E18 means your Bosch washer isn’t draining at all. Unlike some fault codes, this one has a genuinely useful DIY check you can try before booking a technician.
Step 1: Locate the Drain Filter Access Panel
Most Bosch front-load washers have a small hinged panel at the bottom-front of the machine. Open it to reveal the drain filter cap.
Step 2: Prepare for Water
Place a shallow, towel-lined tray directly under the filter cap before opening it — there will typically be some residual water in the line.
Step 3: Slowly Open the Filter
Unscrew the filter cap slowly, allowing water to drain into your tray. Once fully open, remove the filter and check for coins, buttons, hair ties, or lint blocking it.
Step 4: Clean and Reinstall
Rinse the filter thoroughly, reinstall it, and make sure the cap is screwed back in fully to avoid a leak on the next cycle. Run a short rinse cycle to confirm drainage is restored.
If That Doesn’t Fix It
If water is still stuck after clearing the filter, the drain pump itself has likely failed, which requires a technician to access and replace. Visit our washer repair page to book a visit.
Not Confident Doing This Yourself?
A factory-trained technician can diagnose and fix it safely, usually same-day.