Dishwasher
E6
The E6 error code on a Bosch dishwasher points to a fault with the water flow sensor or circulation system — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your machine completing a cycle, but in many cases it’s something you can resolve yourself.
What does this error mean?
E6 indicates that the dishwasher’s control board is detecting an issue with water flow through the circulation pump circuit. Specifically, the machine isn’t sensing the correct water pressure or flow during the wash phase. This could be a blockage, a failed sensor, or a faulty circulation pump — the dishwasher shuts down to prevent running dry and damaging internal components.
Est. repair cost
£80–£180 professional repair (pump or sensor replacement); £20–£50 DIY part if you’re replacing a flow sensor yourself
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine first: switch it off at the mains, wait 60 seconds, then power it back on and run a short cycle. A temporary sensor glitch will clear with a reset.
Clean the filter: remove the cylindrical filter and mesh screen at the base of the wash cabinet, rinse under a running tap, and scrub with a soft brush to clear all food debris.
Check and clear the spray arms: unclip both the lower and upper spray arms, run a cocktail stick or toothpick through every nozzle hole, and rinse thoroughly before refitting.
Inspect the drain hose at the back of the machine: pull the dishwasher forward slightly and check the hose isn’t kinked or squashed against the wall. Straighten if needed.
Run a hot descaling cycle: add a dishwasher descaler (e.g. Finish Dishwasher Cleaner or own-brand equivalent) and run the hottest programme available. This is especially effective in hard-water areas and can free a scaled flow sensor.
Check the float switch in the base tray: carefully tilt the machine slightly forward to see if water has pooled in the base, which can trigger flow-related faults. If there is standing water, mop it out, refit the machine level, and reset.
📞 When to call a professional
If the E6 error persists after completing all DIY steps above, the circulation pump or flow sensor is likely faulty and needs replacing — both involve accessing internal electrical components, so call an appliance engineer at that point. Tell them you have a Bosch dishwasher showing error code E6 and that you’ve already cleaned the filters, spray arms, and descaled the machine. This saves diagnostic time and money.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E6 fault — typically a circulation pump or flow sensor replacement — costs £80–£180 in the UK including parts and labour. If your dishwasher is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it. For machines over 8–10 years old, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range Bosch dishwasher at £400–£600; if the repair quote exceeds 50% of replacement cost, replacing is the smarter long-term decision.