Bosch is a German company famous for making high-quality, well-engineered auto parts and appliances. Bosch dishwashers are particularly renowned for their cutting-edge features and long-lasting lifespan. However, even the best-made dishwashers will eventually have an issue that triggers an error code. When an error code is triggered, the dishwasher will often stop working, so you will want to diagnose and fix the issue as soon as possible.

If your Bosch dishwasher has an error code E15, it indicates that there is water in the base of the dishwasher. In most cases, this error code is easy to fix, but it may require removing the dishwasher’s front panel and kickplate. The cause will also need to be investigated to ensure the error code does not return and to prevent further damage to the dishwasher or your home.

Follow the steps below to fix a Bosch dishwasher E15 error code.

This guide applies to most Bosch dishwashers, including the following models:

GM926710, SHE43P25UC/64, SHE45M05UC/50, SHE45M05UC/50, SHE45M06UC/50, SHE45M06UC/50, SHE4AP06UC/06, SHE4AP06UC/06, SHE55M12UC/64, SHE55M15UC/64, SHE55M16UC/64, SHE55M16UC/64, SHE58C05UC/48, SHI4302, SHI4306, SHI6802

Step 1: Try to clear the error code

The Bosch E15 error code is likely indicating too much water in the dishwasher; however, the error code could also be due to a control board glitch. If the error code was caused by a glitch, performing a hard reset by disconnecting the power to the dishwasher for five minutes should clear the error code. If the error code returns, the water in the base of the dishwasher will need to be removed.

Step 2: Consider the tilt method

Another way to quickly clear the error code and potentially solve the problem is to tilt the dishwasher backward at a 45-degree angle. However, tilting the dishwasher is unlikely to be a long-term fix, and it may cause further damage to the dishwasher. It is also unlikely that you will locate and fix the cause of the error code, which could be a potentially dangerous leak.

If you decide to pursue this method to resolve the E15 error code, the dishwasher will need to be pulled out from under the kitchen cabinet and then carefully tilted back at a 45-degree angle.

When you tilt the dishwasher, the water in the base should come out and clear the error code. Make sure to disconnect the power and water from the dishwasher before moving it, and put something down to catch the water that comes out. Once the power is restored, the error code should have cleared.

Step 3: Remove the water and reset the water level safety switch

In most cases, the best way to resolve the Bosch dishwasher E15 error code is to wipe up the water in the base of the dishwasher and reset the water level safety switch.

Access to the safety switch will require the removal of the outer dishwasher door panel and the dishwasher’s kickplate. Depending on the model, a T20 or T15 Torx screwdriver, or a Phillips-head screwdriver, can usually be used to remove the outer door panel and kickplate.

Follow these steps to access the dishwasher’s water level safety switch:

1. Disconnect the power to the dishwasher, either by unplugging it or by turning off the power in your home’s electrical panel.
2. Turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
3. Open the dishwasher door and lay it down flat.
4. Locate and remove the six screws around the inner door that join the door’s inner and outer panels.
5. Carefully return the dishwasher door to the upright position.
6. Remove the outer dishwasher door panel.
7. Remove the dishwasher’s toe kick plate or bottom access panel by untreading the screws that secure it.

Once the outer door panel and the kickplate have been removed, you should have access to the base of the dishwasher and the basin in the center where the safety switch is located. Typically, the safety switch has a plastic cover over it, and you should find a polystyrene disk beneath the switch.

How does the safety switch work?

The safety switch is secured above the polystyrene disk and basin. When the water rises in the basin, the polystyrene disk floats up with the water. If there is too much water, the disk activates the safety switch, which triggers the E15 error code.

Follow these steps to reset the switch and clear the E15 error code:

1. Remove the safety switch by twisting it to the side and pulling on it.
2. Remove the polystyrene disk. Be careful not to damage it.
3. Use a towel or cloth to mop up the water in the basin and dry the disk.
4. Check that there is nothing in the basin that may interfere with the safety switch process, like wiring, an insect, or food debris.
5. Place the polystyrene disk back in the basin.
6. Place the safety switch back in the basin. Make sure it is secured properly.
7. Check that the wiring in the dishwasher base is not damaged. If there is damaged wiring, a trained technician will most likely need to replace it.
8. Check for what caused the E15 error code. Is a hose leaking? Can you see any damage that could be causing a leak?
9. Reassemble the dishwasher.

The Bosch dishwasher error code E15 should now be cleared. However, you should also determine what caused the error code and make sure you fix the issue. It is possible that the error code was triggered by using the wrong detergent and not because of a leak (see below).

What causes the Bolsch dishwasher E15 error code?

• A detergent that is not recommended for your dishwasher
• Too much detergent
• Clogged or damaged spray arms that are directing water in the wrong direction
• A leak in the sump basin (the area where the filter is located)
• Hoses that are leaking
• A leaking water tank

Conclusion

A Bosch E15 error code is caused by there being too much water in the base of the dishwasher. The best way to fix the E15 error code is to remove the water from the basin and reset the safety switch. However, you will also need to determine what caused the error code and take steps to avoid it happening again.