What E03 means on your Bosch dishwasher
Error code E03 indicates that the dishwasher did not fill with water within the expected timeframe. The control board opens the water inlet valve and monitors the flow meter or pressure switch. If the expected volume of water hasn’t arrived within a set time limit — typically 5–8 minutes — E03 is triggered and the cycle is aborted to prevent running the pump and heater without water.
Symptoms
- The dishwasher makes no filling sounds after starting
- The cycle stops shortly after pressing Start
- E03 appears on the display
- The tub is empty or has minimal water when you open the door
Common causes
- Water supply turned off — the shut-off valve under the sink is closed, often after plumbing work or after moving back into a home
- Kinked inlet hose — the braided supply hose is pinched behind the dishwasher
- Clogged inlet screen — the small mesh filter inside the water inlet valve connection traps sediment over time
- Failed inlet valve — the solenoid valve doesn’t open despite receiving a signal from the control board
- Low water pressure — household pressure below 20 psi prevents adequate fill speed
Troubleshooting steps you can try
- Check the water supply — verify the shut-off valve under the sink is fully open. Turn it off and back on to confirm it moves freely.
- Inspect the inlet hose — pull the dishwasher out slightly and check that the supply hose isn’t kinked or crushed.
- Clean the inlet screen — turn off the water supply, disconnect the hose at the dishwasher, and remove the small mesh screen. Clean under running water.
- Test water pressure — run the kitchen faucet while no other fixtures are in use. Weak flow suggests a supply issue, not a dishwasher problem.
When to call a technician
If the water supply is confirmed and the inlet screen is clean but E03 persists, the inlet valve solenoid has likely failed. The valve is located at the base of the dishwasher where the supply hose connects. A technician will test the valve’s resistance (typically 500–1,500 ohms for the solenoid) and replace it if needed. This is a 20–30 minute repair. Codes may vary by model generation and series.
Need help? Schedule Bosch Dishwasher repair with a certified technician, or contact our team for a free diagnosis consultation.
