Bosch E19 indicates a faulty water fill valve solenoid. Test the solenoid resistance with a multimeter; a reading between 500 and 1,500 ohms is normal. If the circuit is open or the plunger sticks, replace the inlet valve.
While an E19 code often signals a complete solenoid failure, technicians frequently find that heat-induced mechanical sticking causes intermittent faults. This error prevents the dishwasher from filling correctly, often halting the cycle immediately. Replacing the water inlet valve is the standard industry solution to restore reliable operation and prevent further drainage or filling issues.
The water inlet valve on a Bosch dishwasher has one or two solenoid coils that open and close the valve when energized by the control board. E19 indicates the control board detected an issue with this solenoid circuit - either no current response (solenoid failed), unexpected current draw, or the diverter valve (present on some models to direct water to different spray zones) is not responding.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Fill valve solenoid coil burned out (open circuit)40%
Diverter valve solenoid failure on multi-zone models24%
Wiring damage between control board and inlet valve22%
Dishwasher not filling with water before E19 appears
Intermittent E19 that clears with a cool-down period
E19 on hot cycles but not cold start cycles
Can you reset a Bosch dishwasher to clear the E19 code?
After replacing the inlet valve, hold Start/Reset for 5 seconds and run a test fill cycle to confirm E19 is cleared.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
MultimeterPliersTorx T20 screwdriver
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range500–1500 ohms
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
OEM Number
Estimated Price
Water Inlet Valve Assembly00631199 · $28–$60
00631199
$28 – $60
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between E19 and 5UC on a Bosch dishwasher?
5UC means no water supply was detected at all - the dishwasher opened the valve but found nothing coming through. The cause is almost always external to the dishwasher (shut-off valve closed, AquaStop hose triggered, kinked hose). E19 means the fill valve solenoid circuit itself has an electrical fault - the control board sent a signal to open the valve but detected an abnormal response from the solenoid circuit. E19 is an internal component failure; 5UC is a supply path problem. If you have E19 and the water supply is confirmed on, the valve solenoid is the next item to test.
How do I test the fill valve solenoid on a Bosch dishwasher?
Turn off power and water. Locate the inlet valve at the rear of the dishwasher. Disconnect the solenoid's 2-wire connector. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (ohms). Place the probes on the two solenoid terminals and read the resistance. A reading of 500-1,500 ohms indicates a functional coil. An OL (open loop) reading means the coil wire has burned through internally and the valve must be replaced. A reading below 100 ohms indicates a short circuit - also requires replacement.
Why does E19 only show up sometimes on my Bosch?
Intermittent E19 most commonly indicates a solenoid plunger that sticks due to mineral deposits. When the solenoid is cold, the plunger moves freely and the valve opens normally. After several cycles of hot water flow, the plunger shaft heats up and thermal expansion causes stiction against the mineral deposits - the solenoid then fails to open fully. This pattern shows as E19 appearing after the dishwasher has been running a while but not on the first cycle of the day. Replacing the inlet valve is the correct fix for this condition.
Where is the diverter valve on a Bosch dishwasher?
The diverter valve on Bosch dishwashers is typically mounted on or adjacent to the circulation pump housing at the bottom center of the dishwasher tub. It is accessed by removing the lower spray arm and the bottom filter assembly, then removing the pump cover. Not all Bosch models have a diverter valve - it is more common on 500 and 800 series models with multi-zone wash systems. The diverter valve has its own solenoid with a separate wiring connector from the main inlet valve.
Can E19 appear after plumbing work in the kitchen?
Yes. Plumbing work that disturbs water supply pipes can send pipe scale or solder fragments downstream into the dishwasher supply line. These particles can lodge in the solenoid valve body and cause the plunger to stick in the closed position, producing E19 symptoms. If E19 appears within days of plumbing work in the kitchen, disconnect the supply hose, remove the inlet valve, and inspect for debris inside the valve body. Replacing the inlet valve is appropriate if debris has entered the valve housing.