Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E09: Meaning and Fix

E09
How E09 appears on a Bosch dishwasher display.
Bosch dishwasher heater part photo, the component usually involved when E09 (heating element / relay fault) appears
AppliancePartsPros.com product photo

Reading the dishwasher display

A dishwasher reports its fault in the display window, or by blinking a cycle light a set number of times with a pause between groups. Count the blinks and pauses before opening the door. Bosch shows the code with a leading E and a number on both dishwashers and washers.

Bosch (part of BSH Home Appliances) uses E-numbered codes on dishwashers and washers. Its dishwashers share control platforms with Thermador and Gaggenau, so the same fault can appear on those brands. The codes apply to model numbers such as SHPM65Z55N, SHE53T55UC and WAT28400UC; check the label on your unit to confirm yours.

What causes E09

How to fix it

  1. Switch the appliance off at the breaker and let it cool completely before working on it.
  2. Inspect the heater wiring and connectors for scorching, looseness or corrosion and reseat them.
  3. Test continuity of the heater terminals when the machine is cold and unplugged.
  4. Test the heating element and the temperature sensor for continuity/resistance with a multimeter against the values in your service sheet.
  5. Replace whichever component fails the test; never bypass a thermal fuse.
  6. Reassemble, restore power and run a hot cycle, checking that the water or air reaches temperature in a normal time.

Parts you may need

PartPart no.Buy
Dishwasher Heating Element00219639Find part

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Questions

What does error E09 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?

The heating circuit failed its self-check, so the program cannot continue. Exact behavior can vary by model and software version; confirm against your own manual.

Can I keep using my dishwasher while E09 is showing?

You can run cold or short cycles in a pinch, but results will be poor, and a heater that stays on is a safety concern, so repair it soon.

How do I clear E09, and can I fix it myself?

Cancel the program, switch the appliance off and leave it unplugged (or the breaker off) for about five minutes, then restart. The code only stays cleared if the underlying problem is fixed, so work through the steps above. Parts here involve electronics, heating or sealed components, so consider a qualified technician if the basic checks do not clear it.

Other Bosch dishwasher codes

Sources

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.

Applies to models including SHPM65Z55N, SHE53T55UC, SHX53TL5UC, SHEM63W55N.