Bosch · Dishwasher Serious

E03 — Water not heating

Per Bosch's official US error-code page, E03 is a main control board relay fault/error (Bosch uses the same wording for E02 and E03).

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Typical cost
$35-75
Verified against
bosch-home.com ↗

The fix

Water inlet valve

Water fill / inlet issue

$35-75 moderate difficulty 45 min Tools: screwdriver, adjustable wrench, towel

Diagnose first: Check household water supply first; if open, inlet valve solenoid is most common failure.

Find this part on Amazon →

Didn't resolve it? Next suspect: Inlet hose with safety valve (Aquastop) ($40-90)

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How to fix it

  1. Verify the hot water supply valve under the sink is fully open.
  2. Run hot water at the sink for 30 seconds before starting the dishwasher.
  3. Check incoming water temperature with a thermometer (target 120 deg F).
  4. Inspect the heater for visible scale buildup; descale with citric acid cycle.
  5. If heater resistance is high or NTC is drifted, replace those components.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Cool wash water · Cycle runs long then errors · Dishes greasy after cycle

  • Cold water supply only Hot supply valve closed, dishwasher cannot reach setpoint in time.
  • Heater partially failed Element degraded but not fully open.
  • Limescale on heater Insulation from mineral buildup slowing heat transfer.
  • Control thermistor drifted NTC reading high, ending heat cycle early.

Other parts sometimes needed

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Bosch dishwasher descaler Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Bosch dishwasher codes

All Bosch codes → All dishwasher codes →

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: bosch-home.com.