How to Reset a Bosch Dishwasher: All Methods
Updated · from manufacturer service documentation
A reset clears a displayed error code or an interrupted cycle and gives the control a fresh start — useful once you've already addressed (or ruled out) the underlying cause. It won't fix a genuine part failure on its own; if the same fault comes right back after a reset, that confirms the cause is still present.
Quick Reset: Cancel-Drain
To reset the dishwasher, push the Cancel-Drain (or Cancel-Reset, depending on model labeling) buttons at the same time. This is the standard everyday reset for a stuck or interrupted cycle.
Clearing Stored Error Codes: Customer Service Test Program
For a stored fault code rather than just an interrupted cycle:
- While pushing and holding any two wash cycle buttons, turn the dishwasher on with the on/off switch.
- After releasing the buttons, LED "B" lights and LED "C" flashes, confirming you're in the special programs menu.
- Push button "B" repeatedly until the digital display shows "P1" or until LED "C" is lit — this is the test program.
- Push button "C" to start the program; stored error codes will show on the digital display and LEDs.
- Run the customer service test program through to clear the stored codes.
Note: the test program can only be stopped or reset by pushing the on/off button — turning off the power directly does not exit it cleanly.
If the Code Comes Back
If the same error reappears right after a reset, the reset only cleared the display — it didn't fix the cause. Work through that specific error code's cause list rather than resetting repeatedly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the quickest way to reset a Bosch dishwasher?
Press Cancel-Drain (or Cancel-Reset) at the same time — this is the standard reset for a stuck cycle and doesn't require entering any special mode.
How do I clear a stored error code specifically?
Enter the customer service test program (hold two wash cycle buttons while powering on, then navigate to "P1") and run it through — this displays and clears stored fault codes, unlike the everyday Cancel-Drain reset.
Can I just turn the dishwasher off at the breaker to reset it?
Not cleanly if you're in the test program — the documentation specifically notes the test program can only be stopped by pushing the on/off button, not by cutting power.
Why does my display show a strange combination of letters/numbers?
Per the service documentation, this often happens when someone (a customer) held Cancel-Drain or Cancel-Reset while turning the dishwasher on, accidentally entering a test or special program mode — exit it with the on/off button rather than assuming it's a fault.
Based on the Bosch service documentation for the SHE55P dishwasher platform. Last updated: .