil in turn. All that remains is to evaluate the system's functionality: when voltage is applied, the element should "open" and allow water to pass through. Then, use a multimeter to test the capacitor connector and the connected wires. If problems are detected, replace the valve with a new one.

If diagnostics don't reveal the cause, the problem is most likely with the board. We don't recommend attempting to troubleshoot the module yourself; it's best to consult a professional.

   

1 reader comment

1. September 30, 2020 at 9:58 PM

   Danil:

   Cool! Thank you so much. I'm in Turkey, and the locals couldn't "fix" my washing machine. But thanks to your manual, I did it! 🙂 It turns out the cold water valve was turned off. All the best!

   Answer