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Bosch E11 Error: Temperature Sensor (NTC) Fault

Quick Answer

Bosch E11 is a bad NTC temperature sensor - this is one of the cheapest Bosch repairs at under $25 for the part. Test it yourself: disconnect the 2-wire connector and measure resistance. At room temperature it should read 10,000-12,000 ohms. Open circuit means the thermistor burned out. The sensor is accessible without disassembly on most models.

Bosch E11 means the NTC temperature sensor is giving bad readings. The sensor is a small, inexpensive thermistor (usually under $25) and this is one of the most cost-effective Bosch repairs. At room temperature (70F), the NTC should read 10,000-12,000 ohms. An open circuit (OL) means the thermistor element has burned out. A very low reading (near 0 ohms) means a short. Both require sensor replacement. The sensor is accessible without any disassembly in most Bosch models.

BoschDishwasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate90% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$12 – $25
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Flathead screwdriver
Wrong code?

Not seeing E11 on your display?

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What Does the E11 Code Mean?

NTC stands for Negative Temperature Coefficient - a thermistor type whose resistance decreases as temperature increases. Bosch uses this sensor to monitor wash water temperature and control the heater accordingly. When E11 appears, the control board has detected that the NTC reading is outside the valid range for the current phase of the cycle. Unlike H01 (which is a functional timeout), E11 specifically flags the sensor as the faulty component.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

NTC thermistor open circuit (dead element)40%
NTC thermistor short circuit (rare)24%
Water damage to the NTC connector22%
Corroded wiring connector between NTC and control board14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • E11 displayed during wash or heat cycle
  • Dishwasher stops mid-cycle at heating phase
  • E11 and E09 appearing together or alternating
  • Dishes not heated properly before E11 appears

Can you reset a Bosch dishwasher to clear the E11 code?

After replacing the NTC sensor, hold Start/Reset for 5 seconds to clear E11. Run a test cycle to confirm the error does not return.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterFlathead screwdriverElectrical contact cleaner

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Locate the NTC sensor

The NTC sensor is a small cylindrical probe (about 1 inch long) mounted in the sump area or the wash water circuit. It has a 2-wire connector. On most Bosch models, it is visible after removing the filter assembly and looking at the sump floor or wall.

2

Test the NTC resistance

3

Inspect the connector and wiring

ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range1000012000 ohms at room temperature
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
NTC Temperature Sensor00165258 · $12–$25

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $19 (Parts) vs $650 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What resistance should the Bosch NTC sensor show on a multimeter?
At room temperature (68-77F), a healthy Bosch NTC sensor reads approximately 10,000-12,000 ohms. As the sensor warms up (in hot wash water), its resistance drops, which is how the control board tracks water temperature. If your reading is OL (open circuit) or significantly outside the 10,000-12,000 range at room temperature, replace the sensor.
E11 and E09 are appearing together - what does that mean?
E11 (bad NTC sensor) and E09 (heater failure) together usually means the NTC is giving such bad readings that the control board cannot determine whether the heater is working. Start by replacing the NTC sensor first, since it costs $12-$25. After replacing the NTC and clearing the codes, run a cycle. If E09 returns without E11, the heater itself has also failed and needs replacement.
Where is the NTC sensor located in a Bosch dishwasher?
The NTC sensor is mounted in the sump assembly at the bottom of the dishwasher tub. Remove the lower spray arm and filter basket to access the sump area. The sensor is a small probe, roughly the size of a pencil eraser, inserted into the sump wall or floor with a 2-wire connector attached. It does not require pulling the dishwasher out to access.
How much does NTC sensor replacement cost on a Bosch dishwasher?
The OEM NTC sensor (part 00165258) costs $12-$25. It takes 20-30 minutes to replace. This is one of the most affordable repairs on a Bosch dishwasher. Even if a technician is hired, the total repair (part plus labor) typically stays under $150, making it worthwhile on any Bosch that is otherwise in good condition.
Can I use the dishwasher with E11 showing?
The dishwasher will typically stop the cycle when E11 appears because the control board cannot verify water temperature without a functioning sensor. Running cycles without a working NTC also means the heater has no feedback loop and could run too long or not long enough. Resolve E11 before regular use.

Related Bosch Dishwasher Error Codes

Same Fix on Other Brands

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Bosch shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Models Known to Experience E11 Errors

This repair applies to most Bosch dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

SHPM88Z75N, SHPM88Z55N, SHPK7ZL55N, SHE3AR75UC, SHEM63W55N, SHPM65Z55N, SHE3AR72UC, SHDF78Z55N, SHEM78ZH5N, SHPM98Z75N

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026