Bosch Washing Machine E43 error code

E43 means the drum is not rotating. The motor control cannot turn the drum — a motor fault or a communication breakdown between the motor and its inverter drive.

Also shown as: E43, E:43, F43

Last updated: October 6, 2026

Quick answer: Bosch washing machine error code E43: drum not rotating. The most common cause is failed drive motor. Try this first — unplug for 15 minutes and retry. If that does not clear it, check that the drum turns by hand.

What causes the E43 error?

  • Failed drive motor
  • Worn carbon brushes
  • Motor/inverter communication fault (EcoSilence Drive models)
  • Failed motor control board
  • Drum jammed by a foreign object
  • Broken drive belt (belt-drive models)

How to fix Bosch E43 — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Unplug for 15 minutes and retry
    Unplug the washer for 15 minutes, then plug it back in and try a Drain and Spin cycle. A control glitch can clear; a real motor fault will return the code.
    Safety warning: Do not keep restarting a washer that will not turn the drum.
  2. Check that the drum turns by hand
    With the washer unplugged, turn the drum by hand. It should rotate smoothly. If it is stuck or grinds, something is jammed between the drum and the tub.
    Safety warning: Unplug first. Never reach into a plugged-in washer.
  3. Reduce the load
    An severely overloaded drum can stall the motor. Remove laundry and try spinning the empty drum.
  4. Listen for motor activity
    Start a cycle and listen. Humming with no movement suggests a jammed drum or dead motor. Silence suggests the motor is not getting power at all — a board or wiring fault.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • E43 returns after the reset with an empty drum
  • The drum will not turn by hand
  • You hear humming, grinding, or smell burning
  • The motor or inverter board needs testing

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between E43 and E02?

E02 is a general drive motor fault. E43 specifically means the drum is not rotating — often a motor/inverter communication failure on direct-drive models.

Can a jammed object cause E43?

Yes. A bra wire or small garment wedged between the drum and tub can lock the drum solid, and the motor control reports the failure.

Is E43 fixable at home?

Only the simple checks — reset, load reduction, and the free-spin test. Motor and inverter diagnosis needs a technician.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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