Bosch Dishwasher E22 Error — Filter Clogged

What Does This Error Mean?

E22 on a Bosch dishwasher means the filter at the bottom of the cavity is clogged — the wash pump cannot circulate water effectively. Remove and clean the filter, then restart the cycle. This is a routine maintenance code, not a fault.

Affected Models

Bosch SHPM88Z75N
Bosch SHEM63W55N
Bosch SGV68U53UC
Bosch SHX9PCM5N
Bosch SMV68IX02E

Common Causes

Food debris (rice, peas, paper labels) blocking the filter mesh
Filter not cleaned for several months
Filter not seated correctly after a previous cleaning
Heavy grease build-up on the filter from un-rinsed plates

How to Fix It

Open the dishwasher and remove the bottom rack.

Pull the lower rack out and set it aside to access the filter assembly at the bottom of the cavity.
Twist out the filter.

The Bosch filter is the cylindrical assembly in the bottom centre of the cavity. Twist anti-clockwise to unlock and lift out. There may be a coarse outer filter and a fine inner cylinder — separate both.
Rinse the filter under hot water.

Hold each filter section under hot tap water and use a soft brush (an old toothbrush is ideal) to dislodge food residue. Pay attention to the mesh — even small clogs reduce flow. Use mild dish soap if greasy.
Refit the filter.

Fit the inner fine cylinder back into the coarse outer, drop the assembly into the cavity, and twist clockwise until it locks. Confirm it is firmly seated — a partially fitted filter triggers E22 on the next wash.
Run a hot rinse cycle.

Without dishes, run a short hot rinse to flush any residual debris and confirm E22 has cleared. Future-proof: scrape plates before loading and clean the filter every 2–4 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean the Bosch filter?

Bosch recommends cleaning the filter every 2–4 weeks in normal household use, or weekly if you do not pre-rinse plates. Filters should always be cleaned after a wash that contained heavy food residue (rice, pasta sauce, etc).

Can E22 mean the pump itself is failing?

Rarely — E22 is overwhelmingly caused by a clogged filter or grease build-up. If you have cleaned the filter thoroughly and E22 returns immediately, the wash pump impeller may be jammed (often by a piece of glass or seed that got past the filter).