Bosch washing machine

Bosch F18 error code: drain fault

Newer models use F18 for the same drain-time-exceeded fault as E18.

DIY: easyTypical repair: £70–£150 for a pump replacement including parts; filter clearing is free.

Likely causes

Blocked pump filter
Blocked drain hose
Failed drain pump

How to fix F18

Unplug the washing machine (or switch off at the wall) for 5–10 minutes to clear any temporary fault, then restart it.
Clear the filter and hose as for E18.
Test a drain cycle.
Run a short test cycle. If F18 returns, the fault is still there and an engineer should look at it.

Always switch off and unplug the appliance before inspecting it. Never work on gas appliances or fixed electrical wiring yourself — call a Gas Safe registered engineer or a qualified electrician.

Full fault guide

Washing machine not drainingDetailed causes, DIY steps and costs

Other Bosch washing machine error codes

Bosch washing machine repair near you

Frequently asked questions

What does Bosch error code F18 mean?

Newer models use F18 for the same drain-time-exceeded fault as E18. On a Bosch washing machine, F18 is shown as "drain fault".

How do I clear the F18 error on a Bosch washing machine?

Switch the appliance off at the wall for 5–10 minutes, then restart. If F18 comes back, work through the checks on this page — the fault is real and needs fixing, not just resetting.

How much does it cost to fix Bosch F18?

£70–£150 for a pump replacement including parts; filter clearing is free. is typical, depending on the part. Simple blockages cost nothing to clear yourself.

Does F18 mean the same on every Bosch model?

Not always. Codes are broadly consistent within a brand, but model ranges differ. Check your manual if the symptoms below don’t match.