The E23 error on your Bosch Dishwasher means the drain pump circuit has failed or is blocked, so water is not being pumped out at the end of the cycle. Clearing the drain pump and hose of debris usually resolves it.
| Error code | E23 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Drain pump fault — the pump is jammed, blocked, or has failed electrically |
| Severity | Medium — the dishwasher won't drain properly until fixed |
| Time to fix | 15–40 minutes |
| Tools needed | Towel, small bowl, screwdriver (Phillips or flat-head), gloves |
What the E23 error means
E23 is triggered when the dishwasher's control board detects that the drain pump isn't working as expected. This is usually because the pump's impeller is physically blocked by food debris, glass, or a broken bit of plastic, or because the pump motor itself has failed. In some cases it's an electrical connection issue rather than a mechanical one.
Common causes
- Food particles, labels, or broken glass stuck in the drain pump impeller
- A blocked or kinked drain hose preventing water from leaving the machine
- A clogged filter at the bottom of the dishwasher tub restricting water flow
- A failed or seized drain pump motor
- Loose or corroded wiring connections at the pump
- A blocked air gap or kitchen sink drain connection (if fitted)
How to fix the E23 error
- Turn off power — Switch off the dishwasher at the wall and unplug it before doing any checks, for safety.
- Remove standing water — Use a towel and small bowl to bail out any water sitting at the bottom of the tub.
- Clean the filter — Twist and lift out the mesh filter assembly at the bottom of the tub, rinse it under a tap, and clear any trapped debris.
- Check the drain pump — Access the pump (usually beneath the filter or via the base panel) and remove any visible obstructions from the impeller blades by hand.
- Inspect the drain hose — Detach the hose and check for kinks, clogs, or a blocked air gap, clearing anything that restricts water flow.
- Reset and test — Reconnect everything, restore power, and run a short cycle to confirm the error has cleared. If E23 returns, the pump motor likely needs replacing by an engineer.
FAQ
Can I run the dishwasher again after an E23 error?
No, clear the blockage or fault first. Running it again with a bad pump can cause water to sit in the tub and may damage the motor further.
Is E23 dangerous or just an inconvenience?
It's not a safety hazard, but it will stop your dishwasher completing cycles properly, so it's worth fixing promptly to avoid standing water and odours.
Do I need a professional to fix E23?
Not always. Many cases are cleared by cleaning the filter and pump yourself. If the pump motor has failed electrically, you'll need a qualified engineer or replacement part.
For other Bosch appliance troubleshooting guides, see our articles on Bosch Drill Won'T Start: Causes and How to Fix It, Bosch Drill Overheating During Use: Causes and How to Fix It, Bosch Drill Chuck Won'T Tighten: Causes and How to Fix It, and Bosch Drill Battery Not Connecting: Causes and How to Fix It.
