Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Disconnect power at the wall outlet.
- Perform a power cycle: unplug for 60 seconds, then plug back in.
- Run a test cycle — if F13 returns, the inlet valve has failed and requires replacement.
- Contact Miele service — inlet valve replacement requires disconnecting the water supply and internal access.
If it's still not filling correctly
- If normal household water flow looks good but the code returns, the inlet-valve or fill-sensing path becomes more likely.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- F13 appears — inlet valve defects are not DIY-serviceable on Miele dishwashers
What This Error Means
Error F13 on your Miele dishwasher means: The dishwasher's water inlet valve has been identified as defective. The valve is not opening or closing correctly, preventing the dishwasher from filling normally. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and stopped or interrupted the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is inlet valve solenoid failure — the solenoid that opens the valve when energised has burned out. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — many Miele dishwasher errors can be resolved without a service call.
Miele classifies F13 as a technician-only fault. A power cycle is the only DIY step — if the code returns, contact Miele service.
Most fill errors trace back to the water supply tap under the sink — it is often partially closed after a plumber visit or dishwasher installation. Confirm the tap is fully open before investigating anything further.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Miele dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Inlet valve solenoid failure — the solenoid that opens the valve when energised has burned out
Check first: SAFETY: Disconnect power at the wall outlet.
Common Causes
- Inlet valve solenoid failure — the solenoid that opens the valve when energised has burned out
- Valve diaphragm failure — the rubber diaphragm inside the valve has worn out or cracked
What Not to Do
- Do not attempt to run the dishwasher with a defective inlet valve — the valve may fail in the open position and cause flooding
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Miele dishwasher 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
Service option
Miele service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Miele dishwasher parts.
Common parts
- Water inlet valve ($40-$100)
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
F13 appears — inlet valve defects are not DIY-serviceable on Miele dishwashers
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Have a service technician inspect the inlet valve if F12 errors occur frequently — partial valve failure often precedes complete failure
Related Error Codes
F12
The dishwasher failed to fill with water at the beginning of a program step. The machine did not detect sufficient water entering the tub within the expected time.
F18
The dishwasher's flow meter is reading zero or near-zero water flow when the machine expects water to be entering. The machine has stopped because it cannot confirm water is reaching the wash system.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Miele 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: 2026-04-09
Based on: Based on Miele support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Miele USA Official Support
Model coverage note: Miele dishwasher 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.