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Bosch Dryer Error Code E02

DIY-friendlyReviewed November 2026Checked against manufacturer documentation
What this code means
E02: Fluff (lint) filter blocked: airflow through the dryer is restricted

E02 is the same warning as E01 on other Bosch dryer models: the fluff filter is blocked and airflow is restricted, so the cycle stops. Wash the filter under warm water to strip off softener residue, dry it completely, and refit it before running a test cycle.

Also shown as: E01

Fix level
DIY-friendly
Most people can run the checks on this page with basic household items.
Time to run the checks
About 20–40 minutes
For the 4 checks on this page — not a full repair.
You may need
No special tools
The checks below use basic household items only.
Parts that may be involved
Fluff (lint) filter, Heat exchanger (condenser)
Parts are model-specific; see the note below before ordering.

Common causes

  1. Fluff filter clogged with lint from previous loads
  2. Invisible fabric softener or detergent residue film coating the filter mesh
  3. Fluff build-up in the heat exchanger (condenser) restricting airflow

What to check, in order

Safety first. Switch the appliance off and unplug it before checking anything inside it. If you are not comfortable with any step, stop and call a technician.
  1. Pull out the fluff filter, remove all lint by hand, and rinse the filter under warm running water.
  2. Let the filter dry completely before refitting it; a damp filter blocks airflow and brings the code straight back.
  3. On condenser and heat pump models, clean the heat exchanger area as described in your manual.
  4. Run a short drying programme to confirm the code has cleared, and clean the filter after every cycle from now on.

Clear the code and test

  1. Fix what the checks above found first. Clearing the code without fixing the cause only brings it back.
  2. Plug the appliance back in and restore its water supply if it has one.
  3. Run the shortest programme and watch the point where the code appeared before.
  4. If the programme finishes with no code, the fault is cleared. If the code returns, write it down before calling a technician — it speeds up the diagnosis.

When to call a professional

Most cases are solved by the checks above. Book a technician if any of these apply:

  • The code comes back after you have run the checks and a test cycle.
  • You smell burning, see sparks or scorch marks, or the breaker trips.
  • Water is leaking and you cannot stop it at the tap.
  • The fix needs panels opened beyond what your manual describes, or a part tested with a meter, and you are not set up for that.

When you call, give the brand, the code E02, your model number (on a label inside the door or on the back) and the checks you already ran. It shortens the visit.

Parts that may be involved

Fluff (lint) filterHeat exchanger (condenser)

Parts are model-specific. Find your model number first — usually on a label inside the door, on the door frame or on the back — and match the part to that number before ordering.

Questions people ask about E02

What does E02 mean on a Bosch dryer?

E02 means: Fluff (lint) filter blocked: airflow through the dryer is restricted. E02 is the same warning as E01 on other Bosch dryer models: the fluff filter is blocked and airflow is restricted, so the cycle stops. Wash the filter under warm water to strip off softener residue, dry it completely, and refit it before running a test cycle.

Can I fix Bosch E02 myself?

Usually, yes. Code E02 is rated DIY-friendly: the checks on this page cover the common causes and use basic household items only. If the code returns after the checks and a test cycle, book a technician.

How do I clear Bosch E02?

Fix the cause first — clearing the code on its own brings it straight back. Then restore power and water, run the shortest programme, and watch the stage where the code appeared. If the programme finishes with no code, it is cleared.

Sources checked

The meaning and checks for this code were checked against the sources above in November 2026. Codes vary by model and region; if your manual lists a different meaning for your exact model, follow the manual.

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