Bosch Dishwasher E:03: Power Module Running Too Hot

What E:03 means

E:03 may arrive with a warm smell near the plug, or with the machine shutting itself off. The power module has measured a temperature above Bosch's limit for it, and on this platform the usual culprit is the mains connection rather than the washing hardware. Bosch's service step: look over the power cord at both ends, and if either shows heat damage, renew the cord together with the module.

Common causes of E:03

Loose or corroded plug or outlet connection heating up (the first place a technician looks)
Power cord damaged or too light for the load
Power module overheating from an internal problem

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Turn the dishwasher off at the breaker first. 2. Look at the wall outlet and the plug for browning, a melted face or a burning smell. 3. If you see any of these, leave it unplugged and call an electrician or us. 4. Do not plug it back in just to test it; a connection hot enough to log this code needs expert eyes, not another cycle.

! Why to stop there

A connection that ran hot can keep heating after the error clears, which makes this a fire concern more than a wash-quality one.
Heat damage usually takes the module's terminal along with the cord, which is why Bosch replaces both.
The module's terminal block is where mains power enters the machine, so probing is only safe with the breaker off and verified dead.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

→Same appliance

Other Dishwasher codes

E:01Bosch Dishwasher E:01: Cycle Ended Early, Heater Relay or Pump Unconfirmed E:30Bosch Dishwasher E:30, Voltage Too High and the Machine Shut Down E:31Water in the Zeolite Container - Bosch Dishwasher E:31 FBosch Dishwasher F on an Older Display (Water Filling) 2HBosch Dishwasher 2H: Long Cycle Warning on Older Displays 1Bosch Dishwasher Service Test Result 1: Aqua Sensor 2Bosch Dishwasher Service Test Result 2: Heating Group 4Bosch Dishwasher Service Test Result 4: Water Filling

E:03E:03 questions

Is it dangerous to keep using the dishwasher with E:03?

It can be. An overheating connection is a fire risk, so stop using the machine, switch the breaker off, and have it inspected before the next cycle.

Will I need a new dishwasher?

Rarely. Fixing this means new parts, a cord and a power module, not a new appliance. We give you a written price before work, and the repair has a 30-day workmanship warranty.

Should an electrician look at my outlet?

If the outlet or plug shows heat marks, yes. We check the dishwasher side, and a licensed electrician should handle wiring in the wall.