Bosch is known for making reliable, high-quality dishwashers. However, over time, wear and tear will still occur and cause various issues. If your Bosch dishwasher is displaying an “E24” error code, it means that the dishwasher is not draining properly. The issue is usually caused by a clogged filter. However, if the issue persists after cleaning the filter, the drain hose, drain pump, or drain pump cover are most likely causing the issue. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

This guide applies to the following models:

GM926710

SHE44C05UC/20

SHE44C06UC/17

SHE46C02UC/17

SHE46C05UC/17

SHE46C05UC/22

SHE46C06UC/17

SHE55M05UC/50

SHE55M05UC/52

SHE55M05UC/53

SHE56C02UC/17

SHE56C02UC/18

SHE56C05UC/17

SHE56C06UC/17

SHE56C07UC/17

SHI4302

SHI4306

SHI6802

SHI6805

SHI6806

SHX46A05UC/14/SERIAL: – 8210

1. Clean the Filter

Your Bosch dishwasher should have a filter, which is located at the bottom of the dishwasher. To locate the filter, remove the bottom dish rack and spray arm. Turn the top of the filter to remove it from the dishwasher. If the filter cannot easily be removed, check the dishwasher’s manual for filter removal instructions. Take the filter out of the dishwasher and clean it with warm soapy water. While you have the filter out, check the drain pump.

2. Check the Drain Pump

If there is an issue with the drain pump, the dishwasher should be displaying an E24 error code. However, if cleaning the filter has failed to fix the E24 error code, the drain pump may be clogged and causing the issue. A loose pump cover can also cause the E24 error code.

On most Bosch dishwashers, the pump cover and pump can be checked and cleared of blockages when the filter is removed. It is recommended to wear protective gloves when checking the pump for blockages, as the pump housing may contain sharp objects, like broken glass.

A teaspoon can be used to unclip the pump cover. With the cover removed, reach down and check for a blockage. Also check that the pump’s impeller can turn freely. An impeller that struggles to turn indicates that the drain pump is faulty.

Depending on the model, it may also be possible to check that the drain pump is working by lifting the float. The float is located near the filter. Depending on the model, if the drain pump is working, the dishwasher should activate the drain pump when you pull the float up. Make sure to keep your hands out of the drain pump area when lifting the float. If the E24 error persists, move on to the next step.

If you cannot access the pump, follow step 6 to remove the bottom kick plate to access it.

3. Check for Kinked Hoses

A kinked hose could be preventing the dishwasher from draining and causing the E24 error. Before moving on to the next step, check that the drain hose is not kinked. Be aware that if the drain hose is not connected to an air gap, it may be configured with a high loop to prevent wastewater from flowing back into the dishwasher. The high loop is needed to prevent other issues from occurring and is unlikely to be causing the E24 issue.

4. Clean the Dishwasher

If the dishwasher still drains, the E24 error could be resolved by running a cycle with a dishwasher cleaning solution. Bosch makes a dishwasher cleaner or another similar product that could be purchased and used. It is also possible to make a cleaning solution with white vinegar and to also use baking soda to unblock any blockages. Do not use a bleach-based cleaning solution if the interior of the dishwasher has stainless steel components.

You may wish to follow step 5 and disconnect the drain hose to check for blockages before running a cleaning solution through the dishwasher.

To clean with vinegar and baking soda:

1. Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl.
2. Place the bowl on the top rack in the dishwasher. Do not pour the vinegar directly into the dishwasher, as it will drain out when the dishwasher starts the cycle.
3. Run a normal cycle without any dishes or detergent in the dishwasher.
4. Sprinkle a cup of baking soda into the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle.

If the E24 error code is not resolved, move on to the next step.

5. Check the Air Gap / Disposal / S-Trap

The dishwasher’s drain hose should connect to either an air gap, garbage disposal, or S-trap under the sink. If you disconnect the drain hose, you may find the blockage that is causing the E24 error. Cleaning the air gap, garbage disposal, or S-trap may also solve the issue.

6. Check the Drain Hose & Drain Pump

If the above solutions have not resolved the E24 error code, the dishwasher’s drain hose may be blocked where it connects to the drain pump. The drain pump may also be obstructed or defective. Although, a defective drain pump should display an E25 error code.

The hose can also be removed from the dishwasher and thoroughly cleaned of any blockages. Before accessing the drain pump and removing the drain hose, check for any other issues that indicate that the control board is defective and causing the E24 error.

To access the drain hose and drain pump:

1. For safety, disconnect the power to the dishwasher and turn off the water supply to the dishwasher.
2. Remove the screws securing the kick panel at the bottom front of the dishwasher.
3. If necessary, remove the wiring harness.

Check the drain pump:

The drain pump can fail to drain the dishwasher if something is obstructing it or if the pump motor has failed. The pump should be checked for obstructions and that the impeller turns freely. If the impeller on the pump does not turn freely, the drain pump will likely need to be replaced. The drain pump can be tested with a multimeter using the ohms setting or by removing it from the dishwasher and then testing it for continuity. If the motor tests negative for continuity, it will need to be replaced.

Check the drain hose:

1. Locate the drain hose, which should be connected to the drain pump. Most models will also have a recirculation hose that can also be checked for blockages.
2. Place a towel or container beneath the hose to catch any water that may spill.
3. Disconnect the drain hose from the drain pump by removing the wire clamp with pliers. See if you can clear the blockage – a drain snake can be used.
4. If necessary, detach the drain hose from under the sink.
5. Clean the drain hose with hot water to dissolve soap build-up, and/or use a drain snake or drain cleaning tool.
6. Return the drain hose to the dishwasher.

Hopefully, the E24 issue has now been resolved. If the error persists, the control board may be defective. Contact a trained professional to resolve the issue.