E41
Bosch Dishwasher
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E41 error on a Bosch dishwasher means the door is open or the door latch is not fully engaged. Bosch dishwashers will not start or will stop mid-cycle if they detect the door is not securely closed. This is a safety feature to prevent water from leaking out during a wash.
Affected Models
- SHPM88Z75N
- SHPM65Z55N
- SHEM63W55N
- SHDX5EM3N
- Most Bosch 500, 800 series dishwashers
Common Causes
- Door was not pushed firmly enough to engage the latch
- Dishware or a utensil is protruding from the rack and blocking the door from closing
- Door latch mechanism is worn or broken
- Door hinge is bent or misaligned, preventing full closure
- Door latch switch is faulty and not registering a closed door
How to Fix It
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Open the door and check that no dishes, utensils, or the dish rack are blocking it from closing.
A pot handle or tall utensil sticking up too far is the most common reason a dishwasher door does not close fully.
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Close the door firmly until you hear a clear click from the latch.
Bosch dishwasher doors need a firm push — do not just swing it shut gently. Press it until you hear and feel the latch click.
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Inspect the door latch hook and the catch on the tub frame.
Look for visible damage, cracks, or misalignment. The hook on the door should align perfectly with the catch on the tub.
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Reset the dishwasher by turning off the circuit breaker for 5 minutes.
A power reset clears any lingering door fault signals from the control board.
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If E41 persists with a properly closing door, the latch switch needs testing and likely replacement.
A technician can test the latch switch with a multimeter. If it does not show continuity when the door is closed, the switch is faulty.
When to Call a Professional
If the door closes firmly but E41 keeps appearing, the door latch switch or latch assembly has failed. These are inexpensive parts but require disassembly of the door panel to access. Expect repair costs of $60–$130.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Bosch dishwasher show E41 when the door is closed?
The door latch switch may be worn out. This small switch detects whether the latch is engaged. Over time it can fail to register a closed door even when the door is properly shut. A technician can test it in minutes and replace it at low cost.
Can I force the dishwasher to run with E41?
No — and you should not try to bypass this error. The door interlock is a critical safety feature. A dishwasher running with an open or poorly latched door could spray hot water onto your kitchen floor. Fix the latch issue before using the machine.
How long does a Bosch dishwasher door latch last?
The door latch should last many years under normal use. The switch inside the latch can wear out after thousands of open/close cycles. If your dishwasher is over 8 years old and showing E41 regularly, the latch switch is a reasonable suspect.