Introduction
Bosch ships the 300 Series dishwasher with a pre‑installed power cord, a water inlet hose, a drain hose, a small installation kit, and a Quick‑Start leaflet. The full manual is available online, but many owners search for a “Bosch 300 Series dishwasher manual” because they need help understanding the cycle options, loading the third rack properly, or clearing the E24 error code. This guide provides all the specifications, a complete feature list, and step‑by‑step troubleshooting — no fluff, just the information that keeps your dishes coming out spotless.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | SHEM63W55N (Bosch 300 Series) |
| Type | 24‑inch built‑in dishwasher, front‑control |
| Capacity | 16 place settings (standard US) |
| Racks | 3 racks: upper, lower, and a third rack for silverware and small utensils |
| Noise Level | 44 dBA (among the quietest in its class) |
| Wash System | PrecisionWash® with intelligent sensors, 5‑level wash arms |
| Drying | AutoAir® drying: the door pops open slightly at the end of the cycle to let moisture escape |
| Cycles | Heavy, Auto, Normal, Speed60®, Delicate, Rinse |
| Options | Sanitize, Extra Dry, Delay Start (1‑24 hours), Half Load |
| Controls | Touch controls with an LED display (hidden on the top of the door) |
| Filtration | Triple‑stage filtration system (removes food particles without a hard food disposer) |
| Tub Material | Stainless steel (Polyinox) |
| Energy Rating | ENERGY STAR® certified |
| Water Usage | Approximately 3.5 gallons per cycle (Normal cycle) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 23.56 x 23.75 x 33.88 inches (59.8 x 60.3 x 86.1 cm) |
| Weight | 91 lbs (41.3 kg) |
| Included Accessories | Power cord, water inlet hose, drain hose, toe panel, mounting brackets, condensation strip, Quick‑Start Guide |
Key Features at a Glance
- Precision Wash® Sensors: Continuously monitor the water temperature and soil level, adjusting the wash cycle in real time for the best cleaning.
- Auto Air® Drying: At the end of a cycle, the door automatically pops open about 2‑3 inches, allowing steam to escape and dishes to dry naturally — no heating element, so plastics dry better and are not exposed to high heat.
- Third Rack (My Way Rack): A slim top tray designed for silverware, spatulas, measuring spoons, and even small espresso cups. It frees up space in the lower basket.
- Speed60® Cycle: Washes and dries a lightly soiled load in about 60 minutes.
- Rack Matic® Adjustable Upper Rack: The middle rack can be raised or lowered even when fully loaded, using levers on the sides. No need to empty it first.
- Touch Control Panel: The buttons are hidden on the top edge of the door, giving the front a clean, flush look. The LED display is visible only when the door is open.
- Aqua Stop® Leak Protection: A built‑in sensor detects leaks and shuts off the water supply automatically, even if you’re not home.
- Info Light®: A red light projects onto the floor while the dishwasher is running, so you know it’s in operation even though it’s nearly silent.
What’s Inside the Box
- Pre‑installed power cord (hardwired models may vary)
- Water inlet hose with AquaStop®
- Drain hose with a rubber boot
- Toe panel (the plastic kickplate at the bottom)
- Mounting brackets and screws for under‑counter installation
- Condensation strip (for countertop protection, if needed)
- Quick‑Start Guide and safety information
The dishwasher is designed for a standard 24‑inch under‑counter cutout. Installation should be performed by a qualified plumber, especially if replacing an old unit.
Understanding the Cycles and Options
Open the door slightly to access the buttons on the top edge. The LED display shows the selected cycle and remaining time.
| Cycle | Best For | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy | Pots, pans, baked‑on food, heavily soiled loads | 135‑145 min |
| Auto | Mixed loads with varying soil levels; sensors optimize wash | 120‑135 min |
| Normal | Everyday dishes, moderate soil | 105‑115 min |
| Speed60® | Lightly soiled loads, quick turnaround | 60 min |
| Delicate | Glassware, fine china, light soil | 90‑100 min |
| Rinse | Rinses dishes that will be washed later; no detergent needed | 9 min |
Options:
- Sanitize: Raises the final rinse temperature to 162°F (72°C), reducing bacteria. Great for baby bottles and cutting boards.
- Extra Dry: Increases the rinse temperature and extends the dry time. Use if AutoAir® alone leaves dishes too wet.
- Delay Start: Set the dishwasher to start in 1‑ to 24‑hour increments. Press the Delay button repeatedly, then press Start.
- Half Load: Reduces water and energy when washing a small load. Place dishes in both racks; the cycle adjusts automatically.
