The E16 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the aquastop or water inlet system has detected a fault, usually tied to low water flow, a blocked inlet valve, or a triggered leak sensor. In most cases you can clear it by checking the water supply and inlet hose before calling for service.
| Error code | E16 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Water inlet or aquastop fault — the dishwasher isn't detecting normal water flow into the tub |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher will usually stop mid-cycle until the fault clears |
| Time to fix | 10–30 minutes |
| Tools needed | Adjustable pliers, torch, towel (None for basic checks) |
What the E16 error means
E16 is triggered when the dishwasher's control board expects water to enter the tub within a set time but doesn't sense enough flow, or when the aquastop safety device (a float switch built into the inlet hose) picks up water where it shouldn't be. This is a protective code — it stops the cycle to prevent flooding or running dry. It's not usually a sign of major internal damage, but it does need attention before the dishwasher will run a full cycle again.
Common causes
- Water supply tap to the dishwasher is partly or fully closed
- Kinked, twisted, or trapped inlet hose behind the unit
- Blocked or clogged inlet filter/screen where the hose connects to the valve
- Faulty aquastop float switch giving a false leak reading
- Low household water pressure not meeting the minimum flow rate
- Failed water inlet valve that isn't opening properly
How to fix the E16 error
- Check the water tap — Make sure the tap feeding the dishwasher is fully open, not just cracked.
- Inspect the inlet hose — Pull the dishwasher out carefully and check the hose isn't kinked, twisted, or pinched against the cabinet.
- Clean the inlet filter — Disconnect the hose at the valve end, remove the small mesh filter, and rinse out any debris or limescale under a tap.
- Check for water under the unit — If there's a small puddle or spill, dry it fully since this can falsely trigger the aquastop float.
- Power cycle the dishwasher — Turn it off at the wall for 2–3 minutes, then restart to see if the code clears once flow is restored.
- Call an engineer if it persists — A repeated E16 after these checks usually points to a faulty inlet valve or aquastop device that needs replacing.
Water inlet issues like this are common across Bosch appliances, and troubleshooting often follows a similar pattern to other Bosch products. If you're also dealing with Bosch power tools, guides like Bosch Drill Won'T Start: Causes and How to Fix It or Bosch Drill Overheating During Use: Causes and How to Fix It use the same step-by-step approach: check the obvious first, then move to component-level faults.
FAQ
Can I keep using the dishwasher with an E16 error?
No, it's best to stop the cycle and fix the water flow issue first, since running with a blocked or restricted supply can strain the pump and valve.
Does E16 mean I need a new water inlet valve?
Not always. Most cases are caused by a closed tap, kinked hose, or blocked filter. A valve replacement is only needed if flow is confirmed but the dishwasher still won't fill.
Is E16 related to a leak in the dishwasher?
It can be. The aquastop system is designed to stop water flow if it detects a leak, so E16 sometimes shows up alongside a small pool of water under the unit rather than a low-flow issue.
