E15 Leak sensor activated - water in base pan

serious

The Bosch E15 error code on your dishwasher indicates: Leak sensor activated - water in base pan. This typically requires troubleshooting the leak system.

Bosch Dishwasher Affects 3 models

What Causes Error E15

high likelihood #1

Door seal/gasket damage

The rubber seal around the door is torn, warped, or dirty, allowing water to escape.

high likelihood #2

Overfilling or improper loading

Overloading blocks spray arms or causes water to splash out of the tub.

medium likelihood #3

Pump or hose connection leak

A hose clamp has loosened or a pump gasket is worn, causing a drip.

low likelihood #4

Tub or sump crack

The inner tub or sump housing has cracked, allowing water to seep out.

How to Fix Error E15

  1. Step 1: Identify the leak location

    Run a short cycle and watch where water appears. Front = door seal. Underneath = hose or pump. Back = supply line.

  2. Step 2: Check the door seal

    Run your finger along the entire door gasket. Feel for tears, hard/brittle spots, or gaps. Clean the seal with soapy water and a cloth — buildup prevents a good seal.

  3. Step 3: Inspect hose connections

    Unplug the appliance and look at every hose connection underneath. Tighten any loose clamps. Look for drips or mineral deposits (white crusty buildup) at connection points.

  4. Step 4: Check for proper loading

    Make sure spray arms can spin freely and nothing is blocking them from turning. Overloaded racks deflect water in unintended directions.

  5. Step 5: Inspect the tub/sump

    Look inside the bottom of the tub with a flashlight for cracks. Check the sump area underneath the appliance.

  6. Step 6: Replace the door gasket or tighten fittings

    Door gaskets usually just press-fit into a channel around the door. Hose clamps can be tightened with pliers or a screwdriver.

Parts You Might Need

If troubleshooting doesn't resolve error E15, you may need to replace one of these parts:

Door Gasket/Seal

seal $15-$45
Find on Amazon PartSelect

Pump Seal

seal $10-$25
Find on Amazon PartSelect

Hose Clamp Kit

other $5-$10
Find on Amazon PartSelect

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When to Call a Professional

If the leak is coming from the tub or pump housing, or if you see water damage to flooring or cabinets

  • Tub cracks usually mean the appliance needs replacement
  • Water damage to cabinets and floors needs professional assessment
  • Pump housing leaks may require specialized seals

Video Repair Guides

Watch a repair walkthrough for this error code on YouTube:

▶ Search YouTube for "Bosch dishwasher error E15 fix"

Models Affected

This error code has been reported on the following Bosch dishwasher models:

SHPM88Z75NSHP878ZD5NSHE3AR76UC