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BOSCH E:10

Bosch Washing Machine Error E:10: Intelligent Dosing System (i-DOS) Pump Blocked

Clear meaning, realistic next steps, and safe guidance without turning the page into a long repair manual.

What it means

The pump for the automatic detergent dosing system (i-DOS) is blocked and cannot dispense detergent or softener. Appears on models with i-DOS feature.

Severity

Medium - some user checks may help, but repeated faults often need service.

Can you fix it yourself?

Partial — start with DIY steps

Most likely cause

Dried or crystallized detergent blocking the dosing pump tube

Estimated time for safe first checks: 15–30 min.

Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide

  1. SAFETY: Put the machine into standby mode (hold Power button until display turns off).
  2. Remove the i-DOS detergent cartridge from the drawer.
  3. Run warm water through the dosing channel inlet to dissolve any crystallized detergent.
  4. Use a soft brush to clean the cartridge connector and channel opening.
  5. Reinstall the cartridge, power the machine back on, and run a test cycle.
  6. If the error reappears, temporarily deactivate the i-DOS system manually — refer to your owner's manual for the deactivation procedure.
  7. If E10 persists after cleaning and deactivation, call Bosch Customer Support.

If the warning comes back after restart

  • If the door closes normally but the warning keeps returning, the latch or switch path becomes more likely than a simple alignment issue.
  • If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
  • If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.

What This Error Means

E:10 on your Bosch washing machine means: The pump for the automatic detergent dosing system (i-DOS) is blocked and cannot dispense detergent or softener. Appears on models with i-DOS feature. The machine detects this condition via its sensors and stops the current cycle to prevent further damage. The error will remain until the underlying cause is resolved.

The most frequent cause is dried or crystallized detergent blocking the dosing pump tube. Work through the causes listed below in order — the first cause is the most likely and the most straightforward to check.

Many cases of E:10 can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting. Follow the steps below — if the error persists after all steps, a technician will be needed. The guide below specifies clearly at which point to escalate.

The most visible symptom is standing water in the drum at the end of a cycle. Do not run another cycle until the blockage is cleared — standing water stresses the door seal and pump motor.

Most Likely Cause by Symptom

The Bosch washing machine may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.

Likely cause: Dried or crystallized detergent blocking the dosing pump tube

Check first: SAFETY: Put the machine into standby mode (hold Power button until display turns off).

The appliance may fail to start because the door or lock state cannot be confirmed.

Likely cause: Scale buildup inside the dosing channel

Check first: Remove the i-DOS detergent cartridge from the drawer.

The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.

Likely cause: Using incompatible detergent in the i-DOS cartridge

Check first: Run warm water through the dosing channel inlet to dissolve any crystallized detergent.

Common Causes

  • Dried or crystallized detergent blocking the dosing pump tube
  • Scale buildup inside the dosing channel
  • Using incompatible detergent in the i-DOS cartridge

What Not to Do

  • Do not use non-compatible detergents in the i-DOS system — they crystallize and block the pump

Model and Display Variation Notes

Model-family notes

  • Bosch washing machine display wording and code formats can vary by series.
  • If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.

Display and panel differences

  • Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.

Parts, Tools and Service Options

Common parts

  • i-DOS dosing pump unit ($40–$90)

Manual and model check

Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Bosch washing machine parts.

Service option

Bosch service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.

Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.

When Not to Keep Troubleshooting

Error persists after thorough cleaning of dosing channels

  • i-DOS system cannot be manually deactivated to bypass the fault

How to Prevent It Recurring

  • Use only Bosch-compatible i-DOS detergent cartridges
  • Run a cleaning cycle monthly to prevent crystallization in dosing channels

Related Error Codes

Extra notes

  • This page is based on Bosch support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
  • The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.

Source and model notes

Last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Based on: Based on Bosch support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.

View Bosch US Official

Model coverage note: Bosch washing machine code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.

Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.

Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.