E13
Bosch Refrigerator
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E13 error points to a fault with the evaporator temperature sensor. The evaporator is the coil inside your fridge that actually creates the cold. This sensor tells the fridge when the evaporator is cold enough.
Affected Models
- Bosch Series 4 Refrigerator
- Bosch Series 6 Refrigerator
- Bosch Series 8 Refrigerator
- Bosch Benchmark Series Refrigerator
Common Causes
- Evaporator temperature sensor has failed or is out of range
- Wiring to the sensor is pinched, frayed, or disconnected
- Heavy frost buildup on the evaporator coils masking the sensor
- Refrigerant leak causing abnormal evaporator temperatures
- Control board misreading the sensor signal
How to Fix It
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Unplug the refrigerator and wait 5 minutes.
This clears any temporary electronic fault that may have triggered E13.
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Plug back in and check if the error is gone.
If it clears and does not return within a few hours, the issue was likely a one-time glitch.
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Manually defrost the refrigerator if you have not done so recently.
Unplug, remove all food, and leave the doors open for 24–48 hours. Heavy frost on the evaporator coils is a very common cause of E13.
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After defrosting, plug the fridge back in and monitor for the error.
If E13 does not return after a full defrost cycle, frost buildup was the cause.
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If the error returns, the evaporator sensor itself likely needs replacement.
The evaporator sensor is usually located near or clipped directly onto the evaporator coils behind the back panel of the freezer.
When to Call a Professional
If you suspect a refrigerant leak — unusual hissing sounds, oily residue near coils — call a certified technician immediately. Refrigerant handling requires a licensed professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the evaporator sensor located in a Bosch refrigerator?
It is typically clipped onto or near the evaporator coils. These coils are behind the back panel inside the freezer compartment. You will need to remove a few screws to access the back panel.
Can a dirty condenser cause the E13 error?
Not directly, but dirty condenser coils make the whole refrigeration system work harder. This can cause abnormal temperatures that stress the evaporator sensor. Cleaning the condenser coils (usually at the bottom back) is always a good maintenance step.
How long can I leave my Bosch fridge running with E13 showing?
Not long if your food temperatures are rising. If the fridge still feels cold, you have a short window to act. Do not leave perishables at risk — move them to a cooler if needed.