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Appliance Fix Guide

Bosch Washer error code

Bosch Washer Error E38

The pressure chamber is blocked and requires manual cleaning.

The pressure chamber is blocked and requires manual cleaning.

Updated Aug 18, 2026
informationalno_parts
Bosch washer repair guide for error E38
Error codeE38Washer

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

  1. 1
    Check 1

    Turn the washing machine off and on again to reset the control board.

  2. 2
    Check 2

    Avoid overloading the machine.

  3. 3
    Check 3

    If comfortable, unplug the machine and visually inspect wiring to the motor and control board for loose or burnt connections.

A quick explanation

What does E38 mean?

The pressure chamber is blocked and requires manual cleaning.

The answer you came for

How to fix Bosch washer error E38

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

  1. 1

    Step 1

    1. UNPLUG THE WASHER: Disconnect the washing machine from both the power outlet and the water supply lines to ensure safety.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    2. REMOVE THE TOP PANEL: Locate and remove the screws at the back of the washer that hold the top panel in place. Slide the panel back and lift it off.

  3. 3

    Step 3

    3. LOCATE THE PRESSURE CHAMBER: Look for a plastic component, usually near the bottom of the tub, with a thin black or clear hose attached to it. This is the pressure chamber system, which connects to the pressure sensor.

  4. 4

    Step 4

    4. DISCONNECT AND REMOVE THE CHAMBER: Use pliers to release the clamp holding the larger hose to the tub or drain pump. Squeeze the clamp and slide it down the hose. Carefully twist the hose and chamber to detach it. Disconnect the smaller tube leading to the pressure sensor.

  5. 5

    Step 5

    5. CLEAN THE PRESSURE CHAMBER THOROUGHLY: Take the chamber to a sink. Use a small bottle brush and hot, soapy water to scrub the inside, removing all lint, sludge, and blockages. Rinse it completely until water flows through freely.

  6. 6

    Step 6

    6. REINSTALL THE CHAMBER: Reattach the pressure chamber to the tub, ensuring the clamp is securely back in its original position. Reconnect the small hose to the pressure sensor, making sure it is fully seated.

  7. 7

    Step 7

    7. REASSEMBLE AND TEST: Replace the top panel and secure it with the screws. Reconnect the water and power supplies. Run a quick wash cycle to confirm the E38 error code is cleared.

Read the additional checks from the current guide

How to Fix E38 Error (Step-by-Step) UNPLUG THE WASHER: Disconnect the washing machine from both the power outlet and the water supply lines to ensure safety.REMOVE THE TOP PANEL: Locate and remove the screws at the back of the washer that hold the top panel in place. Slide the panel back and lift it off.LOCATE THE PRESSURE CHAMBER: Look for a plastic component, usually near the bottom of the tub, with a thin black or clear hose attached to it. This is the pressure chamber system, which connects to the pressure sensor.DISCONNECT AND REMOVE THE CHAMBER: Use pliers to release the clamp holding the larger hose to the tub or drain pump. Squeeze the clamp and slide it down the hose. Carefully twist the hose and chamber to detach it. Disconnect the smaller tube leading to the pressure sensor.CLEAN THE PRESSURE CHAMBER THOROUGHLY: Take the chamber to a sink. Use a small bottle brush and hot, soapy water to scrub the inside, removing all lint, sludge, and blockages. Rinse it completely until water flows through freely.REINSTALL THE CHAMBER: Reattach the pressure chamber to the tub, ensuring the clamp is securely back in its original position. Reconnect the small hose to the pressure sensor, making sure it is fully seated.Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

What to Check Next on This Bosch Washer Bosch Washer Error E38: 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?

  • Overloading the washer
  • Loose or damaged wiring
  • Faulty motor control board

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

Recommended part

Recommended part for this error code

Replacement part

OEM candidate: 00675654

Price noted in the current guide: $70-$110

Why this part is shown: It is associated with Bosch Washer error E38 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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