PartsFinder UK

E03

Error code

medium severity Siemens

E03 Error: If your Siemens dishwasher has displayed the E03 error code

If your Siemens dishwasher has displayed the E03 error code on its control panel, it means the appliance isn't filling with water properly during the wash cycle. You may have noticed the machine stopping mid-cycle, running without water, or refusing to start altogether. This is a water inlet fault, and whilst it might sound concerning, the good news is that many E03 errors can be resolved without calling out an expensive engineer. The problem typically stems from one of three components. The water inlet valve, which controls water flow into the machine, may be stuck or faulty. Alternatively, the Aquastop safety inlet hose—a protective mechanism that shuts off water supply if a leak is detected—could be triggered or damaged. Less commonly, the flow meter (also called the water quantity sensor) might be malfunctioning, preventing the dishwasher from recognising that water has entered the drum. Before you panic, there are several straightforward checks you can perform yourself. This guide will walk you through diagnosing the issue and explaining your repair options, whether that's a simple fix or professional assistance.

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Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Check the water inlet valve is open

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Inspect the inlet hose for kinks or blockages

  3. 3

    Step 3

    Test the water inlet valve solenoid with a multimeter

  4. 4

    Step 4

    Check the flow meter (water quantity sensor)

  5. 5

    Step 5

    Replace the inlet valve if it is not opening correctly

⚠️ Always disconnect your appliance from mains power before starting any repair. If in doubt, consult a qualified engineer.

Parts to Check in order of probability

1
valve medium

Water Inlet Valve

OEM: 00263086

# Water Inlet Valve for Bosch & Siemens Dishwashers If your dishwasher isn't filling with water properly or is leaking around the inlet area, a faulty water inlet valve is likely the culprit. Over time, these valves wear out and lose their ability to control water flow effectively, leaving you with poor wash results or water damage. This genuine OEM part, reference 00263086, is designed specifically for Bosch and Siemens dishwashers and restores proper water intake function. Replacing it is straightforward enough for a confident DIYer, with an installation difficulty rating of just 2 out of 10. When fitting the new valve, remember to turn off both the water supply and electrical power to your appliance first. This simple precaution makes the job safer and prevents accidental flooding. The valve itself typically sits behind the kick plate at the front of your dishwasher, so access is relatively easy. Before ordering, take a moment to verify your dishwasher's E-Nr model number, which you'll find on the inside of the door frame. This ensures you're getting the correct part for your specific machine and avoids any compatibility issues.
2
hose medium

Aquastop Safety Inlet Hose

OEM: 00263690

# Aquastop Safety Inlet Hose Water leaks around your dishwasher's inlet connection are a sign that the hose has worn out or failed. The Aquastop Safety Inlet Hose (OEM reference 00263690) is the replacement you need to stop pooling water and restore reliable operation to your Bosch or Siemens dishwasher. This safety hose features built-in protection that automatically shuts off water flow if a leak is detected, giving you extra peace of mind against water damage. Over time, hoses can deteriorate from repeated pressure cycles, temperature changes and mineral deposits, making replacement a straightforward maintenance job. Installation difficulty is rated at 2 out of 5, so most confident DIY homeowners can tackle this themselves. When fitting the new hose, make sure both connection points are fully tightened but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the fittings. Give each connection a gentle tug once installed to confirm they're secure. Before ordering, verify your dishwasher's E-Nr model number, which you'll find on the appliance's information label. This ensures complete compatibility and hassle-free fitting.
3
sensor medium

Flow Meter (Water Quantity Sensor)

OEM: 00631199

# Flow Meter (Water Quantity Sensor) Your dishwasher not filling properly or running through cycles without dispensing the correct amount of water? The flow meter may have failed. This sensor tells your machine exactly how much water to use, and when it wears out, your dishwasher loses its ability to regulate water levels accurately. This genuine OEM replacement flow meter, reference 00631199, is designed for Bosch and Siemens dishwashers and restores proper water management to your appliance. Installation is straightforward—rated difficulty level 2—making it an achievable DIY job for most homeowners. The key to a smooth installation is disconnecting the water supply completely before you begin work. This prevents accidental spillage and keeps you safe whilst handling the sensor connections. Take a photo of the wire placement before disconnecting anything, as this simple step makes reassembly far less stressful. Flow meters typically fail gradually through normal wear and tear, so replacing yours should resolve water-related issues immediately. Before ordering, please verify your dishwasher's E-Nr model number on the appliance documentation to ensure this part is compatible with your specific machine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the E03 error mean on a Siemens dishwasher?↓
If your Siemens dishwasher has displayed the E03 error code on its control panel, it means the appliance isn't filling with water properly during the wash cycle. You may have noticed the machine stopping mid-cycle, running without water, or refusing to start altogether. This is a water inlet fault, and whilst it might sound concerning, the good news is that many E03 errors can be resolved without calling out an expensive engineer. The problem typically stems from one of three components. The water inlet valve, which controls water flow into the machine, may be stuck or faulty. Alternatively, the Aquastop safety inlet hose—a protective mechanism that shuts off water supply if a leak is detected—could be triggered or damaged. Less commonly, the flow meter (also called the water quantity sensor) might be malfunctioning, preventing the dishwasher from recognising that water has entered the drum. Before you panic, there are several straightforward checks you can perform yourself. This guide will walk you through diagnosing the issue and explaining your repair options, whether that's a simple fix or professional assistance.
Can I fix the E03 error myself?↓
Many E03 faults can be resolved by a competent DIYer. Always disconnect from mains power first. If unsure, consult a qualified engineer.

Quick Summary

Code
E03
Brand
Siemens
Parts to check
3