If you’re the proud owner of a Bosch dishwasher featuring the nifty red InfoLight that casts its glow on the floor, you know how incredibly convenient it can be.
No more hassles of constantly checking or listening in to see if your dishwasher is hard at work – the InfoLight has got your back!
But what does it mean when it starts blinking?
In this article, I will take you through the causes and fixes to restore InfoLight to its reliable, steady state.
Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Understanding the Bosch Dishwasher Blinking Red Light (InfoLight)
The InfoLight is the nifty red light that shines on the floor in certain models of Bosch dishwashers. This is mostly the 300, 500, and 800 series dishwashers.
This attention-grabbing light emanates from a single LED bulb with a diffuser hidden at the bottom of the door panel.
It’s a neat touch that adds a touch of modern flair to your kitchen, all while keeping you informed that your dishwasher is running.
According to Bosch, some of their users had trouble knowing whether their dishwasher was running or not.
Reason?
This line of dishwashers is too quiet, which some users agree with.
When the dishwasher is in action, the InfoLight comes to life with a steady red glow, letting you know that magic is happening.
Once the cycle concludes, the InfoLight switches off. (How I wish it turned green or another color to signal the end of a cycle!)
Now:
Sometimes, the InfoLight can start blinking, which is what Lucas Wade and I are discussing in this post.
Lucas is a top appliance repair technician from Green Bay, Wisconsin, and as you’d expect, he is a Cheesehead.
8 Reasons Your Bosch Dishwasher InfoLight is Blinking Red
1. Low Rinse Aid
Problem:
The first potential culprit for your Bosch dishwasher’s red light blinking could be a low rinse aid level, especially if you’ve chosen a setting that calls for it.
According to Lucas,
“For Bosch dishwasher drying technologies like Pure Dry and Crystal Dry to work their magic, there must be an ample supply of rinse aid.“
So:
When the dishwasher detects that the rinse aid is running low, it will trigger the InfoLight to start blinking.
Rinse aid isn’t only for drying; it’s a real game-changer if you’re dealing with hard water.
Take Bosch, for example; they strongly recommend using a rinse aid (page 15) if your area’s water hardness exceeds 21° dH
Identification:
To troubleshoot the low rinse aid issue, simply locate the rinse aid compartment positioned right next to the detergent compartment.
As Lucas explains,
“Look out for a latch or slide mechanism that allows you to open the compartment. Once opened, peep inside to check the current level of rinse aid remaining.”
Solution:
If you find that the rinse aid is running low, top it up, but don’t overfill.
Once you’re done, close the compartment and wipe off any excess rinse aid that might have spilled over.
Even when using detergent combined with rinse aid, Bosch recommends making sure there is rinse aid in the compartment.
Remember to adjust the rinse aid setting according to your water’s hardness level.
Note:
Bosch recommends Finish® JetDry® rinse aid for their dishwashers.
2. An Issue with The Door
Problem:
Another possible reason for the red blinking floor light on your Bosch dishwasher is an issue with the door.
You see,
No dishwasher, including Bosch models, can start unless the door is fully locked.
This safety feature is designed to prevent flooding and protect users from potential steam-related hazards.
According to Lucas, “The problem comes in when the door appears locked, but it’s not securely latched.“
From my experience, this is a common problem with the 300, 500, and 800 series dishwashers.
In such a scenario, the InfoLight may start blinking.
Possible reasons why your dishwasher door isn’t fully closed include:
- Obstruction (food debris, racks, utensils)
- Faulty or broken door latch
- Door seal damage
- Misalignment
- Damaged door
Identification:
According to Lucas, “Before you delve into complex door troubleshooting, first check for any obstructions that might be preventing the door from latching properly.”
- Step 1: Inspect the area around the door latch and around the door for food debris or foreign objects that might be obstructing the latch.
- Step 2: Check if all the racks are fully pushed back, as they can obstruct the door’s path.
- Step 3: Check for large items, such as baking trays, cutting boards, or large pots, that may obstruct the dishwasher door when trying to close it.
- Step 4: Take a close look at the rubber gasket or door seal that runs along the edge of the door. It may be damaged or misaligned.
If there is no obstruction, the next step is to inspect the door latch assembly.
First:
Close the door to assess if you feel any resistance or hear unusual sounds. Take a moment to inspect the strike plate as well.
Next:
Locate the latch mechanism and inspect it for signs of wear and if it’s broken or loose. Also, perform a continuity test on the door switch to ensure its functionality.
Finally, inspect the edges of the door for any damage. Someone could have fallen or hit the door.
If there is a dent, it can prevent the door from latching properly.
Solution:
The solution here will vary depending on the specific issue you are facing.
If it’s due to obstructions, the fix is relatively straightforward, and no repairs are usually required.
However, if the door latch mechanism is damaged or faulty, you should replace it.
