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Error code reference

Bosch Washer Error Code E:13

Flow meter gives wrong values

Bosch codesBosch washer codes

Flow meter gives wrong values — faulty flow meter or wire harness.

First step from the service manual

Run test P11; check flow meter and wire harness.

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

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  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
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What E:13 means on a Bosch washer

Error code E:13 on a Bosch washer indicates that the flow meter is returning incorrect or implausible values to the control board. The flow meter, also called a water flow sensor or turbine sensor, monitors the volume of water entering the machine during fill cycles. When the control board receives readings that fall outside expected parameters, it triggers E:13 and halts operation to prevent overfilling, underfilling, or damage to downstream components.

The two primary sources of this fault are a defective flow meter and a problem with the wire harness connecting the sensor to the control board. A faulty flow meter may have a stuck or degraded turbine impeller, a failed Hall effect sensor element, or internal corrosion from prolonged water exposure. Wire harness issues include broken conductors, corroded or loose connector pins, and chafed insulation causing intermittent shorts. Either condition can produce signal values the control board cannot interpret as valid.

Diagnosis begins with running test program P11, which exercises the flow meter circuit and allows the technician to observe live sensor output. During this test, inspect the wire harness along its entire routing from the flow meter to the main control board, checking connectors for corrosion, bent pins, and secure seating. If the harness checks out, the flow meter itself should be tested and replaced if it fails to produce consistent, expected output during the fill sequence.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E:13

  1. 01

    Faulty flow meter

    Part replacement

    The flow meter's internal turbine or Hall effect sensing element may have failed, causing it to send incorrect readings to the control board. Running test P11 will help confirm whether the sensor is producing valid output during the fill cycle.

  2. 02

    Damaged or corroded wire harness

    Wiring / connection

    The wire harness between the flow meter and control board may have broken conductors, corroded connector pins, or loose terminals that interrupt or distort the signal. Inspect the full harness routing and connectors for visible damage or corrosion.

  3. 03

    Loose or disconnected harness connector

    Wiring / connection

    A connector at either end of the flow meter circuit may have worked loose over time due to vibration, causing intermittent or absent signal. Pressing each connector firmly into its housing and re-running test P11 can confirm if this was the cause.

  4. 04

    Blocked or obstructed flow meter turbine

    Wiring / connection

    Debris from the water supply, such as mineral scale or sediment, can lodge in the flow meter and prevent the turbine from spinning freely, producing erratic or zero output. Inspecting and cleaning the flow meter inlet may resolve this without replacing the part.

  5. 05

    Main control board fault

    Part replacement

    If the flow meter and harness both test correctly during P11 diagnostics, the control board's input circuit for the flow meter signal may be the source of the misread values. Control board replacement is a last-resort diagnosis after all other components are confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E:13

What does E:13 mean on a Bosch washer?
E:13 means the control board is receiving incorrect values from the flow meter, the sensor that measures water entering the machine. The fault points to either a defective flow meter or a problem with the wire harness connecting it to the control board. The washer stops operation when this code appears to prevent potential water level errors.
Can I fix E:13 on my Bosch washer myself?
Some causes of E:13 are DIY-accessible, such as reseating loose harness connectors or cleaning debris from the flow meter turbine. However, diagnosing the fault properly requires running test program P11, which is a technician-level diagnostic mode. If the flow meter or wire harness needs replacement, a qualified technician is recommended for correct component identification and installation.
Is it safe to keep using my Bosch washer when E:13 is displayed?
It is not advisable to continue running the washer while E:13 is active. The flow meter monitors water volume during filling, and if it is malfunctioning, the machine could potentially overfill or underfill, leading to poor wash results or water damage. Stop using the appliance until the fault is diagnosed and resolved.
Will resetting my Bosch washer clear the E:13 error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the E:13 code, but if the underlying cause such as a faulty flow meter or damaged wire harness is still present, the error will return during the next fill cycle. A reset alone is not a repair. The root cause must be identified and corrected through proper diagnostics, starting with test P11.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch washer E:13 error?
Repair costs depend on what component is at fault. If only a harness connector needs reseating or cleaning, the cost may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. Replacing a flow meter generally adds $50 to $200 in parts cost depending on the model. If the control board is involved, total repair costs could range from $200 to $450 or more including labor.

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