mypros+
Error code reference

Thermador Range Error Code Er:18

WFR 2460 washer

WFR 2460 washer: Calibration of pressure sensor not possible.

First step from the service manual

Start T/P 8 level test programme.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for Er:18.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What Er:18 means on a Thermador range

Er:18 on a Thermador range with the WFR 2460 washer indicates that the pressure sensor calibration process has failed or cannot be completed. The pressure sensor in this system monitors water levels within the wash compartment, and proper calibration is essential for the control board to accurately interpret sensor output and regulate water fill cycles. When the system attempts to run the calibration routine and cannot establish a valid baseline reading, it throws Er:18 to alert the technician that intervention is required before normal operation can resume.

The calibration failure can stem from several underlying issues. A blocked or kinked pressure hose connecting the tub to the sensor prevents accurate air pressure transmission, causing the sensor to read incorrectly or not at all. A faulty pressure sensor that has drifted out of its acceptable output range will also fail calibration. Additionally, water or moisture that has entered the pressure chamber or hose can corrupt the reference reading the control board uses to set the calibration baseline.

The prescribed first diagnostic step is to initiate the T/P 8 level test programme, which exercises the pressure sensor circuit under controlled conditions and allows the technician to observe sensor response across fill levels. This test isolates whether the issue is mechanical, such as a blocked hose or waterlogged chamber, or electronic, such as a defective sensor or a communication fault between the sensor and the main control board. Results from T/P 8 will guide the next steps in the repair sequence.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Er:18

  1. 01

    Blocked or kinked pressure hose

    Wiring / connection

    The hose connecting the wash tub to the pressure sensor can become kinked, pinched, or clogged with debris or mineral deposits, preventing accurate pressure transmission to the sensor. Inspect the full length of the hose for deformation or blockage and clear or replace it as needed.

  2. 02

    Water or moisture in the pressure chamber

    Wiring / connection

    If water has entered the pressure hose or sensor port, the air column that transmits pressure readings is disrupted, making calibration impossible. Disconnect the hose, drain any moisture, and allow the chamber to dry completely before retesting.

  3. 03

    Faulty pressure sensor

    Part replacement

    A pressure sensor that has failed or drifted outside its calibration range will produce readings the control board cannot use to establish a valid baseline. Running the T/P 8 test programme will help confirm whether the sensor output is out of specification, indicating replacement is necessary.

  4. 04

    Loose or corroded sensor wiring connections

    Wiring / connection

    Poor electrical contact at the pressure sensor connector or at the main control board can cause intermittent or missing sensor signals, which the system interprets as a calibration failure. Inspect connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or loose seating and reseat or clean them as needed.

  5. 05

    Main control board fault

    Part replacement

    If the control board cannot correctly process the signal from an otherwise functional pressure sensor, calibration will still fail. This is the least common cause and should only be considered after the sensor, hose, and wiring have been ruled out through diagnostic testing.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Er:18

What does Er:18 mean on a Thermador range?
Er:18 means the WFR 2460 wash system's pressure sensor could not complete its calibration process. The pressure sensor monitors water levels in the wash compartment, and when the control board cannot establish a valid calibration baseline from the sensor, it logs this code and halts operation. The issue can be mechanical, such as a blocked pressure hose, or electronic, such as a failed sensor or wiring fault.
How do I start diagnosing Er:18 on my Thermador range?
The correct first step is to run the T/P 8 level test programme, which exercises the pressure sensor circuit and reveals how the sensor is responding across different water levels. This test helps narrow the problem down to either the pressure hose and chamber, the sensor itself, or the control board. After reviewing the test results, inspect the pressure hose for kinks, blockages, or moisture before moving on to sensor or board testing.
Will resetting the range clear the Er:18 code?
A simple power reset will typically clear the displayed code temporarily, but Er:18 will return if the underlying calibration failure has not been resolved. Because the error is triggered during a calibration routine, the system will attempt calibration again on the next cycle and log the fault again if the root cause, such as a blocked hose or faulty sensor, is still present. A proper repair is required for the code to stay cleared.
Is it safe to use the range while Er:18 is active?
The Er:18 code indicates the wash system cannot reliably measure water levels, which means the appliance cannot safely regulate the water fill cycle in the WFR 2460 compartment. Continuing to operate the wash function with this fault active risks an uncontrolled fill condition. Basic cooking functions unrelated to the wash system may be unaffected, but the wash system should not be used until the fault is resolved.
How much does it cost to repair an Er:18 error on a Thermador range?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. If the fix involves clearing a blocked pressure hose or reseating a wiring connector, labor costs alone may range from roughly $100 to $200. If a new pressure sensor is required, parts and labor combined typically fall in the range of $150 to $400. A main control board replacement, if needed, is the most expensive scenario and can bring total costs to $400 to $800 or more depending on parts availability and technician rates.

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass