PartsCompat UK

E16

Error code

medium severity Siemens

E16: Drainage Fault

You've likely noticed water pooling at the base of your Siemens dishwasher, or perhaps you've spotted moisture inside the drum even though the machine is switched off. That E16 error code appearing on your display is your dishwasher's way of alerting you to a water inlet problem.

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Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Turn off water supply to dishwasher

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Test the inlet valve — it should close completely when power is off

  3. 3

    Step 3

    Replace the inlet valve if it is leaking

⚠️ 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the E16 error mean on a Siemens dishwasher?↓
You've likely noticed water pooling at the base of your Siemens dishwasher, or perhaps you've spotted moisture inside the drum even though the machine is switched off. That E16 error code appearing on your display is your dishwasher's way of alerting you to a water inlet problem. Specifically, it means water is leaking into the appliance when it should be completely sealed and dry. The good news is that E16 faults are often straightforward to diagnose and frequently fixable without calling out an expensive engineer. In the vast majority of cases, the culprit is a faulty water inlet valve – the component responsible for controlling water flow into your machine. This valve can wear out over time or develop internal damage that prevents it from closing properly. Before you panic about repair costs, it's worth checking a few simple things yourself. Inspect the inlet hose connections at the back of your dishwasher for any visible cracks or loose fittings. More often than not, however, you'll need to replace the inlet valve itself. This is a reasonably accessible repair that many homeowners tackle themselves with basic tools and a bit of patience.
Can I fix the E16 error myself?↓
Many E16 faults can be resolved by a competent DIYer. Always disconnect from mains power first. If unsure, consult a qualified engineer.

Quick Summary

Code
E16
Brand
Siemens
Parts to check
1