Bosch · Dryer
Bosch Dryer E16 Error Code
Door opened during an active cycle
What this error means
E16 is informational—the door switch opened while the dryer was running. Bosch stops the drum and heat as a safety measure. The code clears when you close the door and restart; it is not a hardware failure unless E16 appears without anyone opening the door.
How E16 is detected
When E16 appears on a Bosch dryer, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Bosch WTG86401UC, Bosch WQB245AXUC, 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 E16 calls are resolved without parts: close the door firmly at the center until the latch clicks. 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 E16 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
- User opened the door to add an item mid-cycle
- Door not fully latched after closing
- Weak door catch allowing vibration to break contact
- Failed door switch reading open when door is shut
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Close the door firmly at the center until the latch clicks
- 2Press Start to resume the interrupted program
- 3Enable child lock if children frequently open the door during cycles
- 4Inspect the door gasket for bulges that prevent full closure
When to call a technician
E16 without any door opening suggests a worn latch or switch—replace when the door visibly closes but E16 returns every start.
Affected models
- Bosch WTG86401UC
- Bosch WQB245AXUC
- Bosch WTG865H4UC
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dryers to prevent E16 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when E16 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Bosch dryer—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for E16; Bosch uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting E16; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.