Bosch Dishwasher Error Code E35 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The E35 error on a Bosch dishwasher means the water softener salt level is critically low, or the salt sensor is not reading correctly. Bosch dishwashers use salt to regenerate the built-in water softener, which prevents limescale buildup on dishes and internal components. Without enough salt, the softener cannot work and scale will start to build up.

Affected Models

SHPM88Z75N
SHPM65Z55N
SHEM63W55N
SHPK7TL5UC
All Bosch dishwashers with a built-in water softener

Common Causes

The dishwasher salt reservoir is empty or critically low
The salt indicator light was ignored for an extended period
Regular table salt or iodized salt was used instead of dedicated dishwasher salt, clogging the reservoir
The salt sensor inside the reservoir is coated with salt residue and is not reading correctly
The salt cap was not tightened properly after refilling, allowing dilution of the salt reservoir

How to Fix It

Open the dishwasher door and locate the salt reservoir cap — it is in the bottom of the tub, usually a round screw-top.

The cap typically has a saltshaker symbol on it.
Unscrew the cap and check the salt level by shining a flashlight inside.

The reservoir should be filled to the top. If you can see the bottom, it needs refilling.
Fill the reservoir with dishwasher-specific regenerating salt — NOT table salt, sea salt, or cooking salt.

Use a funnel to avoid spilling. Pour slowly — the reservoir holds about 1–1.5 kg of salt.
Screw the cap back on firmly and wipe up any spilled salt from the tub.

Spilled salt in the tub can cause corrosion to stainless steel — rinse the tub with water before running a cycle.
Run one full wash cycle — E35 should clear by the end of the cycle.

If E35 persists after 2 cycles with a full salt reservoir, the sensor needs professional inspection.

When to Call a Professional

If refilling the salt reservoir does not clear E35 within 1–2 cycles, the salt sensor may be faulty. A technician can test the sensor and replace it if necessary. The salt sensor is a simple part, but accessing it requires disassembling the salt reservoir area. Expect repair costs of $80–$160 if sensor replacement is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dishwasher salt and why does my Bosch need it?

Dishwasher salt is a coarse sodium chloride specifically designed for dishwasher water softeners. It is different from table salt — it is purer, coarser, and does not contain additives that can damage the softener. The softener uses salt to recharge its ion-exchange resin, which removes calcium and magnesium from your water. Soft water prevents white spots on glasses and limescale buildup inside the machine.

Does every Bosch dishwasher need salt, even in soft water areas?

If you live in a soft water area, you may need very little salt — but the reservoir still needs occasional top-ups. Bosch dishwashers allow you to set the water softener level from 0 to 7 based on your local water hardness. At setting 0, the salt indicator may not appear often, but the reservoir should never run completely dry. Check your local water authority's website to find your water hardness level.

Can I use table salt in a Bosch dishwasher if I run out of dishwasher salt?

No — never use table salt, sea salt, rock salt, or cooking salt in a Bosch dishwasher. These types of salt contain iodine, anti-caking agents, and other additives that can damage the water softener resin and clog the salt sensor. Only use dedicated dishwasher regenerating salt, available at most supermarkets and hardware stores.