Error code reference

Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E2

NTC thermistor error

Bosch codesBosch dishwasher codes

NTC thermistor error - indicates a fault with the NTC temperature sensor.

First step from the service manual

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The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What E2 means on a Bosch dishwasher

The E2 error code on a Bosch dishwasher indicates a fault detected in the NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistor circuit. The control board monitors resistance values from the NTC sensor throughout the wash cycle to regulate water temperature. E2 triggers when the resistance reading falls outside the expected range, either reading too high, too low, or returning no signal at all. At 72 degrees Fahrenheit, a functioning NTC sensor should measure approximately 55k ohms. Deviations from the expected resistance values on the NTC resistance chart cause the board to flag an error rather than risk overheating or an ineffective wash.

For homeowners, the NTC sensor is a small component that acts as a thermometer inside your dishwasher. It tells the machine how hot the water is so the control board can heat it to the correct temperature for washing and sanitizing. When this sensor fails or loses its connection, the dishwasher cannot safely regulate water temperature and stops the cycle to protect itself and your dishes. The fix usually involves testing the sensor with a multimeter, checking the wiring harness leading to the sensor, and replacing the NTC thermistor if it reads outside spec. In some cases the wiring connector or the control board itself is the root cause, but the sensor is the most common failure point.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E2

  1. 01

    Failed NTC thermistor (out-of-spec resistance)

    Part replacement

    The NTC sensor itself has drifted or failed, producing resistance values that do not match the expected NTC resistance chart. At 72 degrees Fahrenheit the sensor should read approximately 55k ohms, and a reading significantly above or below this indicates the sensor needs replacement.

  2. 02

    Damaged or disconnected wiring harness to NTC sensor

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring harness connecting the NTC thermistor to the control board can corrode, chafe, or pull loose from its connector, interrupting the resistance signal. This causes the control board to see an open circuit and trigger E2 even when the sensor itself is functional.

  3. 03

    Corroded or loose NTC connector pins

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture inside the dishwasher tub can reach the NTC connector and cause pin corrosion or intermittent contact. The control board receives an erratic or missing signal and throws E2, but cleaning or reseating the connector may resolve the fault without replacing parts.

  4. 04

    Faulty control board failing to read NTC signal

    Part replacement

    If the NTC sensor and wiring both test within specification, the control board input circuit responsible for reading the thermistor may have failed. This is the least common cause but should be evaluated after the sensor and wiring are confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E2

What does the E2 error code mean on a Bosch dishwasher?
E2 on a Bosch dishwasher means the control board has detected a problem with the NTC temperature sensor circuit. The NTC thermistor monitors water temperature throughout the wash cycle, and the board throws E2 when the sensor's resistance reading falls outside the expected range on the NTC resistance chart. A working sensor measures roughly 55k ohms at 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I fix the E2 error code on a Bosch dishwasher?
Start by unplugging the dishwasher and locating the NTC thermistor, which is typically mounted on the sump or heating element housing. Disconnect the sensor and measure its resistance with a multimeter, comparing the reading to the Bosch NTC resistance chart for the current temperature. If resistance is far from the expected 55k ohms at 72 degrees Fahrenheit, replace the NTC sensor. If the sensor tests good, inspect the wiring harness and connector for corrosion or damage before suspecting the control board.
Can I still use my Bosch dishwasher when it shows error code E2?
Running the dishwasher with an active E2 code is not recommended. Without a functioning NTC sensor, the control board cannot accurately regulate water temperature, which means water could fail to reach sanitizing temperatures or, depending on the failure mode, the heater could run unchecked. Most Bosch models will halt the cycle automatically when E2 appears, preventing normal operation until the fault is cleared.
How much does it cost to fix E2 on a Bosch dishwasher?
If the NTC thermistor is the cause, the part typically costs between $15 and $40 and is a manageable DIY repair requiring a multimeter and basic hand tools. A professional appliance technician will usually charge $100 to $200 in labor on top of the part cost. If the control board is the root cause, board replacement can run $150 to $300 for the part alone, making professional diagnosis worthwhile before purchasing components.
How do I test the NTC sensor on a Bosch dishwasher for an E2 error?
Disconnect power to the dishwasher, then locate the NTC thermistor on the sump assembly. Unplug the two-wire connector from the sensor and set a multimeter to the ohms setting. Touch the probes to the sensor terminals and note the resistance reading. At room temperature around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, a good Bosch NTC sensor reads approximately 55k ohms. Cross-reference the reading against the Bosch NTC resistance chart for accuracy at different temperatures. A reading of zero, infinite resistance, or a value well outside the chart range confirms a failed sensor.

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