What Bosch E11 error means on your dishwasher
Error code E11 indicates that the NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor — the temperature sensor inside the dishwasher — is returning readings outside the expected range. The control board monitors this sensor continuously during operation. When the sensor reports an open circuit, short circuit, or values that don’t correspond to any realistic temperature, E11 is triggered. If you encounter the bosch e11 error, professional Bosch dishwasher repair may be needed.
Symptoms
- The dishwasher stops mid-cycle and displays E11
- Water may not heat at all (the board won’t activate the heater without reliable temperature data)
- Cycles may run indefinitely if the board waits for a temperature that’s never reported
- Error appears consistently, not intermittently
Common causes
- Failed thermistor — the NTC sensor itself has failed. These sensors degrade over time and with thermal cycling
- Corroded wiring — moisture exposure can corrode the sensor’s wiring connections, causing intermittent or open circuit readings
- Loose connector — the sensor plug on the main board or at the sensor itself has come loose
- Control board input fault — the analog input circuit on the control board that reads the sensor has failed (less common)
See all Bosch dishwasher error codes for related fault codes and diagnostic steps.
Troubleshooting steps you can try
- Power reset — turn off the breaker for 5 minutes. A one-time sensor glitch can sometimes be cleared this way.
- Locate the tech sheet — check inside the door panel for the technical data sheet, which lists the expected resistance values for the NTC sensor at various temperatures.
- Test with a multimeter — if you have access to the sensor, measure its resistance. At room temperature (25°C / 77°F), a typical Bosch NTC sensor reads approximately 5–6 kΩ. An open circuit (infinite resistance) or zero ohms confirms failure.
- Check Bosch support — visit Bosch’s official dishwasher support page for model-specific troubleshooting guides and tech notes.
When to call a technician
If the sensor tests outside normal range, it needs replacement. On newer models, the NTC is integrated into the heat pump assembly and requires partial disassembly to access. On older models, it’s mounted on the sump or near the heating element. The sensor itself is inexpensive but labor is the main cost. Codes may vary by model generation and series. Schedule a certified Bosch technician for fast, reliable diagnosis and repair.
