Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E06 — What It Means and How to Fix It
Error code E06 on a Bosch dishwasher commonly points to a problem in the appliance’s heating or temperature-detection subsystem. Depending on the model and year, E06 is often logged when the control board detects an unexpected temperature reading (thermistor/NTC sensor fault), an open/shorted heating element, or a communication/wiring fault between the heater/thermistor and the main electronic board. When this happens the dishwasher may pause heating or stop the cycle to protect the appliance and your home. Typical user impacts include longer wash or drying times, poor cleaning or sanitizing performance, unexpected cycle interruptions, increased energy use, and — in rare cases — a risk of overheating if the temperature sensor has failed to report correctly. Because heating elements and sensors are part of the dishwasher’s safety and sanitization systems, addressing E06 promptly helps avoid ongoing performance loss and safety hazards.
Common Causes
- Faulty NTC temperature sensor (thermistor) or intermittent thermistor connection
- Defective heating element (open or short circuit)
- Damaged wiring harness or loose connectors between sensor/element and control board
- Malfunctioning control board (PCB) or driver relay that powers the heater
- Control software/firmware glitch requiring a reset
- Shorted or failed flow meter causing incorrect cycle sequencing (on some models)
- Corrosion or water intrusion affecting electrical connectors or sensor contacts
Troubleshooting Steps
- Safety first: disconnect power by unplugging the dishwasher or switching off the breaker before inspecting internal components.
- Reset the dishwasher: many Bosch units clear transient faults with a power cycle — turn off power for 60 seconds, then restore and run a quick cycle. Check if E06 returns.
- Inspect external issues: ensure water supply is stable, filters and spray arms are clean, and the door latches properly. Sometimes secondary faults can trigger sensor error codes.
- Check the error log and diagnostic mode: enter the Bosch service diagnostics (refer to your model’s manual) to read historical errors and run a heater/NTC test cycle.
- Visual inspection: remove the toe-kick and access panels to inspect wiring to the heating element and thermistor for burn marks, corrosion, loose or unplugged connectors.
- Test the thermistor (NTC sensor): with power off, measure resistance with a multimeter at room temperature and compare to your model’s specification (consult the service manual). A wildly out-of-range value indicates a bad sensor.
- Test the heating element: check for continuity with a multimeter and look for signs of short to ground. An open circuit means a failed heater; a shorted heater is dangerous and must be replaced.
- Check control board relays and connectors: if thermistor and heater test good, the board may not be supplying power correctly. Look for blown components, swollen capacitors, or burned traces.
- Swap or reseat connectors: sometimes simply disconnecting and reconnecting sensor and heater plugs eliminates intermittent faults due to oxidation.
- If unsure or if tests show control-board faults, call a qualified Bosch technician for further diagnosis and safe replacement of electronic components.
Maintenance / Prevention Tips
- Run your dishwasher regularly to prevent seals and sensors from corroding or sticking.
- Use the manufacturer-recommended detergent and rinse aid to avoid buildup on sensors and heating elements.
- Clean filters, spray arms, and the sump monthly to maintain proper water flow and reduce stress on components.
- Inspect and clean the door seal and hidden connectors during periodic maintenance to prevent moisture intrusion.
- Use a water softener or appropriate salt in hard-water areas to minimize scaling on the heating element.
- Avoid overloading dishes or blocking heating element areas to ensure correct water circulation and heating.
- Leave the dishwasher door slightly ajar after runs to reduce trapped moisture and corrosion risk.
- Check and replace old or brittle wiring harnesses when you service other parts to prevent future shorts.
- Schedule an annual appliance check with a qualified technician if you rely on the dishwasher heavily.
- When replacing parts, use Bosch OEM components to ensure compatibility with sensors and the control board.
- Keep the area under and around the dishwasher dry to minimize electrical connector corrosion.
- Record error codes and symptoms — this helps technicians diagnose intermittent E06 faults faster.
FAQs
Q: Is E06 dangerous?
A: E06 itself is a protective signal from the dishwasher. It usually means a temperature or heating-related mismatch that the control board detected and stopped the heater or cycle to prevent damage. While not immediately dangerous, you should not ignore repeated E06 codes — they can indicate failing components that affect sanitization and could, in rare cases, lead to overheating if left unresolved.
Q: Can I fix E06 myself?
A: Basic checks like resetting the unit, inspecting visible wiring, and cleaning filters are safe for most homeowners. Testing the thermistor or heating element with a multimeter is doable if you are comfortable working safely with disassembled appliances and have the right tools. However, if the control board needs repair or you’re uncertain, call a qualified technician.
Q: How much does it cost to repair?
A: Costs vary by region and the failed part. A replacement thermistor or sensor is typically low-cost; a heating element or control board is more expensive and labor-intensive. Expect a small part plus labor for sensor replacement, or higher costs if the main PCB or heater must be replaced.
Q: Will resetting the dishwasher clear the code permanently?
A: A reset can clear transient errors, but if the underlying fault persists (bad sensor, heater, wiring), E06 will likely reappear. Use reset as a first step, then perform diagnostic checks if it returns.
Conclusion & Safety Notice
Addressing E06 promptly helps restore cleaning performance and limits safety risks. If troubleshooting points to a failed thermistor, heating element, or control board, replace the faulty components and verify connections. Always disconnect power before opening panels and avoid testing live circuits unless you are trained and equipped for such work.
If you are not comfortable performing electrical diagnostics or the tests indicate a control-board or heater failure, contact a Bosch-authorized service technician. Professional repair ensures correct part selection, safe installation, and can protect your appliance warranty.
Need help diagnosing your specific Bosch model? Record the exact model number and any additional error codes or symptoms, then contact Bosch support or a certified repair service for the fastest, safest resolution.
Affected Appliance Models
| Model Number |
|---|
| SHPxx |
| SHVxx |
| SHXxx |
| SMSxx |
| SHExx |
