Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E14 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Bosch dishwasher error E14 means the flow sensor has stopped sending a signal to the control board. Unlike E04 (which shows an abnormal reading), E14 means the control board is receiving no data from the sensor at all. The dishwasher cannot safely control water intake without this signal, so it stops the cycle.

Affected Models

Bosch Series 2
Bosch Series 4
Bosch Series 6
Bosch Series 8
Bosch Silence Plus

Common Causes

The flow sensor has completely failed and is producing no output signal
The wiring connector between the flow sensor and the control board has come loose
The wire harness running to the flow sensor has been damaged, pinched, or broken
Limescale has completely jammed the sensor's turbine and stopped it from spinning
The control board has a fault and is no longer reading the flow sensor input correctly

How to Fix It

Start with a full power reset. Turn the dishwasher off at the wall socket, leave it for 10 minutes, then plug it back in. Run a short test cycle and check whether E14 returns.

Rarely, a temporary wiring dropout causes E14 and it clears after a reset.
Check the inlet filter mesh for severe limescale blockage. If water cannot flow past the filter at all, the turbine in the sensor never spins, producing no signal.

A fully blocked inlet filter is an easy fix — clean it with descaler or vinegar and a small brush.
If you are technically capable, remove the lower kickplate and inspect the wiring connector on the flow sensor. Check that it is firmly seated and undamaged.

Always unplug the dishwasher from the wall before touching any internal wiring.
Run a descaling cycle if your dishwasher has one, or run an empty hot cycle with a cup of white vinegar in the bottom. Heavy limescale inside the sensor housing can free up after descaling.

This works best as a preventive measure and as an early intervention — it is less effective if the sensor has fully seized.
If the error persists after cleaning and resetting, the flow sensor needs to be replaced by a technician. Provide the dishwasher's model number (on the door frame sticker) when booking.

A flow sensor replacement typically costs $80 to $150 including parts and labor.

When to Call a Professional

E14 is more definitive than E04 — the sensor has fully stopped responding. This almost always means the sensor needs replacing, a wiring connection needs reseating, or the control board is at fault. All three require accessing internal components — book an appliance technician for a safe diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between E04 and E14?

E04 means the flow sensor is present and sending data, but the readings are abnormal. E14 means the control board is receiving no signal from the sensor at all — it has gone completely silent. E14 is generally the more serious of the two and more likely to require sensor replacement.

Where is the flow sensor located in a Bosch dishwasher?

The flow sensor is typically located at the water inlet, just inside where the inlet hose connects to the machine. It is usually accessible from the underside of the dishwasher after removing the bottom kickplate. A technician will know the exact location for your specific model.

Can a limescale-blocked sensor be cleaned rather than replaced?

Sometimes, yes — if the limescale has not permanently damaged the internal turbine. Descaling the sensor housing with vinegar or citric acid may restore function. However, if the turbine spindle is physically damaged, replacement is the only reliable fix.