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Error code reference

Bosch Dryer Error Code F:04

Blocked fluff strainer, air cooler, air circuit, water passages or condensation tank; or ambient temperature above 30°C; or short-circuit/shunt in…

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What the F:04 error code actually means

Your Bosch dryer is showing F:04 because it detected a problem with airflow, moisture drainage, or how long it has been running. This usually means a filter or water passage is clogged and needs cleaning. In some cases, the room the dryer is in may be too hot, or there may be a sensor issue inside the machine.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F:04 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 air passages. Check and clean water passages. Ensure cooling air circulation is adequate. Start test programme for conductivity measurement.
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Most common causes of F:04

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Blocked fluff strainer or lint filter
  2. 2Blocked or full condensation tank and water passages
  3. 3Obstructed air cooler or heat exchanger
  4. 4Short-circuit or shunt in the conductivity sensor system
  5. 5Ambient temperature above 30 degrees Celsius

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Questions people ask about F:04

What does F:04 mean on a Bosch dryer?
F:04 indicates that the dryer has detected a problem in its airflow or water drainage system, a fault in the conductivity sensor circuit, an ambient temperature above 30 degrees Celsius, or that the machine has reached its 240-minute maximum runtime limit. The code is a protective shutdown to prevent overheating or inaccurate drying cycles. In most cases the root cause is a blocked lint filter, a full condensation tank, or a dirty heat exchanger.
Will resetting my Bosch dryer clear the F:04 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the F:04 display, but the code will return if the underlying cause has not been addressed. Always clean the air and water passages and confirm adequate room ventilation before attempting to restart the dryer. If the fault is caused by a shorted conductivity sensor or a wiring issue, a reset alone will not resolve it.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch dryer showing F:04?
If the fix is simply cleaning the lint filter, heat exchanger, or water passages, the cost is minimal and requires no parts. If a conductivity sensor or associated wiring needs replacement, parts and labour costs typically range from 80 to 200 dollars depending on your location and the specific components involved. A technician call-out fee alone can range from 50 to 100 dollars, so performing the basic cleaning steps first is advisable.
Can I fix F:04 on my Bosch dryer myself?
Many F:04 faults can be resolved without professional help. Start by cleaning the fluff strainer, emptying the condensation tank, and clearing any debris from the heat exchanger and water passages. If the error persists after these steps, the issue may involve the conductivity sensor circuit or an internal component, which would require a technician to run the conductivity test programme and inspect wiring.
Is it safe to keep using my dryer when F:04 is displayed?
You should not continue running the dryer while F:04 is active. The code indicates that the machine has shut down to protect against overheating or an unresolved system fault. Continuing to force operation without resolving the cause could damage internal components or create a fire hazard, particularly if airflow is severely restricted.

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