What E16 actually means
The machine thinks the door isn't shut, so it won't start or carry on with the wash.
E16 (shown as E80-31 on newer Bosch machines) means the control board has not had confirmation that the door is closed and locked. Until it gets that signal it won't fill or turn the drum, because it can't risk running with an open door. Sometimes the door genuinely isn't latched; other times it is shut fine and the fault is in the lock or its sensor.
What usually causes it
- Door not pushed firmly enough to click shut
- Washing or a stray sock trapped in the door seal, holding it a fraction open
- Faulty door interlock or door switch not reporting 'closed'
- Door hook or catch worn, bent or sticking
- Control module fault (less common)
What you can safely check yourself
Work through these in order. Anything beyond this — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the machine plugged in.
- Open the door fully and close it again with a firm push until you hear it click
- Run a hand round the rubber seal and the frame to clear any trapped clothing
- Check the load isn't overfilled and pressing against the door
- Look at the metal catch on the door to see if it's obviously bent or loose — don't try to bend it back
- Turn the machine off at the wall for a minute, then switch back on and restart the programme
When to call someone
This sometimes clears with the checks above. If it comes back, it needs looking at properly. We cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire, and it's £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it — £84 in total if it's repaired on the visit with no parts needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Outside our area? The explanation above still stands — take it to a local engineer and tell them the code. Knowing it saves them time and you money.
Other Bosch washing machine codes
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