Bosch Washer Error Code F:18

F:18 means the washer's drain cycle exceeded its maximum allowed time without successfully removing water from the drum. The control board monitors drain duration, and when water level does not drop within the expected window, the machine faults and stops. The cause can be a blocked pump, a clogged or kinked drain hose, a faulty pressure sensor, or a blocked pressure sensor hose.

A reset may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying cause is not corrected, F:18 will return during the next drain cycle. The machine will continue to fault until the blocked pump, hose, or failed component is repaired. Always address the root cause before relying on a reset.

Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Clearing a blocked pump filter or drain hose yourself costs nothing beyond your time. Replacing a drain pump motor typically runs between $80 and $200 for parts, with professional labor adding $100 to $250 on top of that. A pressure sensor replacement is generally less expensive in parts, usually in the $20 to $75 range, but labor costs still apply if a technician is needed.

Many F:18 causes are DIY-friendly. Clearing the pump filter, straightening a kinked drain hose, and cleaning the pressure sensor hose are all tasks a homeowner can perform with basic tools. If the pump motor or pressure sensor has failed electrically, replacement parts are needed and some comfort with appliance disassembly is required.

No, you should not continue running the washer while F:18 is active. The machine has detected a drain failure and stopped to prevent potential water overflow or motor damage from running dry. Resolve the drain issue before attempting another cycle.