3. You Didn’t Press the Start Button or You Didn’t Press Fast Enough
Problem:
Another potential cause for the dishwasher’s InfoLight blinking red upon closing the door is when you don’t close the door fast enough after pressing the start button.
Typically:
You load the dishwasher, select the settings, press the start button, and close the door.
But how swift you are in closing the door matters.
According to Lucas, “The InfoLight may start blinking if you don’t close the door fast enough.”
Why?
As soon as you press the start button, the dishwasher springs into action, beginning with a check to ensure the door is securely locked.
If you fail to lock the door fast enough, the dishwasher might perceive it as a door problem, triggering the blinking light to draw your attention.
Identification and Solution:
As explained by this YouTuber, if this is the cause, the solution is to close the dishwasher door immediately after pressing the start button.
Surprisingly, in the reply section, several users reported that this simple trick worked for them.
“Thank you! All other suggestions point to major issues with the machine. Your tutorial worked!” One user replied.
4. The Dishwasher Is Stuck
Problem:
The Bosch line of dishwashers with InfoLight boasts advanced computerization.
At the heart of each dishwasher is a computerized control board that coordinates all the different components and functions.
However:
These dishwashers are prone to temporary errors, software glitches, or bugs, which may cause them to get stuck or behave unexpectedly.
For instance, according to Lucas…
“One major cause of a dishwasher getting stuck is a sudden power outage, which can lead to memory or software glitches in the control system.”
This may result in the dishwasher not starting, not responding to commands, or getting stuck at a particular point in the cycle.
One sign that your Bosch dishwasher may be stuck is a red light flashing on the floor.
Identification:
Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward way to visually identify a software glitch or error since they occur within the programming code.
According to Lucas, “Performing a reset is the standard troubleshooting step that can help rule out minor software glitches and potentially resolve certain issues.”
Now:
Though there are a number of ways to reset a Bosch dishwasher, the simplest and sometimes most effective method is the power reset.
Simply unplug the dishwasher and then plug it back into the power outlet after a few minutes.
If your dishwasher is hardwired, you’ll need to flip the circuit breaker off.
For instance:
This Redditor, who experienced this issue with his Bosch Integrated Dishwasher SMV46KX00G_BK, found that simply powering off the dishwasher resolved the problem.
Apart from the power reset, there are two other techniques you can utilize.
START/RESET Button Reset
- Open the door so that you can access the controls.
- Press and hold the “START/RESET” button until the “Active” Indicator Light goes out.
- Close the door. If you did it correctly, the dishwasher should start draining.
- Open the door again and press the On/Off button.
- Initiate a new cycle to check if the issue has been fixed.
Cancel-Drain Button Reset
- Step 1: Simply open the door and press and hold the Cancel-Drain button for 3 seconds. Close the door and wait for one minute.
- Step 2: Open the door again and press the on/off button. Finally, start a new cycle to test if the issue has been resolved.
5. Dirty or Damaged Door Seals
Problem:
Another possible reason your dishwasher’s InfoLight might be flashing could be due to a dirty door seal.
Now:
The door seal is the flexible rubber or silicone strip that lines the edges of the door.
As Lucas explains, “The purpose of the door seal is to ensure the dishwasher is watertight when shut.”
However:
The seal usually gets dirty, damaged, or worn due to exposure to detergents and heat.
In such a case, it can lead to door-locking issues, and asBosch explains, “A soiled door seal may not seal properly.”
Identification and Solution:
For this, you’ll need to open the dishwasher door and inspect the seal for dirt, debris, and mold.
Keep an eye out for food particles as well as signs of tears, cracks, or other damage.
Next:
Use a piece of soft cloth or sponge to remove food particles and build-up. Then dampen it with soapy water and carefully clean all the nooks and crannies.
Finally, ensure the seal is properly aligned.
“Seriously! I just spent two hours trying to figure out why it doesn’t work, even though I tried everything… I wiped the door seal and couldn’t believe it when it started to work. Thank you!!!”
That’s the comment this user left on a YouTube Video.
6. Setting Related: Delay Start or Pause
Problem:
Your InfoLight flashing might also be related to specific settings on your dishwasher.
According to Lucas, “The most common settings that would trigger the flashing red light include the child lock, Delay Start, and paused cycle.“
Now:
If your dishwasher was operating and you paused the cycle, the InfoLight might begin to blink as a reminder to continue the wash.
On the other hand:
The ‘delayed start’ feature lets you schedule your dishwasher to begin washing at a specific time, even up to 24 hours later.
As Lucas explains, “if the delayed start is activated, the dishwasher won’t start until you cancel the setting.”
Instead, the red floor light will start blinking.
Identification and Solution:
Now:
If the flashing red light is due to a paused cycle, the fix is straightforward. Press the On/Off button, and your wash cycle will resume.
On the other hand:
If the ‘delay start’ setting is activated, simply deactivate it for the washing to commence right away.
