Bosch Dishwasher E18 Error: Low Water Flow Fix & Valve Part (#00628334)
Quick Answer: The E18 error code on a Bosch dishwasher means water is entering the machine too slowly or not at all. It is almost always caused by a failing Water Inlet Valve (#00628334) behind the lower kickplate or a faulty Flow Meter Reed Switch (#00611317) on the left water matrix.
⚠️ Don't Confuse E18 with E15: While E15 means a leak in the bottom pan, E18 means the dishwasher is starving for water! In 75% of cases, the electromagnet inside inlet valve #00628334 weakens and fails to open fully under household water pressure.
#1 Most Common Fix: Bosch OEM Water Inlet Solenoid Valve
Official OEM Part Number: #00628334
⏱️ Install Time: 15 Minutes (Mounted right behind front kickplate) | 💰 Avg Cost: $32.00 – $39.00 (Saves $300 service call)
Step 1: Free 2-Minute Reset & Test (Try This First)
Before ordering replacement parts, perform this quick reset sequence to rule out a temporary sensor trip:
- Check under your kitchen sink to ensure the hot/cold water shut-off valve feeding the dishwasher is turned 100% counter-clockwise (fully open).
- Unplug the dishwasher for 3 minutes to reset the electronic control board.
- Disconnect the supply hose under the sink and check the small mesh sediment screen inside the brass fitting for calcium scale.
- If water pressure from the sink pipe is strong, replace the dishwasher's Water Inlet Valve (#00628334).
Step 2: 60-Second Symptom & Part Number Lookup Table
Match your exact Bosch E18 symptom below to get the factory replacement part number:
| What You Are Seeing (Symptom) | Required OEM Part & Number | Difficulty & Cost | Direct Part Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water pressure under sink is good, but dishwasher hums and throws E18 within 2 minutes Cause: Seized or weak Water Inlet Valve solenoid |
Bosch Water Inlet Valve#00628334 |
Easy DIY (15 min at front base) Est: $34.50 |
Check Price on Amazon → |
| Dishwasher fills with plenty of water, then drains it out and flashes E18 anyway Cause: Failed reed switch sensor inside the side water inlet chamber |
Bosch Flow Meter Reed Switch#00611317 |
Easy DIY (15 min, left side panel) Est: $19.99 |
Check Price on Amazon → |
Frequently Asked Questions (Bosch E18)
Where is the water inlet valve (#00628334) located on a Bosch dishwasher?
It is located right at the front bottom-left corner behind the metal kickplate. You do not even need to pull the dishwasher out from under the counter to replace it.