Bosch Washing Machine E23 Error: Meaning, Causes & Safe Checks

E23 Likely needs an engineer Engineer only

Quick answer

Bosch E23 (or F23) means the machine has detected a leak or water in its base. Turn the water supply tap off straight away and don’t use the machine until it has been repaired. This isn’t a DIY fault: book a Bosch engineer, and keep the water off in the meantime.

Also shown as F23

What E23 means on a Bosch washing machine

The machine has detected a leak or water in its base plate, and its AquaStop leak protection may have activated.

Applies to: Bosch washing machines, including models with an AquaStop hose. Some models show F23.

What you might notice

Likely causes

Why this isn’t a DIY job

The water has collected in the base plate inside the machine, underneath its electrical parts. Finding the leak means removing panels, and Bosch says not to use the machine until it has been repaired. Don’t try to drain the base or tilt the machine yourself.

What to do now

Stop and call a qualified engineer if:
  • The manufacturer says not to use the appliance with this fault. Leave it switched off and unplugged until it has been repaired.
  • The appliance reports water in its base (an anti-flood or AquaStop-type warning). Keep the water supply off and book an engineer.
  • Water is leaking from inside the appliance or is near the plug or socket. Don’t touch the plug with wet hands or while standing in water. Switch off at the consumer unit instead.
  • The next step would mean removing a cover or panel, or working on the pump, valves, heater, motor, door lock or wiring. That is a job for a qualified engineer.
  • The appliance is still under warranty. Contact the manufacturer first, because DIY work can affect your cover.

There are no safe repair checks for E23. Make the washing machine safe as below, don’t keep restarting it, and book an engineer.

Turn off the water and switch the appliance off

  1. Close the water supply tap to the appliance.
  2. Switch the appliance off. Only unplug it at the wall if the plug, socket and floor around it are dry. Otherwise switch it off at the consumer unit.
  3. Mop up water on the floor so nobody slips.

When to call an engineer

E23 needs an engineer. Once the washing machine is safe, contact Bosch or a qualified appliance engineer. Have the model and serial number from the rating label ready, and start with Bosch UK support.

Repair or replace?

E23 needs an engineer. Before you book, find the model number and purchase date. If it’s under warranty or an extended plan, contact Bosch first. Out of warranty, ask for a quote and weigh it against the age of the washing machine. We don’t publish repair prices because they vary by area, part and model.

Related problems

Related codes

Questions people ask

Can I reset E23 and carry on?

No. Bosch says not to use the machine until it has been fixed. Keep the water supply off and book a repair.

Different code or symptom? Use the fault finder, see all Bosch washing machine codes, or read how Bosch codes work. Not sure it’s safe? Read our safety information.

Sources

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We write every page in our own words from manufacturer guidance and check it against the sources above. If your manual says something different, follow your manual. How we check.