Bosch Dryer E16 — What It Means & How to Fix It
E16 is the door message — the machine believes the door opened mid-cycle. Close it firmly, make sure nothing's caught in the seal, and start again.
What this code means
E16 appears when the dryer's door switch reports the door open during a run — a door not closed all the way, a sleeve or towel caught in the seal, or a switch that misread the latch. Most of the time it's physical: the door needs a firm, complete close with nothing pinched in the gasket.
Bosch's US support page lists E16 as the door-opened-during-cycle message. If a firm, pinch-free close doesn't clear it, the latch or door switch is the next suspect — an easy check for a technician and occasionally an owner-serviceable switch depending on the model.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Door not pushed fully closed at start | Very common | Yes — close firmly |
| Fabric caught in the door seal keeping it ajar | Common | Yes — free it |
| Misaligned door strike or worn latch | Occasional | Partly — visible check, then technician |
| Door switch or wiring fault | Less common | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Open the door fully and check the seal all the way around for caught fabric.
- Push the door closed with a positive click; on some models you'll feel the latch engage.
- If it closes but E16 recurs, restart the cycle and listen for the lock sound before it runs.
- Test once more with an empty drum to separate a load problem from a door problem.
- If the code shows with the door clearly latched, book service for the switch or latch.
When to call a technician
- E16 with the door visibly and audibly latched shut.
- A burnt smell at the door seal or latch area.
- The code appears the instant power is restored, before any cycle.
Typical professional repair cost: Free if it's a closure problem. A new door latch or switch, fitted, is a modest parts-and-labor job quoted by your service partner.
Frequently asked questions
The door looks closed but E16 comes back — what am I missing?
Press the door in the center until you feel the latch click — some Bosch gaskets are stiff when new and a gentle close doesn't seat fully. Also check that no item sits in the lower seal, which can look closed from outside.
Can a door closed too softly cause E16?
Yes — a partial close is the single most common way this message appears. A firm push until it clicks is all it takes with a healthy latch.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Bosch codes
- Bosch Dryer E01 E01 and E02 are your dryer telling you the fluff filter needs attention — almost always lint buildup or the filter not fully seated, occasionally residue left by liquid fabric softener.
- Bosch Dryer E03 E03 is a drainage warning: condenser water can't get away, usually because the condensate hose is kinked or blocked, or the siphon is clogged.
- Bosch Dryer E04 E04 is the overloading warning — too much laundry for the drum to process. Split the load into smaller batches and it usually clears.
- Bosch Dryer E12 E12 is the tricky one: official US text links it to heat-pump limescale buildup on condenser models, and to overheating from restricted airflow on others. Start by cleaning the airflow path.
More: all Bosch dryer codes · all Bosch codes · search by symptom