Bosch · Washing Machine · Door Lock Fault

Bosch Washing Machine Error E16

Bosch washing machine error E16 usually indicates a door or locking fault. ECL records this code as “Door is not locked properly”. The exact cause can vary by model and appliance generation. Start with the safe external checks below, confirm model-specific guidance using your exact model number, and arrange repair help if the code returns or any safety warning applies.

Quick answer: Door is not locked properly

In simple terms

Bosch washing machine code E16 usually means Door is not locked properly. Follow these four steps.

1Understand the code

See what the code usually means and why it may have appeared.

2Try safe checks

Try only the simple checks listed on this page. Do not take the appliance apart.

3Check if it is safe to use

Check the safety section before you keep using the appliance.

4Choose the next step

Use the next-step box to see whether to keep checking, find a part by model or get repair help.

What Bosch E16 means

Bosch washing machine error E16 indicates that the appliance has not confirmed that the door is properly closed and locked. Bosch also uses F16 for the same door-open or door-lock condition on some models. The code does not by itself prove that the door lock has failed: laundry trapped between the door and housing, an overloaded drum, or the door not being fully closed can prevent the locking system from engaging.

Common causes

  • Laundry trapped between the door and the washing machine housing
  • The drum is overloaded, preventing the door from closing fully
  • The door has not been pushed fully closed
  • A door catch or locking mechanism that is not engaging correctly

Safe checks you can make

  1. Open the door and check that no clothing, socks, or other items are trapped between the door and the housing.
  2. If the drum is tightly loaded, remove some items so the door can close without pressure from the laundry.
  3. Close the door firmly and make sure it sits correctly against the appliance before starting the programme again.
  4. If E16 remains after the door has been checked, switch the washing machine off and on once, select the programme again, and retry.
  5. If the code continues to return, record the Bosch E-Nr from the appliance rating label before arranging support.

Repair help

Try the safe checks first

Start with the simple checks on this page. If the code comes back, stop guessing and get repair help.

Still showing? Get repair help

No obligation. Your contact details are only shared after you submit the repair request, and only with a suitable ECL Verified repairer where coverage is available.

Is it safe to keep using the appliance?

If trapped laundry or overloading is corrected and E16 clears normally, the appliance can usually be used again. If the door will not latch correctly or E16 repeatedly returns, do not force the door or repeatedly restart the machine; arrange professional diagnosis.

When to stop and call an engineer

Arrange professional service if E16 remains after trapped laundry and overloading have been ruled out and the door has been closed correctly. Bosch advises repair when the door-lock problem remains after the basic external checks.

Your model may be different

Bosch may display E16 or F16 for this condition depending on the model and market. Check the appliance E-Nr and user manual before relying on model-specific instructions.

Where this information comes from

Publisher: Error Code Lookup Editorial Team. This page is independent information written in our own words and reviewed with safety boundaries in mind.

Manufacturer information: Bosch UK User Manuals. Use the exact model number to verify model-specific wording and instructions.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-31

How Error Code Lookup researches and verifies pages · Report a correction or provide model-specific evidence

Frequently asked questions

What does E16 mean on a Bosch washing machine?

Bosch washing machine error E16 indicates that the appliance has not confirmed that the door is properly closed and locked. Bosch also uses F16 for the same door-open or door-lock condition on some models. The code does not by itself prove that the door lock has failed: laundry trapped between the door and housing, an overloaded drum, or the door not being fully closed can prevent the locking system from engaging.

What usually causes Bosch error E16?

Common causes include Laundry trapped between the door and the washing machine housing; The drum is overloaded, preventing the door from closing fully; The door has not been pushed fully closed; A door catch or locking mechanism that is not engaging correctly.

Can I safely fix E16 myself?

Some basic external checks may be safe to try first. Stop if there are leaks, burning smells, overheating, electrical issues, unusual noises or repeated failures.

When should I call a professional for E16?

Arrange professional service if E16 remains after trapped laundry and overloading have been ruled out and the door has been closed correctly. Bosch advises repair when the door-lock problem remains after the basic external checks.

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