# How to Fix Bosch Error E13 (Drain Time Exceeded)
The Bosch E13 error is a common frustration, but it is one of the most straightforward errors to diagnose and often fix yourself. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to clear blockages and determine if a part replacement is needed.
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## 1. Explanation: What does the E13 error mean?
The E13 error code indicates that your Bosch washing machine has failed to pump the water out of the drum within the allotted time limit.
In plain English, the machine believes it has a drainage problem. This means one of three things is happening:
1. **A Blockage:** Something (lint, sock, coin) is physically stopping the water from flowing.
2. **A Kinked Hose:** The external drain hose is bent, preventing flow.
3. **A Faulty Pump:** The electronic drain pump responsible for pushing the water out has failed electrically or mechanically.
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## 2. Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the Problem
Before attempting any repairs, **always unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet.** You will also need towels and a shallow container (like a baking tray) ready, as water will leak out during diagnosis.
### Step 1: Check the Drain Hose and External Plumbing
Start with the simplest checks outside the machine:
1. **Check for Kinks:** Examine the large flexible drain hose running from the back of the washer to the drain pipe or sink. Ensure it is not bent, crushed, or pushed too far into the standpipe (which can create an airlock).
2. **Verify the Standpipe:** Pour a pitcher of water down the standpipe (if you use one). If the water backs up, the blockage is in your house plumbing, not the washing machine.
### Step 2: Clean the Drain Pump Filter (The Most Common Culprit)
The drain pump filter (or coin trap) is the most frequent cause of the E13 error. It is designed to catch foreign objects before they enter and destroy the pump.
1. **Access the Filter:** The filter is usually located behind a small panel or kick plate at the very bottom front of the machine. Open this panel.
2. **Drain Residual Water:** Most Bosch models have a small drainage tube or plug near the filter cap. Place your container under this area and use the tube or plug to manually drain all remaining water before opening the main filter.
3. **Remove the Filter Cap:** Slowly twist the large filter cap counter-clockwise. Be prepared for a small amount of water to still spill out.
4. **Clear Debris:** Thoroughly clean the filter cap and the housing area. Remove any lint, coins, hairpins, or small pieces of fabric.
5. **Reinstall:** Screw the filter cap back in tightly (clockwise) and secure the access panel.
### Step 3: Check the Pump Impeller for Blockage or Seizing
If cleaning the filter did not resolve the error, the obstruction may be further inside the pump mechanism.
1. **Access the Impeller:** With the filter cap removed (from Step 2), look deep inside the drain pump housing where the cap screws in. You should see the **impeller** (a small fan or propeller).
2. **Test the Impeller:** Use your finger or a thin screwdriver to gently try and spin the impeller blades.
* **If it spins freely:** The pump is likely clear of blockages, but may be suffering an electrical failure (requires replacement).
* **If it is stiff or seized:** There is a blockage deep inside the pump housing, likely a small sock, baby garment, or wiring. Carefully remove the obstruction using pliers or tweezers.
### Step 4: Test the Drain Pump (Replacement Necessary)
If you have confirmed that:
* The external hose is clear.
* The filter is clean.
* The impeller spins freely, and there is no debris.
…then the drain pump itself has failed electrically. It is running, but the internal motor is not generating enough power (or is completely dead).
At this stage, the pump needs to be replaced. Replacing a drain pump is a standard home repair that requires accessing the machine’s base, usually by tilting the machine back or laying it on its side, disconnecting the old pump, and clipping in the new one.
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Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Bosch+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20