Tumble Dryer
F10
The F10 error code on a Bosch tumble dryer indicates a problem with the appliance’s temperature sensor or overheating protection circuit — it’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your dryer from completing a cycle, but in many cases you can resolve it yourself without calling an engineer.
What does this error mean?
F10 signals that the dryer’s NTC temperature sensor has detected an abnormal temperature reading — either the drum is overheating or the sensor itself is faulty and sending incorrect data to the control board. Bosch builds in this safety cut-out to prevent fire risk and component damage. Until the fault is cleared and normal temperature readings are restored, the machine will refuse to run.
Est. repair cost
£80–£150 professional repair (sensor or cutout replacement); £10–£25 DIY part cost if you are confident identifying and sourcing the correct NTC sensor for your exact Bosch model
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Switch the dryer off at the wall and unplug it. Leave it for 30 minutes to cool down completely before doing anything else — this also resets the thermal cut-out if it has temporarily tripped.
Remove and clean the lint filter thoroughly under a cold tap. Hold it up to the light — if you cannot see light through the mesh, it is still blocked. Let it dry fully before reinserting.
On condenser or heat pump models, locate the condenser unit (usually behind a panel at the bottom front of the machine). Remove it, rinse it under a cold tap until the water runs clear, and leave it to dry for at least 2 hours before replacing.
On vented models, check the exhaust hose at the back of the machine. Straighten any kinks, remove any blockages, and confirm the external vent flap opens freely when the dryer runs.
Plug the machine back in and run a short, low-heat cycle. If F10 clears and the dryer completes the cycle normally, the blockage was the cause — keep filters and condensers clean monthly.
If F10 returns after cleaning everything, do not attempt to open the machine to test or replace the NTC sensor or thermal cutout yourself — these steps involve accessing live electrical components and wiring. Call a qualified appliance repair engineer at this point.
📞 When to call a professional
If the F10 error persists after you have thoroughly cleaned the lint filter, condenser, and exhaust duct, stop there and call a qualified appliance repair engineer. Tell them: ‘My Bosch tumble dryer is showing an F10 fault code — I’ve cleaned all filters and the condenser but the error won’t clear, so I suspect a faulty NTC temperature sensor or thermal overload cutout.’ This saves diagnostic time and may reduce your call-out cost.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an NTC sensor or thermal cutout replacement typically costs £80–£150 including parts and labour in the UK. If your Bosch dryer is under 5 years old, repair is almost always the better value; if it’s over 8–10 years old and has had previous faults, a replacement machine — budget £350–£600 for a reliable new Bosch or equivalent — is often more economical in the long run. For a straightforward sensor swap on a relatively young machine, repair wins hands down.