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Error code reference

Bosch Range Error Code ER3

Electric cooktop MTwisT control selection of keys fault.

Electric cooktop MTwisT control selection of keys fault.

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What ER3 means on a Bosch range

The ER3 error code on a Bosch range with an electric cooktop MTwisT system indicates a fault in the control key selection process. The MTwisT system is Bosch's touch and rotary control interface for electric cooktops, which combines capacitive touch sensing with physical input elements. When ER3 appears, the control module has detected an anomaly in how one or more keys or input zones are being registered, suggesting the selection circuitry is not functioning within expected parameters.

This type of fault typically points to a problem within the cooktop control panel or the electronic control board that manages key inputs. Possible triggers include a stuck or continuously activated touch zone, moisture or residue on the control surface interfering with capacitive sensing, or an internal failure of the control board itself. Because the MTwisT interface relies on precise capacitive readings to distinguish between different user inputs, even minor contamination or component degradation can cause the system to log a key selection fault.

Faults like ER3 can sometimes be intermittent, appearing under specific conditions such as humidity or after spills near the control panel. In other cases the fault is persistent, indicating a hardware failure in the control board or the panel overlay. Technicians should inspect the control surface for contamination or physical damage before moving on to component-level diagnosis of the electronic control board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of ER3

  1. 01

    Contamination on the control panel surface

    Wiring / connection

    Spills, grease, or moisture on the MTwisT control surface can confuse the capacitive touch sensors and trigger a key selection fault. Cleaning the surface thoroughly with a dry cloth and ensuring no liquid remains near the controls is the first step.

  2. 02

    Stuck or continuously activated control key

    Wiring / connection

    A touch zone or physical key that is mechanically stuck or persistently activated will cause the control module to log an ER3 fault. Inspect each key area for physical damage or debris lodged beneath the control overlay.

  3. 03

    Faulty cooktop control board

    Part replacement

    If the key selection circuitry on the electronic control board has failed internally, the board will continuously report a fault regardless of the panel condition. This requires replacement of the control board.

  4. 04

    Damaged control panel overlay or keypad

    Part replacement

    Physical damage to the control panel overlay, such as cracking or delamination near the touch zones, can disrupt capacitive input readings and trigger ER3. Inspect the panel surface closely for visible damage.

  5. 05

    Loose or damaged wiring connections between panel and control board

    Wiring / connection

    Poor connections in the wiring harness linking the control panel to the main control board can cause intermittent or incorrect key signals. Check connectors for security and inspect ribbon cables or wire harnesses for damage.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about ER3

What does ER3 mean on a Bosch range?
ER3 on a Bosch range indicates a fault in the electric cooktop MTwisT control system's key selection process. The control module has detected that one or more touch or input zones are not registering correctly. This can be caused by contamination on the panel surface, a stuck key, or a failure within the control electronics.
Can I fix the ER3 error on my Bosch range myself?
In some cases, yes. Start by powering the range off at the breaker for a few minutes, then cleaning the control panel surface thoroughly to remove any moisture or residue. If the error returns after the cooktop is powered back on, the fault is likely hardware-related and a technician should inspect the control board and panel.
Will resetting my Bosch range clear the ER3 code?
A reset by cutting power at the breaker may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying cause such as contamination, a damaged panel, or a faulty control board is not addressed, the ER3 fault will return. A reset alone is not a fix but can help determine whether the issue is intermittent.
Is it safe to use my Bosch range while the ER3 code is showing?
It is generally not advisable to continue using the cooktop when ER3 is active, as the key selection fault means the controls may not respond reliably or accurately. Operating the appliance with a known control system fault could lead to unintended behavior. The range should be inspected and repaired before further use.
How much does it cost to repair an ER3 error on a Bosch range?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If the issue is resolved by cleaning the control surface, there is no parts cost. If the control panel overlay needs replacement, parts and labor typically range from $150 to $350. A full control board replacement can bring total repair costs to between $250 and $500 or more, depending on parts availability and local labor rates.

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