Bosch Dryer Error Code E:03: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Bosch dryer error code E:03 means: Maximum drying time exceeded. The maximum drying time is 4 hours. [1] Keep using it? No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Bosch dryer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	E:03
Also shown as	E:13
Brand / appliance	Bosch dryer
System	Heating
Meaning (service chart)	Maximum drying time exceeded. The maximum drying time is 4 hours. [1]
Keep using it?	No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904
Source document	Bosch dryer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code E:03 means on a Bosch dryer

Maximum drying time exceeded. The maximum drying time is 4 hours. [1]

This is a heating code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Bosch dryer error code E:03 (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Bosch dryer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (E:03) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your dryer and order the right parts.
Rebalance the load. Reduce the load size if the dryer is too full to dry.
Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If E:03 comes back after these checks, stop using the dryer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Bosch dryer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Heating system components

When to call a technician

If the dryer isn't getting hot enough to dry clothing, unplug the dryer and check the heating element or gas burner components.
Technician: replace any defective heating components.
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904 first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code E:03 mean on a Bosch dryer?

The Bosch dryer error-code chart lists E:03 as follows: Maximum drying time exceeded. The maximum drying time is 4 hours.

Is it safe to keep using the dryer with E:03?

No. Stop using it until the cause is fixed.

Can I fix Bosch dryer error E:03 myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Bosch Customer Support: 1-800-944-2904.

Is E:13 the same as E:03?

Yes. The source chart lists E:13 with the same meaning as E:03; the display format depends on the model.

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Bosch dryer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Bosch.