If your Bosch dryer isn’t heating, won’t start, or isn’t drying clothes properly, a few common issues are usually to blame. Many Bosch dryer problems are caused by airflow restrictions, sensor issues, or simple electrical faults. This Bosch dryer troubleshooting guide covers the most common symptoms, what causes them, and how to fix the problem safely.
Bosch Dryer Not Starting
When a Bosch dryer won’t turn on, the issue is often electrical or safety-related. Possible causes include:
Power Supply Issues
- Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse- check the electrical panel and reset the breaker. Check to see if it is partially “tripped.” Details below
Door not fully closed or faulty door switch
- The door latch may fail to engage if it doesn’t align with the door. Make sure there isn’t any loose clothing keeping the door from closing.
Control Panel or Start Switch Failure
- If you have any visible damage to the top of the appliance, your control panel may be damaged. This could happen while moving the appliance. Contact a technician.
Child Lock is Engaged
- Child Lock Is Engaged – Some Bosch dryers come with a child lock feature to prevent children from operating the machine. The buttons will not work until the child lock is disengaged.
To activate and deactivate the child lock function on your Bosch dryer, hold and press the “PROGRAM DURATION” and “READY IN” buttons simultaneously for three seconds. The procedure may differ for specific models, so it’s best to consult your owner’s manual.
Dryer Has a Blown Thermal Fuse
For safety reasons, dryers have a thermal fuse that cuts off power when it detects overheating. The fuse prevents fires or further damage to the dryer when it gets too hot. A blown fuse can either cut power to the entire machine or just the motor that makes the dryer spin.
How To Fix?
- Locate the thermal fuse. It is usually at the back near the heating element. Check the owner’s manual if you have trouble finding it.
- Check the fuse for continuity. If the fuse is busted, You’ll need to replace it.
- Replacing the fuse will get your dryer to start again, but you need to determine why the fuse blew in the first place.
- If the problem persists after cleaning your filters and declogging your ducts, have an electrician check for any shorted wires.
Bosch Dryer Not Heating
A Bosch dryer that runs but produces no heat usually has a heating, power supply or airflow issue. Common causes:
Failed Heating Element
If your dryer’s heating element is faulty, the air in the drum will not get hot enough to dry your clothes efficiently. The heating element can shut down due to a clogged vent or some other internal fault.
The heating element of Bosch dryers is located at the back with a red reset button towards the bottom of the back panel. Always make sure to switch the dryer off before working on your dryer to prevent an electric shock.
How To Fix?
- Reset the heating element by pressing the red button. You’ll hear a click that signifies the reset is successful, and the heating element should start working again.
- Bear in mind that getting the heating element to work doesn’t address why it overheated in the first place. You should inspect the filters and vent tubing to see if dirt or lint is causing the heating element to overheat.
- If the reset doesn’t work, you may need to replace the heating element. You should be able to see the part number of the heating element on the dryer or in the owner’s manual.
To replace the heating element, follow the instructions below:
- Switch the dryer off and let it cool down.
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Use a torque head screwdriver to remove the screws and back panel.
- Unscrew the two screws on the top of the heat element assembly and the other screw that holds the connectors of the wiring in place.
- Unplug the wire connectors and secure them so they don’t fall into the rear panel of the dryer.
- The heating element is free and can now be replaced.
The YouTube video below demonstrates how to replace the heating element:
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Power supply issue
If your Bosch dryer is tumbling, but not heating up, you may have an incoming power problem. Electric dryers require 240V to operate. This voltage comes in the form of two 120V AC legs.
In older panel boxes, it is not uncommon for only one breaker or fuse to trip, which results in the dryer being able to turn on and tumble without heat. Examine the dryer breaker to see if half of the double-pole breaker is tripped. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell visually. To be sure, turn it all the way OFF and then back ON.
If you are comfortable with a multi-meter, you can test the voltage at the dryer wall outlet. To diagnose electrical problems, it is best to contact a certified electrician.
Airflow Issue: Clogged lint filter or exhaust vent
Restricted airflow is one of the most common reasons Bosch dryers stop heating properly.
Follow the directions below to clear a blocked vent hose and clean the filter.
Bosch Dryer Not Drying Clothes Completely
If clothes come out damp after a full cycle, the dryer may not be circulating air efficiently. You may also have a faulty moisture sensor or be overloading the dryer.
Blocked Vent Hose
If hot air gets trapped in the dryer, the heat can trip the thermal fuse or shut the heating element down. A clogged air duct will hold heat in and should be cleaned once a year. Contact a vent cleaning service, if necessary.
To clean the vent tube on your Bosch dyer, follow the instructions below:
- Switch the dryer off and let it cool down.
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Remove the air duct by loosening the clamp.
- Clean the exhaust duct with a brush or vacuum cleaner.
- Reinstall the air duct, being careful not to bend the tube.
Moisture sensor coated with residue
All Bosch dryers have a stainless steel moisture sensor. This sensor is easy to find, as it’s found around the door area. It’s best to use a sponge to clean the sensor. A coarse sponge is recommended, as it’s most likely to remove dirt from the sensor quickly and easily.
