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Error code reference

Bosch Range Error Code E116

Meat probe error

Bosch codesBosch range codes

Meat probe error — hot wire shorted to ground or connection to probe changes from connected-to-disconnected multiple times; probe is disabled but oven continues to operate.

First step from the service manual

Check wires and connections; connector may be loose and shorted to cavity or other dead metal. Check for dirty contact within probe receptacle.

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

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What E116 means on a Bosch range

The E116 error code on a Bosch range indicates a fault within the meat probe circuit. Specifically, the control board has detected either a short circuit between the probe's hot wire and ground, or an intermittent connection where the probe's status repeatedly switches between connected and disconnected. The oven's control system monitors the probe circuit continuously, and when it detects these unstable or shorted conditions, it disables the probe to prevent inaccurate temperature readings while allowing the oven itself to continue operating normally.

The meat probe system relies on a thermistor inside the probe tip that changes resistance as the food temperature rises. The control board reads this resistance to determine internal food temperature. When the hot wire shorts to ground or the circuit becomes intermittent, the resistance readings become erratic or invalid, triggering E116. The most likely physical cause is a loose or corroded connector at the probe receptacle inside the oven cavity, where the probe plugs into the wall of the oven. If that connector shifts or makes poor contact, the board sees a rapidly changing circuit state.

Dirty or oxidized contacts inside the receptacle are another common culprit, as grease and moisture from cooking can accumulate in the receptacle and create a conductive path to the cavity wall or other grounded metal. Physical damage to the probe cable itself, such as a pinched or burnt section of wiring, can also create a direct short to ground. Begin diagnosis by inspecting the wiring and connections at the probe receptacle, checking for looseness, corrosion, debris, and any visible wire damage.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E116

  1. 01

    Loose or improperly seated probe connector

    Wiring / connection

    If the probe is not fully inserted into the receptacle, or if the receptacle itself has become loose from the oven cavity wall, the circuit can intermittently connect and disconnect, triggering E116. Inspect the receptacle for physical looseness and ensure the probe seats firmly.

  2. 02

    Dirty or contaminated probe receptacle contacts

    Wiring / connection

    Grease, food residue, and moisture can accumulate inside the probe receptacle and create a conductive path between the probe contacts and the grounded cavity wall. Clean the receptacle carefully with an appropriate contact cleaner and inspect for buildup.

  3. 03

    Damaged probe cable causing a short to ground

    Part replacement

    A section of the probe's wire that has been pinched by a rack, burned against the oven cavity, or otherwise physically compromised can allow the hot conductor to contact grounded metal directly. Inspect the full length of the probe cable for visible damage.

  4. 04

    Faulty meat probe thermistor or internal short

    Part replacement

    The thermistor inside the probe tip can fail internally, creating a short circuit within the probe itself rather than in the external wiring. If wiring and connections check out, substitute a known-good probe to confirm or rule out the probe as the source of the fault.

  5. 05

    Defective probe receptacle assembly

    Part replacement

    The receptacle mounted to the oven cavity wall can develop internal faults or corroded terminals that cause intermittent or shorted readings even when a good probe is connected. If cleaning and probe replacement do not resolve the error, the receptacle assembly may need replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E116

What does E116 mean on a Bosch range?
E116 indicates a meat probe circuit fault, specifically that the probe's hot wire has shorted to ground or the connection is cycling between connected and disconnected repeatedly. The control board disables the probe feature when this condition is detected but allows the oven to continue operating. The most common cause is a loose connector or dirty contacts at the probe receptacle inside the oven cavity.
Can I still use my oven when E116 is displayed?
Yes, the oven is designed to continue operating normally when E116 is active. The error only disables the meat probe function, so you can still bake, roast, and use other oven modes. However, the probe temperature monitoring feature will not work until the fault is resolved.
Will resetting the oven clear the E116 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the code, but it will return as soon as the control board detects the same shorted or intermittent probe circuit again. A lasting fix requires addressing the underlying cause, such as cleaning the receptacle contacts, reseating the connector, or replacing a damaged probe or receptacle assembly.
Is the E116 error on a Bosch range a safety concern?
The E116 error itself does not indicate a dangerous condition, and the oven remains operational with its normal safety systems active. The probe is disabled rather than allowed to provide inaccurate readings, which is the intended safe behavior. That said, a wire that has shorted to grounded metal should be inspected and corrected to prevent further damage to wiring or components.
How much does it cost to fix a Bosch range E116 error?
If the fix is as simple as cleaning the probe receptacle or reseating a loose connector, there may be no parts cost at all, though a service call from a technician typically runs in the range of $75 to $150 for diagnosis. Replacing a faulty meat probe generally costs between $30 and $80 for the part. If the receptacle assembly itself requires replacement, parts and labor combined can range from $100 to $250 depending on the specific model and local labor rates.

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