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Error code reference

Bosch Washer Error Code Er:03

Door lock doesn't lock

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What the Er:03 error code actually means

Your washer's door lock is not engaging properly when a cycle starts, so the machine has stopped as a safety precaution. This could mean the lock mechanism is stuck or broken, or that a wire connecting the lock to the washer's control system is damaged or loose. The washer will not run until this issue is resolved, since it will not operate with an unsecured door.

Diagnostic procedure

The full Er:03 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check door lock mechanism and wire harness.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of Er:03

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Jammed or faulty door lock assembly
  2. 2Damaged or disconnected wire harness
  3. 3Misaligned door strike
  4. 4Worn or broken door hinge
  5. 5Control board not sending lock signal

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Questions people ask about Er:03

What does Er:03 mean on a Bosch washer?
Er:03 means the door lock failed to engage when the washer attempted to start a cycle. The control board sends a signal to lock the door and waits for confirmation that the lock has actuated. If that confirmation does not come back, the washer halts and displays Er:03. The most common causes are a jammed lock mechanism or a wiring problem in the door lock circuit.
Is it safe to use my washer when Er:03 is showing?
No. The washer intentionally prevents operation when Er:03 is active because the door lock must be confirmed as engaged before a wash cycle runs. Running a washer with an unsecured door creates a risk of the door opening during a cycle, which can cause water leakage and potential injury. The machine should not be used until the underlying fault is resolved.
How much does it cost to repair a Bosch washer showing Er:03?
Repair costs depend on what component is at fault. A replacement door lock assembly typically costs between $30 and $80 for the part alone, with professional labor adding $80 to $150 depending on your area. Wire harness repairs can be less expensive if only a connector needs reseating or a short section of wire needs repair. Control board replacement is the most expensive outcome, with parts alone ranging from $150 to $350 or more.
Can I fix Er:03 on my Bosch washer myself?
Some causes of Er:03 are DIY-friendly. Checking for obstructions around the door latch, verifying that all wire connectors are fully seated, and inspecting the door alignment for hinge issues are all tasks within reach of a careful DIYer. Replacing the door lock assembly is also straightforward on most Bosch models and requires only basic tools. Control board diagnosis and replacement are better left to a qualified technician.
Will resetting my Bosch washer clear the Er:03 code?
A reset may temporarily clear the code from the display, but Er:03 will return immediately when the washer attempts to lock the door again if the underlying problem has not been fixed. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, such as a loose connector, but it is not a permanent solution. The door lock mechanism and wiring must be inspected and repaired to resolve the error.

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