mypros+
Error code reference

Bosch Dryer Error Code E:13

Maximum drying time exceeded

Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the E:13 error code actually means

Your Bosch dryer is showing E:13 because it ran for too long without fully drying the load, which triggered a safety shutoff. This usually means the dryer is not producing enough heat, or the load was too large or too wet for a single cycle. Try reducing the load size and checking that your washer is fully spinning clothes before you transfer them to the dryer.

Diagnostic procedure

The full E:13 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check heating circuit and bimetal switch, replace damaged parts; reduce laundry load or select adequate program.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock E:13 procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of E:13

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Overloaded or excessively wet laundry
  2. 2Bimetal thermal switch tripped or failed
  3. 3Faulty heating element
  4. 4Heater control circuit damage
  5. 5Incorrect program selection

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about E:13

What does E:13 mean on a Bosch dryer?
E:13 means the dryer exceeded its maximum allowable drying time without completing the cycle. This fault is triggered when the control board determines the load has not reached the target dryness level within the time limit. The cause can be a damaged heating element, a failed bimetal thermal switch, a faulty heater control circuit, or a load that is too large or too wet for a single cycle.
Will resetting the dryer clear the E:13 code?
Resetting the dryer may clear the fault code temporarily, but if an underlying component failure is causing the error, the code will return once the dryer runs another cycle and again fails to heat properly. A reset is a reasonable first step, but you should also inspect the heating circuit and reduce the load size to address the root cause before running another full cycle.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch dryer showing E:13?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If only program selection or load size is the issue, there is no parts cost. Replacing a bimetal thermal switch is typically one of the lower-cost repairs, often ranging from $20 to $80 for the part. A heating element replacement generally runs in the $30 to $120 range for parts. If the heater control circuitry on the main control board is damaged, board replacement can cost $100 to $300 or more. Adding professional labor will increase these estimates.
Can I fix the E:13 error myself without replacing parts?
Yes, in some cases. If the fault was caused by an oversized or overly wet load, you can resolve it by reducing the drum load, ensuring your washing machine completes a full spin cycle before transferring clothes, and selecting the correct drying program. If the issue is a component failure such as a tripped bimetal switch, a damaged heater, or faulty heater control, those parts will need to be inspected and replaced by someone comfortable working with appliance electrical systems.
Is it safe to use my Bosch dryer when E:13 is displayed?
The E:13 code indicates the dryer has already shut down as a protective measure, so it will not continue operating in a normal cycle with the fault active. You should not attempt to bypass this safety feature. If the bimetal switch has tripped due to overheating, operating the dryer before diagnosing the cause of that overheating could create a fire hazard. Address the fault before resuming normal use.

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass