Bosch · Dryer Moderate

E11 — Overheating / Restricted Airflow

E11 is not in Bosch's official US dryer error-code list (which only documents E01/E02 as a pair, E06, and an E08/E09/E24/E25/E28/E90 electronics group). The 'overheating / restricted airflow' explanation below is not confirmed on Bosch's US consumer page — verify against your model's manual. (Note: on Bosch dishwashers and ovens, E11 has an official but different meaning — touch-key/condensation fault — so do not assume that meaning carries over to dryers.)

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Verified against
bosch-home.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Open the dryer door and locate the two metal sensor strips on the front bulkhead (just below the door opening) or inside the drum.
  2. Wipe the strips thoroughly with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or vinegar to remove softener residue.
  3. Inspect strips for visible erosion — replace the sensor assembly if worn through.
  4. If cleaning doesn't restore function, unplug the dryer and remove the front panel to access the sensor harness.
  5. Reseat the connector at the sensor and verify wiring continuity.
  6. Test sensor by shorting the two strips with a wet finger — control should detect moisture.
  7. Replace sensor assembly if testing fails after cleaning.
  8. Reassemble and run an auto-dry cycle to verify.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Auto-dry cycles stop too early or run too long · Clothes come out damp or over-dried · E11 displayed at end of cycle · Sensor-dry mode unavailable

  • Dryer sheet residue on sensor strips Fabric softener residue insulates the strips and prevents accurate readings.
  • Worn-through sensor strips After years of garment contact, the conductive strips erode.
  • Loose or broken wiring to sensor Connector behind the drum has worked loose.
  • Failed sensor input on control board Rare — board input damaged.

Parts you may need

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

  • Bosch dryer moisture sensor Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Bosch dryer codes

E01 E01 — Heating Circuit / Heater Relay Fault E02 E02 — Drive Motor Fault E03 E03 — Condenser / Lint Filter Blockage E04 E04 — Water Container Full E05 E05 — NTC Temperature Sensor Fault E06 E06 — Heating Circuit Fault

All Bosch codes → All dryer 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.