Additionally, it’s important to note that you should never use steel wool or abrasives when cleaning the sensor, as this can cause damage.
Overloading the dryer
Your Bosch dryer has a maximum load capacity for each program. Prevent overloading by making sure the weight of your dry clothes does not exceed the maximum load capacity.
Ideally, you shouldn’t fill the dryer more than halfway to allow clothes to spin freely during the drying cycle. When a dryer is overloaded, the clothes are packed in too tightly, making it difficult for air to circulate while the dryer spins.
The Clothes Are Too Wet
Clothes should be spun damp dry by the washing machine before placing them in the dryer. If the washing machine isn’t spinning adequately, the clothes may be too wet for the dryer to dry them off completely.
Bosch Dryer Shuts Off Too Soon
If your dryer shuts off too early, it is usually linked to overheating or sensor problems.
Poor Ventilation Causing Overheating
Dryers have filters that keep the lint from reaching the vent tube. However, it doesn’t trap all the lint, and over time, the filters can accumulate enough lint to keep hot air from being exhausted outside the dryer drum.
Like clogged vent tubes, dirty filters can cause the heating element to shut down or the thermal fuse to blow.
Faulty Moisture Sensor Readings
Modern tumble dryers have a moisture sensor that detects when clothes are dry. When the sensor detects no more moisture, it shuts off the dryer to preserve energy. A dirty moisture sensor can give false readings, causing the dryer to shut off in the middle of a cycle. See above for how to clean.
How To Clean Bosch Dryer Vent
For optimal airflow and performance , clean the filter after every cycle. Clean the filter by following these steps:
- Open the dryer door and remove any lint or dirt surrounding the filter compartment.
- Remove the filter by pulling it up.
- Remove any dirt trapped in the recess of the filter.
- Make sure no dirt falls into the open shaft.
- Open the filter to remove big chunks of dirt or lint.
- Rinse the filter using running water.
- Blow or air dry the filter.
- Reinsert the filter into the compartment.
Bosch Dryer Error Codes and Meanings
Bosch dryer error codes are designed to alert you to heating, airflow, sensor, and electrical problems, helping you diagnose issues before they lead to major repairs.
| Error Code | Meaning | Common Cause | What to Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| E01 | Heating error | Heating element or wiring issue | Check power supply; service usually required |
| E02 | Overheating detected | Restricted airflow or clogged vent | Clean lint filter and exhaust vent |
| E03 | Temperature sensor fault | Failed thermistor | Sensor replacement recommended |
| E04 | Moisture sensor error | Dirty or faulty sensor | Clean sensor bars with vinegar or alcohol |
| E05 | Control board communication error | Control module failure | Reset dryer; replace board if error returns |
| E06 | Motor or belt problem | Motor overload or broken belt | Inspect belt; technician repair advised |
| E07 | Door lock or switch error | Door not closing properly | Check latch and door switch |
| E08 | Power supply issue | Voltage imbalance or wiring fault | Check breaker and outlet |
Bosch Dryer Start Button Flashing
If the Bosch dryer start button is flashing, the dryer is usually detecting a problem that prevents it from starting safely. In some cases, the dryer may simply need to be reset, but a blinking start button can also indicate an internal fault that requires professional diagnosis.
Common causes include overloading the dryer, restricted airflow, or the door not closing properly. Airflow problems are especially common and often trigger safety sensors that stop the dryer from running. Check the lint filter, exhaust vent, and drum load, and make sure nothing is blocking the door. A broken or slipped belt can also cause the start button to flash, since the dryer cannot rotate the drum properly. If the light continues blinking after these checks, a failed internal component may be the cause.
Bosch Dryer Troubleshooting FAQs
Why is my Bosch dryer not heating?
A Bosch dryer may stop heating due to a clogged vent, faulty heating element, blown thermal fuse, or defective temperature sensor. Airflow issues are the most common cause and should be checked first.
What does a Bosch dryer error code mean?
Bosch dryer error codes indicate specific problems such as overheating, sensor failures, power supply issues, or control board faults. Referencing the error code helps narrow down the cause and determine whether professional repair is needed.
How do I reset a Bosch dryer?
To reset a Bosch dryer, turn it off, unplug it or switch off the circuit breaker for one to five minutes, then restore power and restart the dryer. If an error code returns, the underlying issue likely still exists.
Why does my Bosch dryer shut off mid-cycle?
Dryers often shut off mid-cycle when they overheat or detect incorrect moisture readings. Blocked vents, dirty moisture sensors, or failing thermostats are common reasons.
Is it safe to keep using a Bosch dryer showing an error code?
No. Continuing to use a Bosch dryer with an active error code can damage internal components and create a safety risk. Address the cause before operating the dryer again.
When should I call a technician for my Bosch dryer?
Call a professional if the dryer continues to fail after basic troubleshooting. If the display error codes won’t reset after fixing the problem, you might also want to contact an expert. Finally, if the dryer has electrical, control board, or heating element issues, it might be beyond your skill set. Early repair can prevent more costly damage.
