How to Reset a Bosch Dishwasher (3 Methods)
Method 1: Soft reset (cancel current cycle)
Use this to cancel a running cycle or clear a minor fault without affecting saved settings.
- Press and hold the Start button (sometimes labelled Start/Reset) for 3–5 seconds.
- The display should show 0:01 or begin a short drain cycle (about 90 seconds).
- Wait for the drain cycle to complete before opening the door.
- The machine is now reset and ready for a new cycle.
On some models the button is labelled differently — look for a button with a circular arrow icon, or consult the door-edge label.
Method 2: Hard reset (power cycle)
Use this when the display is frozen, buttons are unresponsive, or a soft reset didn't clear the fault.
- Turn the dishwasher off using the on/off button.
- Switch off the circuit breaker for the dishwasher, or unplug it from the wall socket.
- Wait 5 full minutes. This allows capacitors to discharge and the control board to fully reset.
- Restore power and turn the dishwasher on.
- Run a short test cycle to confirm normal operation.
Method 3: Factory / programme reset
Resets all user-programmed settings (delay start, temperature preferences, extra-dry options) back to factory defaults. Useful after a control board firmware issue or after purchasing a second-hand machine.
- With the dishwasher off, hold the A and C programme buttons simultaneously.
- Still holding, press the On/Off button.
- Release all buttons. The display should cycle through a test sequence.
- Press On/Off to exit. All programmes are now restored to defaults.
Note: Button labelling varies by series. On older 300/500 series units the combination may differ — check your model's user manual if this doesn't work.
What error codes look like on a Bosch dishwasher
Bosch displays errors as alphanumeric codes beginning with E (e.g. E15, E22, E24). After a reset the code clears — but if the underlying fault persists the code will return within the next cycle.
Common Bosch dishwasher codes and what they mean:
- E15 — leak protection float activated (base tray has water)
- E22 — filter or drain blockage
- E24 — drain path restriction
- E25 — drain pump obstruction
Browse all Bosch error code guides.
When a reset won't help
A reset addresses software/control state — it won't fix a physical problem. If your Bosch dishwasher shows the same error code after every reset, the physical cause must be resolved first:
- E15 returning after reset — water is still in the base tray. Tilt the machine carefully to drain, then find the leak source.
- E24/E25 returning after reset — the drain is still physically blocked. Check the filter, pump, and hose.
- Display still blank after hard reset — possible control board failure requiring professional service.
Frequently asked questions
Will resetting a Bosch dishwasher delete my saved programmes?
A soft reset or power cycle will not affect saved programmes. A factory reset (Method 3) will restore all settings to defaults.
How do I know which Bosch series I have?
The model number is on a sticker on the door edge (visible when the door is open). Series 2, 4, 6, 8, and 100–800 all use similar reset methods, but button labelling varies.
The reset didn't work and my Bosch dishwasher won't start. What now?
Check the door latch is fully closed (a common cause of a non-starting machine), verify the water supply valve is open, and confirm the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If all those are fine, the control board may need professional inspection.
How often should I reset my Bosch dishwasher?
Only when needed — a transient error code appears, the display freezes, or behaviour becomes erratic. Frequent resets are a sign of an underlying fault that needs proper diagnosis.