Bosch Dryer DR Error Code: What It Means and How to Fix It

Last updated: October 5, 2026 · Codes covered: DR · Sources

DR on a Bosch dryer has two possible meanings, depending on your model. Bosch US says it means the door isn't properly closed or there's a door switch problem. On at least one Bosch condensation dryer, the 300 Series WTG86403UC, a DR indicator means condensation water hasn't drained completely. Either way, the first fixes are simple and safe. Check your manual to see which meaning applies to your dryer.

What the DR code means

Meaning 1: door not properly closed (Bosch US). Bosch's US dryer error code page says DR means the door isn't properly closed or there's a problem with the door switch. Bosch says to make sure the door is firmly closed and not blocked, and if the code persists, to check the door latch and switch for visible damage or misalignment and make sure the wiring connections are secure.

Meaning 2: water not draining (some condenser models). Condensation dryers don't vent outside. They turn the moisture from your laundry into water and pump it out through a drain hose. The Bosch owner's manual for the WTG86403UC compact condensation dryer says that if the DR indicator lights up, the drain hose is blocked and water has not drained completely. Bosch says to check the drain hose and its connection.

How to tell which one you have:

• Condensation dryer with a drain hose (no outside vent, hose running to a standpipe or sink)? Check your manual's troubleshooting table. If it lists DR as a drain problem, start with the drain hose fixes below.
• Vented dryer, or your manual lists DR as a door problem? Start with the door.
• Not sure? Check the door first. It takes seconds. Then check the drain hose if you have one.

Bosch models and displays vary, and we've only confirmed the drain meaning for the WTG86403UC. Your manual is the final word.

A look-alike code: Bosch US says E16 means the door was opened during a drying cycle. Close the door securely and press Start to continue.

Likely causes (most common first)

If DR means the door:

1. Laundry caught in the door. A sleeve or sock can stop it from latching.
2. Door not pushed fully shut. Bosch's manual says to close it until you hear a click.
3. Damaged or misaligned latch. Bosch says to check the latch for visible damage or misalignment.
4. Door switch or wiring problem. Bosch mentions a door switch issue and loose wiring connections.

If DR means water isn't draining (condenser models):

1. Kinked or crushed drain hose, often behind the dryer or under a stacked washer.
2. Blocked drain hose or drain. Lint or debris in the hose, or a clogged standpipe or sink.
3. Drain set up wrong. Bosch's WTG86403UC manual says the hose end must not sit in standing water, the drain opening must not be sealed, and the drain must not be higher than 39 inches (100 cm).
4. Hose ties pulled too tight. Bosch warns that overtightened plastic ties can pinch the hose.
5. Drain pump or internal problem. If the hose is clear and DR stays on, Bosch says to contact Customer Service.

How to fix it, step by step

Do these in order, and try a cycle after each step.

1. Turn the dryer off. Bosch says to set the program selector to Off before doing any maintenance or troubleshooting.
2. Check the door.
   • Open it and look for laundry caught around the door opening or seal.
   • Close it firmly until you hear a click.
   • Make sure nothing (a laundry basket, a stacked item) is pushing against the door.
3. Look at the latch. With the door open, check the latch and the hook on the door for cracks, damage, or misalignment. Wipe away lint.
4. Restart. Select your program and press Start/Pause. If DR is gone, you're done.
5. If you have a condensation dryer, check the drain hose.
   • Follow it from the back of the dryer to the drain, and straighten any kinks or crimps along its whole length.
   • Make sure the plastic ties holding it aren't pinching it.
   • Check that the hose end isn't sitting in standing water and isn't sealed into the drain. Bosch says the drain opening must stay open to prevent back-siphoning.
   • Check that the drain isn't higher than 39 inches (100 cm), per the WTG86403UC manual.
6. Check the drain itself. Make sure the standpipe, sink, or floor drain isn't clogged or backing up.
7. Check the hose connection at the back. Bosch's manual says to make sure the hose is clamped securely on the barb at the back of the dryer. Don't disconnect the hose from the pump connection at the bottom of the dryer. Bosch warns against it.
8. Keep the condenser clean. It isn't a DR fix in itself, but Bosch recommends cleaning the condenser about once a month and cleaning the lint filter regularly. Follow your manual's steps.
9. Stop if DR stays on. Bosch's manual says that if the DR indicator still lights up after you've checked the drain hose, contact Customer Service. For a door-related DR that won't clear, the door switch or wiring needs a technician.

Test the part

Bosch's manual says repairs and part replacement should be done by authorized service providers only. These checks are visual and don't involve opening the dryer.

1. Unplug the dryer. Turn the program selector to Off, then pull the plug or switch off the breaker.
2. Inspect the door latch and hook. Look for cracks, broken plastic, bent metal, or a hook that doesn't line up with the latch opening.
3. Check the door hinges. The door should close squarely without dragging or sagging.
4. Inspect the drain hose (condenser models). Look for kinks, cracks, splits, or flattened sections along its length. Bosch's manual says to replace a leaking hose and to use only the drain hose that came with the dryer, not an old or different one.
5. Check the hose for blockage. If you can safely free the drain end, check that it's clear. Don't pull the hose off the pump connection at the bottom of the dryer.
6. Don't open the cabinet. We didn't find a Bosch homeowner test for the door switch or drain pump, and both sit behind panels. If the latch and hose look fine and DR keeps coming back, stop and call Bosch service.

Safety notes

When to call a pro

Call Bosch Customer Service or an authorized technician if:

• DR stays on after you've closed the door firmly and checked the latch.
• The latch, hook, or hinge is broken or misaligned.
• On a condenser model, DR stays lit after you've checked the drain hose, its connection, and the drain. Bosch's manual says to contact Customer Service in this case.
• Water is leaking from the dryer.
• Your dryer is under warranty. Check the terms before doing anything beyond the basic checks.

Bosch Customer Service (US, large appliances): 1-800-944-2904, listed on Bosch's contact page. Have your model number (E-Nr.) and serial number (FD) ready. They're on the rating plate.

FAQ

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