Dishwasher
E16
The E16 error code on an AEG dishwasher indicates a fault with the door lock or door latch mechanism — the machine cannot confirm the door is properly closed and locked, so it refuses to start. It’s a common fault and often fixable at home without a callout.
What does this error mean?
Your AEG dishwasher’s control board monitors a door lock sensor (also called a door latch switch) to confirm the door is fully closed before allowing a cycle to run. When it detects that the signal from this switch is absent or incorrect, it throws the E16 code and halts operation. This is a safety feature to prevent the machine from running with an open or improperly sealed door.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair; £15–£35 DIY door latch part, or £10–£20 for a hinge spring
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: turn the dishwasher off at the mains, wait 60 seconds, then power it back on. A one-off software glitch can trigger E16, and a hard reset clears it.
Inspect the door latch and catch: open and firmly close the door, listening for a clear click. If it feels loose, spongy, or doesn’t click, examine the plastic latch hook on the door and the catch plate on the cabinet for cracks or wear.
Clear any obstructions: check the door seal (gasket) all the way around for trapped food debris, a folded seal, or anything physically stopping the door from closing flush. Clean the latch recess with a damp cloth.
Check door alignment: open the door fully and look at both hinges. If the door drops noticeably on one side or doesn’t sit level when closed, a hinge spring may have snapped. Replacement hinge springs cost around £10–£20 and are a DIY job on most AEG models.
Replace the door latch assembly: if the latch is visibly broken or the microswitch is faulty (test with a multimeter — it should show continuity when the latch is engaged), order a replacement latch for your specific AEG model number (found inside the door frame). Replacement parts cost £15–£35 and fitting requires removing the inner door panel — straightforward but take photos before you unplug any connectors.
If all the above check out and E16 persists, the fault likely lies with the wiring harness or control board — stop here and call a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
Call an engineer if the door latch and hinges look physically sound but E16 keeps returning after a reset — this points to a wiring or PCB fault that requires diagnostic tools to pinpoint safely. When you call, tell them you have an AEG dishwasher showing error code E16 and that you’ve already checked the door latch, alignment, and performed a hard reset. A good engineer will bring common AEG door latch parts with them to keep the job to one visit.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for E16 — covering diagnosis, parts, and labour — typically costs £80–£150 in the UK. If your AEG dishwasher is under 7 years old, repair is almost always the right call. For machines over 10 years old, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range dishwasher at £350–£600; if the engineer suspects further wear elsewhere, replacement makes more financial sense.