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Error code reference

Bosch Washer Error Code E:21

Drain pump time exceeded

Bosch codesBosch washer codes

Drain pump time exceeded — faulty drain pump, wire harness, or hose.

First step from the service manual

Run test P15; check drain pump, wire harness, and drain hose.

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:21 means on a Bosch washer

Error code E:21 on a Bosch washer indicates that the drain pump exceeded its allowed operating time without successfully draining the drum. The control board monitors how long the drain pump runs during a drain cycle, and when water is not evacuated within the expected window, the machine halts and triggers this fault. The drain system includes the drain pump motor, the pump filter housing, the drain hose, and the wire harness connecting the pump to the control board.

The most common physical cause is a restriction somewhere in the drain path. A clogged pump filter, a kinked or obstructed drain hose, or a blocked pump impeller can all prevent water from evacuating at the required rate. The pump may be running but unable to move water effectively, causing the timer to expire. In some cases, the pump impeller becomes jammed by foreign objects such as coins, buttons, or debris that pass through the drum seal.

Electrical faults can also trigger E:21 even when the plumbing path is clear. A failing drain pump motor may draw insufficient current or stall intermittently, and damaged or corroded connections in the wire harness can interrupt the signal between the control board and the pump. Bosch recommends running diagnostic test P15 to evaluate drain pump operation directly, which helps isolate whether the fault is mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical in nature.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of E:21

  1. 01

    Clogged drain pump filter

    Wiring / connection

    Debris, lint, coins, or small objects accumulate in the pump filter and restrict water flow. The filter is typically located behind a small access panel at the front lower section of the machine and should be inspected and cleaned first.

  2. 02

    Kinked or blocked drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    The drain hose running from the pump to the standpipe or sink may be kinked, crushed, or clogged with residue. Inspect the full length of the hose and check that the standpipe height is within the installation specifications.

  3. 03

    Faulty drain pump motor

    Part replacement

    The pump motor may have failed mechanically or electrically, preventing it from spinning the impeller at adequate speed. Running diagnostic test P15 can confirm whether the pump is receiving power and responding correctly.

  4. 04

    Damaged or corroded wire harness

    Part replacement

    Wiring between the control board and the drain pump can develop breaks, loose connectors, or corrosion that interrupts pump operation. Inspect the harness for visible damage and check connector seating at both ends.

  5. 05

    Blocked pump impeller

    Wiring / connection

    A foreign object lodged in the pump impeller can prevent it from rotating even when the motor receives power. Accessing and manually clearing the impeller is necessary if the filter is clean but the pump still does not drain.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about E:21

What does E:21 mean on a Bosch washer?
E:21 means the drain pump ran longer than the allowed time without successfully draining the drum. The washer stops the cycle to prevent potential issues from standing water or pump overload. The fault points to the drain pump, the drain hose, or the wire harness connecting the pump to the control board. Bosch diagnostic test P15 is the recommended starting point for isolating the exact cause.
How do I fix error E:21 on my Bosch washer?
Start by cleaning the drain pump filter, which is the most common cause of this error and requires no tools or parts. Next, inspect the drain hose for kinks or blockages and confirm it is routed correctly. If the filter and hose are clear, run diagnostic test P15 to evaluate pump operation and check the wire harness for damaged connectors or broken wires. If the pump motor itself has failed, it will need to be replaced.
Is it safe to use my Bosch washer while error E:21 is active?
No, you should not continue running wash cycles while E:21 is present. If the washer cannot drain properly, water will remain in the drum, which can cause mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential leaks. Continued operation with a failing pump can also put additional strain on the motor and connected components. Resolve the drain issue before resuming normal use.
Will resetting my Bosch washer clear the E:21 error?
A reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but the fault will return as soon as the washer attempts another drain cycle if the underlying problem has not been fixed. Resetting without addressing the cause does not resolve the clog, hose issue, or pump failure triggering the code. The reset can be useful for confirming whether a one-time obstruction has been cleared after you have performed the physical inspection and cleaning.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch washer E:21 error?
If the fix is simply cleaning the pump filter or clearing a kinked hose, there is no parts cost and only your time is involved. If the drain pump motor needs replacement, parts typically range from 40 to 120 dollars depending on the model, with professional labor adding roughly 80 to 200 dollars on top of that. Wire harness repairs or replacements fall in a similar range. Getting a diagnostic from a certified technician before ordering parts is advisable if test P15 does not clearly identify the faulty component.

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