Miele Dishwasher Error Codes: Complete F-Code Reference
Miele dishwashers are built to last 20 years (tested for 10,000 cycles), but even the best appliances can display error codes. Miele uses an "F" prefix system with two-digit numbers. This guide covers every common Miele dishwasher fault code.
Most Common Miele Dishwasher Error Codes
F11 — Drainage Error
What it means: Water isn't draining properly after the wash cycle. Severity: Medium — often DIY fixable How to fix:
- Check the drain hose for kinks or loops
- Clean the triple filter system at the bottom of the dishwasher
- Verify the drain hose connection to the sink drain or garbage disposal
- Check that the dishwasher is installed at the correct height (drain hose should have a high loop)
F12 / F13 / F14 — Water Intake Error
What it means: The dishwasher can't fill with water within the expected time. Severity: Medium — usually DIY fixable How to fix: Check that the water stopcock (shutoff valve) is fully open. Clean the inlet filter screen. Verify water pressure is adequate. On F15, the incoming water may be too hot (above 65°C/149°F).
F24 — Heating Relay Fault
What it means: The relay that controls the heating element has failed. Severity: High — needs professional repair Common causes: Relay on the main control board has worn out or the heating element itself has a short.
F70 — Leak / Float Switch Activated
What it means: Water has been detected in the base pan of the dishwasher. Severity: High — needs immediate attention What to do: Turn off the dishwasher and water supply. Check under the unit for visible leaks. The float switch in the base triggers this code when water accumulates. Common causes: worn door seal, loose hose clamp, cracked sump.
F78 — Circulation Pump Blocked
What it means: The main circulation pump can't operate properly. Severity: High — needs professional repair Common causes: Foreign object blocking the pump impeller, pump motor failure.
F32 — Detergent Dispenser
What it means: The detergent dispenser mechanism has failed. Severity: Medium — sometimes DIY fixable What to do: Check for detergent buildup blocking the dispenser. Clean the dispenser thoroughly. If the mechanism is physically broken, it needs replacement.
F01 / F02 — Temperature Sensor
What it means: The water temperature sensor has short-circuited (F01) or has an open circuit (F02). Severity: High — needs professional repair
F68 / F69 — Circulation Pump Issues
What it means: The circulation pump is running but not at expected speed (F68) or is completely blocked (F69). Severity: High — needs professional repair for F68. For F69, check for debris in the pump first.
Why Miele Dishwashers Are Worth Repairing
Miele dishwashers cost $1,200-$3,000+ and are engineered for a 20-year lifespan. Even a $400-$600 repair on a 10-year-old Miele makes financial sense since a replacement would cost 2-5x more. Their build quality means repairs are usually straightforward — it's typically a single component failure rather than cascading problems.
Book Miele Dishwasher Repair →
For the complete Miele error code reference across all appliance types (dishwashers, washers, dryers, coffee machines), visit our Miele Error Codes Library.
