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Appliance Fix Guide

Bosch Washer error code

Bosch Washer Error E31

Drain pump is blocked or has timed out.

Drain pump is blocked or has timed out.

Updated Aug 18, 2026
informationalno_parts
Bosch washer repair guide for error E31
Error codeE31Washer

Try these first

Start here before buying a part or taking the appliance apart.

  1. 1
    Check 1

    Check for Over-sudsing: Excessive foam can cause this error. Reduce the amount of detergent used.

  2. 2
    Check 2

    Inspect Drain Pump: Check the drain pump and filter for any blockages.

  3. 3
    Check 3

    Check for Leaks: Inspect the base of the machine for any water, which could indicate an overflow.

A quick explanation

What does E31 mean?

Drain pump is blocked or has timed out.

The answer you came for

How to fix Bosch washer error E31

Start with the safest checks and work from simple to technical.

  1. 1

    Step 1

    1. Disconnect the washer from both the power outlet and the water supply. Safety is the first priority. Have a bucket and towels ready as there will be residual water.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    2. Locate the drain pump. On most Bosch front-loading washers, it's behind the small service panel at the bottom front of the machine. You may need a flathead screwdriver or a coin to twist the lock and open the panel.

  3. 3

    Step 3

    3. Prepare to drain the remaining water. Place a shallow pan and towels under the pump access. Slowly unscrew the large circular pump cap counter-clockwise. Water will start to flow out. Control the flow by tightening the cap slightly if needed until all water is drained.

  4. 4

    Step 4

    4. Once drained, fully remove the pump cap. Inspect the inside of the pump housing and the impeller for any foreign objects like coins, lint, buttons, or other debris. Carefully remove any blockages you find.

  5. 5

    Step 5

    5. If the pump is clear of obstructions but the error persists, the pump motor itself has likely failed. To replace it, disconnect the wire harness attached to the pump. Note the orientation of the pump, then unclip or unscrew it from its housing. It may require a firm twist to release.

  6. 6

    Step 6

    6. Install the new drain pump by aligning it correctly and securing it in place, reattaching the mounting screws or clips. Reconnect the wire harness securely to the terminals on the new pump.

  7. 7

    Step 7

    7. Re-install the pump cap, ensuring it is screwed on tightly to prevent leaks. Close the service panel, reconnect the power and water supply, and run a drain or spin cycle to test the new pump's operation.

Read the additional checks from the current guide

How to Fix E31 Error (Step-by-Step) Disconnect the washer from both the power outlet and the water supply. Safety is the first priority. Have a bucket and towels ready as there will be residual water.Locate the drain pump. On most Bosch front-loading washers, it's behind the small service panel at the bottom front of the machine. You may need a flathead screwdriver or a coin to twist the lock and open the panel.Prepare to drain the remaining water. Place a shallow pan and towels under the pump access. Slowly unscrew the large circular pump cap counter-clockwise. Water will start to flow out. Control the flow by tightening the cap slightly if needed until all water is drained.Once drained, fully remove the pump cap. Inspect the inside of the pump housing and the impeller for any foreign objects like coins, lint, buttons, or other debris. Carefully remove any blockages you find.If the pump is clear of obstructions but the error persists, the pump motor itself has likely failed. To replace it, disconnect the wire harness attached to the pump. Note the orientation of the pump, then unclip or unscrew it from its housing. It may require a firm twist to release.Install the new drain pump by aligning it correctly and securing it in place, reattaching the mounting screws or clips. Reconnect the wire harness securely to the terminals on the new pump.Re-install the pump cap, ensuring it is screwed on tightly to prevent leaks. Close the service panel, reconnect the power and water supply, and run a drain or spin cycle to test the new pump's operation.Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

What to Check Next on This Bosch Washer Bosch Washer Error E31: Use the code or symbol as the starting clue, then confirm the actual symptom before ordering parts. Unplug the washer before touching wiring, the lock, the pump area, or the control panel. Check the door lock, drain filter, inlet supply, and visible harness connections before replacing controls. If the code returns during the same part of the cycle, match the repair path to that stage: fill, wash, drain, spin, lock, or control response. If the issue returns after these checks, match replacement parts to the complete Bosch model number from the appliance tag. The same code can point to different components depending on the exact model and when the failure appears. Parts Availability Note: For this Electrolux/Frigidaire error code, exact OEM part numbers can vary by model revision and serial range. We’ve listed the most likely component(s), but confirm compatibility using your full model number before ordering. If no exact SKU is shown, use this guide for diagnosis first, then verify the matching OEM part on RepairClinic or PartSelect. Recommended Parts to Check No exact official OEM part number is listed here because the correct Bosch washer part can vary by complete model number. These are targeted part-category searches, not universal fit claims. Bosch washer electronic control board Common replacement category: Main control board Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch washer model number. Confirm compatibility before buying. Confidence: MediumThis category can be relevant for control and communication faults after wiring and connector checks. Search Amazon for Bosch washer electronic control board Bosch washer user interface control panel Common replacement category: User interface / display board Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch washer model number. Confirm compatibility before buying. Confidence: MediumThis category can be relevant for display, button, selector, or cycle-control faults. Search Amazon for Bosch washer user interface control panel Bosch washer drain pump assembly Common replacement category: Drain pump Fit note: Exact OEM part number varies by full Bosch washer model number. Confirm compatibility before buying. Confidence: MediumThis category can be relevant for drain, no-spin, and water-removal symptoms after filter and hose checks. Search Amazon for Bosch washer drain pump assembly Before ordering: match the part to the complete Bosch washer model number on the appliance tag. Still Not Working? If the replacement part didn't fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.

If the code comes back

Do not keep replacing parts based only on the code. Repeat the safe checks above. If the fault remains, stop and arrange qualified service rather than ordering from the code alone.

What may be causing it?

  • Water level too high (overflow)
  • Excessive sudsing
  • Blocked drain pump or filter
  • Faulty drain pump

These are possibilities to investigate, not proof that one part has failed.

Recommended part

Recommended part for this error code

Replacement part

OEM candidate: 00436440

Price noted in the current guide: $50-$150

Why this part is shown: It is associated with Bosch Washer error E31 in the current guide. The error code alone does not prove this part has failed.

Compatibility varies by model. Confirm that the Amazon listing includes your complete washer model number before ordering.

Amazon part link View recommended part on Amazon

You can open the recommendation now. Check model compatibility on the Amazon page before purchasing.

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Replacement options

Ready to replace your washer?

If repairing this washer no longer feels worthwhile, compare three replacement paths below.

Why shop your replacement on Amazon?

  • Fast, free delivery

    Prime members can get fast, free delivery on eligible items.

  • Convenient delivery options

    Select large appliances may offer scheduled or Room of Choice delivery.

  • Haul-away options

    Haul-away may be available for select appliances and delivery areas.

  • Installation help

    Installation or assembly may be available on select items.

Delivery and service options, fees, and availability vary by item, seller, and delivery ZIP code. Confirm available services at Amazon checkout.

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Make the money decision

Repair or replace calculator

Use the age and total repair estimate to get a simple comparison. This is guidance, not a guarantee.

Safety first

Disconnect power before opening panels or touching internal parts.

When to stop
  • Stop if you see burned wiring, melted connectors, water near electrical parts, or a gas smell.
  • Do not perform live-voltage testing unless you are trained and equipped for it.
  • Use the exact model manual or service information before replacing electronic controls.

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