For most Bosch dishwasher models, this feature is activated/deactivated by pressing the delay button.
8. Error Detected
Problem:
Another possible reason for the flashing red floor light might be that the dishwasher is presenting you with an error code.
Simply put, error codes are your dishwasher’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s bothering me. Could you take a look?”
As Lucas explains,
“If your dishwasher’s red light is flashing, open the door and check for any displayed error codes on the control panel.”
If there is an error code, consult your user manual for its meaning and the recommended course of action.
The most common faulty code Lucas and I have come across is E15.
Identification and Solution:
Most Bosch dishwashers utilize a consistent set of error codes, ranging from E01 to E30.
Below is a table with some of these error codes and their meanings.
| Error Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| E01 | Water supply error |
| E02 | Heating element error |
| E03 | Not filling with water |
| E04 | Water not draining |
| E05 | Door not closing properly |
| E06 | Water sensor error |
| E07 | Intake opening is covered |
| E08 | Low water level |
| E09 | Water intake fault |
| E12 | Limescale build-up |
| E14 | Flow sensor error |
| E15 | Water in the base pan |
| E16, E17, E18 | Water flow problem |
| E24 | Drain pump error |
| E22 | Filter is blocked |
| E25 | Drain pump blocked, Filter clogged Pump impeller is jammed |
| E27 | Voltage is too low |
Most Affected Models
As I mentioned earlier, the InfoLight, also known as the flashing red floor light, is found on Bosch dishwashers that have hidden controls.
Here are some of the Bosch dishwashers that feature the InfoLight
| Name | Model Number |
|---|---|
| Bosch – 300 Series 24″ Bar Handle Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Tub | SHXM63WS5N |
| Bosch – 300 Series 24″ Scoop Handle Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Tub | SHSM63W55N |
| Bosch 300 Series 24″ Custom Panel Dishwasher with 16 Place Setting Capacity | SHVM63W53N |
| Bosch SHPM65W55N 24″ 500 Series Built In Fully Integrated Dishwasher | SHPM65W55N |
| Bosch 500 Series 24 In. Built In Fully Integrated Dishwasher | SHXM65W55N |
| Bosch 24″ 800 Series Built In Fully Integrated Dishwasher | SHPM78W55N |
| Bosch 800 24″ Dishwasher, 42 dB, 6/5 cycles – Flex 3rd Rack, InfoLight | SHXM78W55N |
| Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher with 3rd Rack, InfoLight®, and AquaStop® | SHVM78W53N |
| Bosch 800 Series 24 Inch Built In Fully Integrated Dishwasher | SHPM98W75N |
| Bosch 800 24″ Dishwasher, 39 dB, 6/6 cycles – MyWay 3rd Rack, InfoLight | SHXM98W75N |
| Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher with MyWay™ 3rd Rack, RackMatic®, AquaStop | SHVM98W73N |
| Bosch Series 4 Fully Retractable Dishwasher 60cm | SMV4EDX17E |
| Bosch 24″ 500 Series Pocket Handle Dishwasher with 16 Place Settings | SHPM65Z55N |
| Bosch 24″ 800 Series Fully Integrated Pocket Handle Dishwasher with Flexible 3rd Rack, InfoLight and CrystalDry | SHPM78Z55N |
| Bosch – 800 Series 24″ Top Control Built-In Dishwasher with CrystalDry, 42 dBa | SHXM78Z55N |
| Bosch 800 Series 24 Inch Fully Integrated Panel Ready Dishwasher with Touch Control Technology | SHVM78Z53N |
| 24″ Bosch 800 Series Top Control Built-In Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Tub | SHVM78Z53N |
| 24″ Bosch Benchmark Fully Integrated Smart Dishwasher | SHV88PZ63N |
| Bosch 500 Series 24 Inch Built In Bar Handle Dishwasher with 5 Wash Cycles | SHXM65Z55N |
| Bosch Dishwasher 24” Stainless steel | SHX65T5XUC |
| Bosch 300 Series SHS63VL2UC Fully Integrated Dishwasher | SHS63VL2UC |
| BOSCH Fully Integrated Dishwasher – 13 Place Setting – InfoLight – D Energy | SMV2HAX02G |
Conclusion
When the steady InfoLight on your Bosch dishwasher begins to blink, it’s an indicator that something’s amiss.
As we have discussed above, this problem has multiple causes, including
- Low rinse aid
- Obstruction on the door
- A faulty door latch
- Dirty or damaged door seal
- Not closing the door fast enough.
- Setting such as delay start
- Faulty code
- Software glitch
Fortunately, most of these issues are straightforward to diagnose and rectify. However, if you’re having difficulty pinpointing the cause, consult a professional repair technician.
Also, feel free to visit our Free Repair Community.
Finally, I’d love to hear from you. If you have any questions or comments, leave them in the section below.