Bosch · Dishwasher
Bosch Dishwasher E02 Error Code
Main control board relay fault
What this error means
E02 reports a main control board relay fault—the power module relay that switches heater, pump, or valve circuits failed self-test or welded shut. Random cycle aborts or failure to start are common with E02.
How E02 is detected
When E02 appears on a Bosch dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Bosch SHPM65Z55N, Bosch SHEM63W55N, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most E02 calls are resolved without parts: turn off breaker thirty seconds and restore power once. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If E02 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Relay failure after repeated E12 overheating from limescale
- Power spike on the kitchen circuit during multi-appliance use
- Moisture on the power module after prior E15 flooding
- Manufacturing defect in early production power modules
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Turn off breaker thirty seconds and restore power once
- 2Avoid running the dishwasher alongside high-draw appliances on the same circuit
- 3Note which cycle phase triggers E02—fill, wash, or dry—for service calls
- 4Do not attempt board replacement without Bosch programming tools
When to call a technician
Recurring E02 after a single reset requires power module replacement by a Bosch-authorized technician.
Affected models
- Bosch SHPM65Z55N
- Bosch SHEM63W55N
- Bosch SHX878ZD5N
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent E02 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when E02 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Bosch dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for E02; Bosch uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting E02; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.