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Error code reference

Bosch Dishwasher Error Code d:12

Motor control high current switch off

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What the d:12 error code actually means

Your Bosch dishwasher detected that the part responsible for circulating water was working too hard and automatically shut itself off to prevent damage. This usually means something is stuck in the pump, or the pump motor is wearing out. The dishwasher is protecting itself, but it will need attention before it runs normally again.

Diagnostic procedure

The full d:12 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Run test P:04; check for motor overload or binding condition.
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Most common causes of d:12

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Foreign object blocking the pump impeller
  2. 2Worn or seized wash motor bearings
  3. 3Failed wash motor with internal winding fault
  4. 4Clogged or restricted pump assembly
  5. 5Faulty motor control board

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Questions people ask about d:12

What does d:12 mean on a Bosch dishwasher?
Error code d:12 means the dishwasher's motor control system detected a high-current condition and shut the motor off to prevent damage. This indicates the wash motor is either overloaded or mechanically binding. The control board continuously monitors motor current and triggers this code when that current exceeds safe limits. Running diagnostic test P:04 is the recommended first step to reproduce and evaluate the fault.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher when d:12 appears?
You should not continue running the dishwasher while this error is active. The code indicates the motor was shut down as a protective measure, and repeated attempts to run the machine with an unresolved overload or binding condition can cause permanent damage to the motor or control board. Diagnose and resolve the underlying cause before resuming normal use.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch dishwasher d:12 error?
If the fault is caused by debris blocking the pump, the repair may cost nothing beyond your time. If the wash motor needs replacement, parts and labor typically range from $150 to $400 depending on your location and the specific motor required. A control board replacement, if that is ultimately the cause, can push costs higher, generally in the $200 to $500 range including labor.
Can I fix a d:12 error myself?
If the cause is a foreign object blocking the pump impeller, a DIY repair is often straightforward. Remove the lower spray arm and filter assembly to access the pump cavity and clear any debris. However, if the motor bearings are worn or the motor has an internal fault, motor replacement is typically required, which is a more involved repair that some owners prefer to leave to a technician.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the d:12 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the code and allow the dishwasher to attempt a new cycle, but if the underlying mechanical problem is still present, the d:12 error will return as soon as the motor binds or overloads again. A reset is not a fix. The root cause, whether debris, a worn motor, or another obstruction, must be addressed for the error to stay cleared.

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