Category: Refrigerator

Error Code: E21 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Communication error between the display control module and the ice and water dispenser control module.

How to Fix E21 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet to ensure your safety.
2. Attempt a system reset by leaving the refrigerator unplugged for 10-15 minutes to allow the internal electronics to discharge, then plug it back in. If the error persists, proceed to the next step.
3. Access the display control module, which is typically located behind the main user interface on the exterior of the refrigerator door. This may require carefully prying off a plastic cover or removing a few screws.
4. Locate the ice and water dispenser control module, usually found inside the dispenser housing itself. You will likely need to remove the dispenser drip tray and front panel to access it.
5. Carefully inspect the wiring harness that connects the display module to the dispenser module. Look for any pinched, frayed, or disconnected wires. Securely reconnect any loose plugs you find.
6. If the wiring appears intact, one of the control modules has likely failed. It is recommended to replace the dispenser control module first. Disconnect the wire connectors from the old module, remove it from its mounting, and install the new one in its place.
7. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.

Browse all Bosch error codes: Bosch Error Codes

Error Code: + BUTTON IS LIT Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: The temperature inside the refrigerator is rising.

How to Fix + BUTTON IS LIT Error (Step-by-Step)

1. First, check if the refrigerator door is fully closed and that nothing is blocking it from sealing properly.
2. Carefully inspect the rubber door seal for any cracks, tears, or gaps. Clean the seal with warm, soapy water to remove any debris that might be preventing a tight seal.
3. Feel around the edge of the door for any cold air escaping. If you feel a draft, the seal may need to be replaced.
4. Check for any frost buildup inside the refrigerator or freezer, as this can indicate a sealing issue.
5. Ensure the refrigerator is level. If it tilts forward, the door may not close on its own.
6. If the light remains on after these checks, the issue could be a faulty temperature sensor or control board, which requires professional service.
7. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E10 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Main control board module is defective.

How to Fix E10 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from its power source to ensure safety.
2. Locate the main control board housing on the back of the unit and remove its protective cover.
3. Before disconnecting anything, take a clear picture of the board and all its wire connections to use as a guide.
4. Methodically disconnect each wire harness from the old control board. Most have locking tabs that need to be pressed.
5. Remove the screws or release the clips holding the old board in place and carefully lift it out.
6. Install the new main control board, ensuring it is securely mounted. Refer to your photo to reconnect all wire harnesses to their correct ports.
7. Replace the cover panel, restore power to the refrigerator, and allow several minutes for the new board to initialize.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E08 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Evaporator fan failure.

How to Fix E08 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet and empty the freezer compartment completely.
2. Remove all freezer shelves, bins, and the icemaker assembly (if present) to gain access to the back panel.
3. Unscrew and carefully remove the interior rear panel of the freezer. You may need to gently pry it loose as it can be frozen in place.
4. The evaporator fan is now visible. Disconnect the electrical wire harness attached to the fan motor.
5. Remove the screws that mount the fan and motor assembly to the freezer wall.
6. Mount the new evaporator fan assembly, reconnect the wire harness, and ensure the fan blades can spin freely.
7. Reinstall the freezer’s rear panel, shelves, and icemaker, then restore power to the refrigerator.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E05 Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: Ice maker sensor failure.

How to Fix E05 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from its power supply and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
2. Turn off the water supply to the ice maker and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
3. Remove the ice bin to gain access to the ice maker assembly.
4. The ice maker sensor is part of the ice maker module. You may need to remove the ice maker to access it.
5. Disconnect the wire harness connected to the ice maker and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
6. Locate and replace the faulty sensor within the ice maker assembly.
7. Reinstall the ice maker, reconnect the wiring, turn the water supply back on, and restore power to the refrigerator.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E07 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Condenser fan failure.

How to Fix E07 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Completely disconnect the refrigerator from the power source by unplugging it from the wall outlet.
2. Pull the refrigerator away from the wall to access the rear lower service panel.
3. Remove the screws holding the service panel in place and set it aside.
4. Locate the condenser fan, which is responsible for cooling the compressor. Take a photo of the wiring for reference.
5. Disconnect the fan’s wire harness and remove the mounting screws or clips holding the fan assembly.
6. Install the new condenser fan assembly, secure it with the mounting hardware, and reconnect the wire harness.
7. Replace the rear service panel, plug the refrigerator back in, and carefully slide it back into place.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E04 Difficulty: Hard

Problem: Freezer door is open.

How to Fix E04 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. First, ensure there are no items inside the freezer blocking the door from closing completely.
2. Inspect the freezer door gasket for any signs of damage, such as rips or warping, that could prevent a proper seal.
3. Clean the door gasket and the surface it touches on the refrigerator with a mild detergent to remove any dirt or stickiness.
4. Check the alignment of the freezer door. If it appears to be sagging, you may need to adjust the hinges.
5. Locate the door switch, which is usually a small plunger or magnetic switch along the door frame.
6. Press and release the door switch to see if the interior light turns on and off. If it doesn’t, the switch may be faulty and require replacement.
7. If the problem persists after these steps, it may indicate an issue with the door sensor or the main control board, which will require a professional service.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E03 Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: Temperature-controlled drawer temperature sensor is defective.

How to Fix E03 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. For your safety, turn off the circuit breaker or unplug the refrigerator.
2. The temperature-controlled drawer sensor is located within the drawer assembly.
3. Pull the drawer completely out of the refrigerator and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
4. Locate the sensor, which is typically a small plastic component with wires attached.
5. Disconnect the wiring from the old sensor and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
6. Remove the old sensor from its mounting clip or housing.
7. Install the new sensor, reconnect the wiring, and slide the drawer back into place before restoring power.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E02 Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: Freezer compartment temperature sensor is faulty.

How to Fix E02 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet to prevent electrical shock.
2. The freezer compartment temperature sensor is usually located on the back or side wall of the freezer interior.
3. You may need to remove the freezer shelves and the back panel to access the sensor.
4. Gently unplug the wire connector from the faulty sensor and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
5. Remove the screw or release the clip holding the sensor in place and take out the old sensor.
6. Position the new sensor and secure it with the original screw or clip.
7. Reconnect the wire harness, reattach the back panel, replace the shelves, and plug the refrigerator back in.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts

Error Code: E01 Difficulty: Moderate

Problem: Refrigerator compartment temperature sensor is faulty.

How to Fix E01 Error (Step-by-Step)

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the power source for safety and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
2. Locate the refrigerator compartment temperature sensor. It is typically found on the interior side wall or ceiling.
3. Carefully remove any shelves or drawers that may be obstructing access to the sensor.
4. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the old sensor and confirm the error stays cleared during a full test cycle.
5. Remove the old sensor. It may be held in place by a clip or a screw.
6. Install the new temperature sensor, ensuring it is securely in place.
7. Reconnect the wire harness, replace any shelves or drawers, and restore power to the refrigerator.
8. Turn the appliance off, wait about 2 minutes, then turn it back on.

Next Steps and Parts