Bosch Washing Machine: error code e13

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Bosch washing machine displays error code E13, it indicates a drainage issue, preventing water from leaving the drum. This can interrupt your wash cycle and leave water standing in the machine. Common causes include a clogged drain filter or a kinked drain hose, both of which can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Bosch Models

E13 on Bosch washing machines specifically refers to water drainage issues when water isnâ€™t evacuated within the allocated time.

Possible Causes

Clogged drain filter

How to Identify: Water remains in drum after cycle; visible debris in filter; E13 error appears routinely.

Part: Drain filter

Blocked or kinked drain hose

How to Identify: Hose bends/kinks at the back; water fails to flow freely when detached; E13 persists after filter cleaning.

Part: Drain hose

Faulty or jammed drain pump

How to Identify: Unusual noises during drain attempt; spinner not engaging; drains slowly or not at all after clearing visible blockages.

Part: Drain pump

Pressure switch or sensor malfunction

How to Identify: Incorrect water level readings; machine fails to initiate drain/pump operations even when unblocked; E13 persists after physical blockage removal.

Part: Pressure switch / level sensor

Control board failure

How to Identify: No response from machine after clearing blockages and verifying pump/sensor; intermittent or unexplained error persistence.

Part: Main control unit (electronic board)

DIY Solutions

Clean drain filter

Easy 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: towels, container for water

Turn off and unplug the washer.
Locate the drain filter access at the bottom front/back of the machine.
Place towels and container to catch water.
Remove and clean the filter of debris, lint, and objects.
Reinstall filter and run a test cycle.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before accessing internal filters.

Inspect and clear drain hose

Moderate 20-40 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, possibly a long flexible brush

Turn off and unplug the washer.
Detach the drain hose from the washer and drain outlet.
Check for kinks, bends, and blockages.
Flush the hose with water or use a flexible brush to clear debris.
Reattach the hose correctly (no sharp bends) and test.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hose is reconnected securely to prevent leaks.

Professional Repairs

Replace or repair drain pump

Estimated Cost: $70 - $200

Pressure switch or sensor replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Control board diagnosis/repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

After confirming filter and hose are clear and E13 persists

If drain pump is suspected to be faulty or making unusual noises

When pressure sensor or control board failure is suspected

Preventive Maintenance

Clean drain filter: Blockages leading to E13 error
Frequency: every 3-6 months
Inspect drain hose for kinks and debris: Drainage issues and E13 codes
Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Bosch Washing Machine error code e13?

Error code e13 indicates drainage problems, often due to a clogged filter or blocked hose.

How do I fix Bosch Washing Machine error code e13 myself?

Clean the drain filter and check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.

How much does it cost to fix error code e13?

Professional repairs can range from $70 to $400, depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for error code e13?

If DIY solutions don't work or if the pump or control board may need replacement, call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Clogged drain pump or filter
Faulty water inlet valve
Detergent residue buildup in the detergent drawer

User Suggested Solutions

Check and clean the drain pump and filter. Unplug the machine, locate the filter at the bottom front, and remove any debris. Run a rinse cycle to check for proper drainage.
Inspect and replace the water inlet valve if necessary. Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hoses, and test the valve with a multimeter for continuity. Replace if faulty.
Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or Affresh to eliminate detergent residue. Add the cleaner to the detergent drawer and run an empty cycle on the hottest setting.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

Bosch e13 error code

Community Discussions

e13 error code

Running a cleaning cycle with vinegar or Affresh to eliminate detergent residue.