Dishwasher
E17
The E17 error code on an AEG dishwasher indicates a water temperature fault — specifically that the water is overheating or the temperature sensor is reading an abnormally high value. It’s a moderate fault that will stop your cycle from completing, but in most cases it’s fixable without a call-out.
What does this error mean?
The E17 code means your dishwasher’s control board has detected that the water temperature has exceeded safe operating limits, or the NTC (temperature sensor) is sending a faulty high reading. AEG dishwashers typically heat water to around 50–70°C depending on the programme, and the E17 triggers when the sensor reports temperatures well above this range. The machine locks out the heating element as a safety measure to prevent damage.
Est. repair cost
£10–£25 DIY (NTC sensor replacement); £80–£150 professional repair (sensor, element, or thermostat fault)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the dishwasher: Switch it off at the mains socket, wait 60 seconds, then switch back on and start a new cycle. A one-off glitch in the control board can trigger a false E17, and a hard reset often clears it.
Check for a hard water/limescale issue: Run a dishwasher cleaner tablet (such as Finish Machine Cleaner) on an empty hot cycle. Heavy limescale on the heating element can cause localised hotspots. If you’re in a hard water area, descale every 1–3 months.
Inspect and clean the filter assembly: A blocked filter can restrict water circulation, causing the heating element to overheat in standing water. Remove the filter at the bottom of the tub, rinse it under a tap, and scrub with a soft brush.
Check the NTC sensor resistance (if you own a multimeter): Disconnect power, access the sensor (usually located on the sump near the heating element), and test resistance. A healthy NTC sensor typically reads around 5,000–10,000 ohms at room temperature. An open circuit or zero reading confirms the sensor has failed and needs replacing — a DIY-friendly repair costing £10–£25 for the part.
Inspect visible wiring to the sensor and heating element: With the machine unplugged, check for any burnt, pinched, or disconnected wires near the sump. Reconnect any loose spade connectors. Do not open or dismantle the control board — if wiring looks burnt or damaged, stop and call a professional.
If the error persists after all the above steps, the heating element or control board is likely the root cause and will require professional diagnosis.
📞 When to call a professional
Call an appliance engineer if the E17 error returns immediately after a reset, if you find burnt wiring, or if replacing the NTC sensor does not resolve the fault. Tell the engineer the exact error code (E17), your model number (found on the door frame sticker), and that the fault relates to a high water temperature or temperature sensor reading. Expect the engineer to test the NTC sensor, heating element continuity, and thermostat in that order.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E17 fault typically costs £80–£150, covering diagnosis, parts (NTC sensor or heating element), and labour. If your AEG dishwasher is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it — AEG is a premium brand with good parts availability. If the machine is over 8–10 years old and the heating element or control board needs replacing, a new mid-range dishwasher at £350–£600 is likely the smarter long-term investment.