Code: E18🧺 Bosch Washer

Bosch Washer E18 (F18, E:18) Error Code: Water Not Draining (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)

Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Based on 5 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Bosch US lists E18 or F18 as "the drainage hose is blocked or kinked," and its E18 help page adds that the code appears when the washer detects a blockage in the pump. Bosch's Kuwait support page puts it plainly: E18 means there is no drainage of water, and you may see water still sitting in the drum. That page also says some Bosch models show the same fault as F18 or d02. On washers with a two-part display, Bosch US lists E:00 alternating with -18 as "the pump is blocked (obstructed)." The Bosch Use and Care manual 9001359936 lists E:18 with two causes: too much detergent or non-HE detergent, and a blocked pump. Check your own owner's manual, because Bosch code lists differ between model families.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Turn the washer to OFF and pull the power plug. Bosch warns the water inside may be very hot after a hot wash, so let it cool first.
  2. Turn off the water supply so no more water can flow in, as Bosch's Kuwait support page advises.
  3. Check that the drain hose runs without kinks. Loosen the hose clip at the drain (siphon), carefully remove the hose and let any water out, then clean the hose and the siphon spigot.
  4. Open and remove the service flap at the bottom front. Pull out the small emergency drain hose, remove its cap and let the water run into a shallow pan or towel. Put the cap back on firmly.
  5. Slowly unscrew the pump cover (more water may come out), then clean the inside, the cover thread and the pump housing. The pump impeller must be able to turn.
  6. Screw the pump cover back on firmly (Bosch says the grip should end up vertical) and close the service flap.
  7. Pour about 1 quart (1 liter) of water into the detergent drawer, start the DRAIN program and check for leaks.
  8. If your model's manual lists detergent for E:18, use less detergent and only HE detergent on future loads.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • E18 comes back even though the hose is clear and the pump filter is clean. Bosch says the drain pump itself may be defective.
  • You can't get the pump cover off or the water out safely.
  • Water is leaking from the base or the washer shows a different code along with E18.
  • The washer is under warranty. Bosch Customer Support is at 1-800-944-2904.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Washer drain hose (check length and end fittings for your model)

Only if the existing hose is cracked, crushed or permanently kinked. Bosch's fix starts with cleaning the hose you have.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_DRAIN_HOSE]
⚙

Bosch washer drain pump (exact part for your model number)

Only if the washer still won't drain after the pump is cleaned and the impeller turns. Match the part to the model number on the door frame.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_DRAIN_PUMP]
⚙

HE laundry detergent

Bosch manual 9001359936 lists too much or non-HE detergent as one cause of E:18.

[affiliate link slot: AFFILIATE_SLOT_HE_DETERGENT]

Sources

  1. Bosch US: Bosch Washer Error Codes (E18 or F18 drainage hose blocked or kinked; E:00 / -18 pump blocked)
  2. Bosch US: E18 Washing Machine Error Code (drain hose and pump cleaning steps)
  3. Bosch Kuwait: Washing Machine E18 Error Code (no drainage, F18 and d02 equivalents, emergency draining, defective pump)
  4. Bosch Use and Care manual 9001359936 (E:18 too much or non-HE detergent, pump blocked)
  5. Bosch US: Why won't my Bosch washing machine drain?

Last reviewed 2026-10-22. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.