Siemens Washing Machine Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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If your Siemens washing machine is displaying an error code, this guide explains what the code usually means, the most common causes, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Note: Siemens error codes can vary slightly by model and series, but the explanations below apply to most modern Siemens front-load washing machines.

Common Siemens Washing Machine Error Codes

E16 / F16 — Door Lock Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not closed properly or the lock is not engaging.

Try this

  1. Re-close the door firmly until it clicks.
  2. Remove any laundry caught in the door seal.
  3. Power off for 2 minutes and retry.

Call service if

  • The door will not lock at all.

E17 / F17 — Water Inlet Error

What it usually means

  • Water is entering the machine too slowly or not at all.

Try this

  1. Make sure the water tap is fully open.
  2. Check inlet hoses for kinks or twists.
  3. Clean the inlet hose filter screens.
  4. Confirm household water pressure is normal.

Call service if

  • The washer does not fill after these checks.

E18 / F18 — Drain Error

What it usually means

  • Water is not draining within the expected time.

Try this

  1. Clean the drain pump filter.
  2. Check the drain hose for blockages or kinks.
  3. Ensure the sink trap or standpipe is clear.

Call service if

  • The pump runs but water remains in the drum.

E23 — Leak Detected

What it usually means

  • Water has collected in the base of the machine.

Try this

  1. Turn off power and water supply.
  2. Check for visible leaks around the door seal or hoses.
  3. Allow the machine to dry for 24 hours before restarting.

Call service if

  • E23 returns shortly after restart.

E29 — Water Flow Error

What it usually means

  • Insufficient water flow during filling.

Try this

  1. Check inlet hose filters.
  2. Ensure the tap is fully open.
  3. Test water pressure at the sink.

Call service if

  • The error persists with normal water pressure.

E32 — Foam / Water Level Error

What it usually means

  • Excessive foam or incorrect water level detected.

Try this

  1. Reduce detergent amount.
  2. Run a rinse cycle without detergent.
  3. Use only HE-rated detergent.

Call service if

  • The error returns despite correct detergent use.

E67 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • A fault with the electronic control module.

Try this

  1. Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and test a short cycle.

Call service if

  • E67 reappears (control board diagnosis required).

How to Clear a Siemens Washing Machine Error Code

  1. Turn the washing machine off.
  2. Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and start a short test cycle.

If the error returns immediately, it usually indicates an active fault.

When to Call Service

  • Repeated inlet or drain errors
  • Leak detection or water in the base
  • Control board or electronic faults
  • Burning smells, tripped breakers, or visible leaks

FAQ

Are Siemens and Bosch error codes the same?

Some are similar, but Siemens uses brand-specific coding and firmware.

Can detergent cause Siemens error codes?

Yes. Excess detergent can cause foam and water-level related errors.

Is it safe to keep resetting the washer?

No. Repeated resets without fixing the cause can worsen the underlying issue.