Loading the Dishwasher Properly
- Lower rack: Plates, dinner plates, pots, pans, and large bowls. Face all items toward the centre. Place large items at the sides and back, not blocking the spray arms.
- Upper rack: Glasses, cups, small bowls, and mugs. Place glasses between the tines, not over them, to prevent spotting. Use the Rack Matic® levers to adjust height: lift up for tall items below, push down for tall stemware above.
- Third rack (My Way Rack): Silverware, spatulas, ladles, measuring spoons. Lay items flat, not nesting together. The rack has a small recessed area for espresso cups or ramekins.
- Silverware basket (if included): Some models also include a traditional silverware basket that hangs on the lower rack. Use it for items too tall for the third rack, or for extra capacity. Mix spoons, forks, and knives in each compartment to prevent nesting.
Detergent and rinse aid:
- Use only automatic dishwasher detergent — tablets, powder, or gel. Place the detergent in the dispenser on the inside of the door. Close the lid until it clicks.
- Fill the rinse aid reservoir (next to the detergent dispenser) until the indicator turns dark. Rinse aid improves drying and reduces water spots. Refill monthly.
Cleaning the Filter and Spray Arms
Bosch dishwashers use a triple‑stage filtration system that traps food particles. Cleaning it monthly prevents odours and maintains performance.
- Remove the lower rack. Twist the large cylindrical filter (in the sump, below the lower spray arm) counter‑clockwise and lift it out.
- Pull out the fine mesh screen inside it. Rinse all parts under warm running water. Use a soft brush if needed. Do not use soap.
- Check the sump area for any debris (broken glass, toothpicks) and remove.
- Reassemble the filter and push it back into place, turning clockwise until it locks.
- Inspect the spray arms: lift the lower arm straight up, and unscrew the upper arm from underneath the rack. Clean the nozzles with a toothpick or a small brush. Reattach firmly — they should spin freely.
Error Codes and Troubleshooting
| Code | Meaning | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| E01 | Heating fault | Unplug the dishwasher (or turn off the breaker) for 2 minutes, then restart. If E01 returns, the heater or control board may need replacement. |
| E09 | Water heating system fault | Power cycle. If persistent, call a technician. |
| E15 | AquaStop® leak detected | The base pan has detected water. Turn off the water supply, unplug the unit, and check under the dishwasher for leaks. Tilt the machine back to drain any standing water. Contact a plumber if the leak source isn’t visible. |
| E18 | Water inlet issue (low water or clogged filter) | Check the water supply valve under the sink is fully open. Clean the inlet screen (located where the fill hose connects to the dishwasher) — it may be clogged with sediment. |
| E21 | Drain pump fault | Ensure the drain hose is not kinked or blocked. Check the sink’s garbage disposal plug (if connected) is removed. |
| E22 | Filter clogged or drain pump blocked | Clean the triple‑stage filter. Check the sump for foreign objects. |
| E24 | Drain hose kinked or blocked | Straighten the hose. Ensure the end isn’t pushed too far into the sink drain or garbage disposal. |
| E25 | Drain pump blocked | Remove the filter and check the pump impeller for debris (glass, plastic). Unplug the dishwasher first. |
| Dishes not drying | No rinse aid, or AutoAir® door blocked | Refill rinse aid. Ensure nothing is blocking the door from popping open (e.g., a towel hanging over the handle). Select Extra Dry if needed. |
| Dishwasher won’t start | Door not latched, delay start active, or power issue | Press firmly on the door until it clicks. Cancel any delay start. Check the circuit breaker. |
How to Reset the Dishwasher
- Soft reset: Open the door, press and hold the Start button for 3 seconds. This clears the current cycle. Then close the door and wait 1 minute. The dishwasher should be ready to start a new cycle.
- Hard reset (power cycle): Turn off the circuit breaker for the dishwasher (or unplug it) for 2 minutes. Turn it back on. This reboots the control board and often clears persistent error codes.
Quick Reference Card
| Task | How |
|---|---|
| Cancel a cycle | Open door, hold Start for 3 seconds |
| Add a forgotten item | Open door slowly; the cycle pauses. Add item, close door; it resumes automatically after a few seconds. |
| Clean the filter | Remove lower rack, twist filter counter‑clockwise, rinse under water, re‑insert |
| Check rinse aid level | The small indicator window next to the dispenser shows dark (full) or light (empty) |
| Force drain | Open door, press and hold Start for 3 seconds to cancel, then run a Rinse cycle |
Download the Bosch 300 Series Cheat Sheet
A one‑page PDF with cycle times, error codes, and loading tips. Print it and keep it near the dishwasher.
“Bosch SHEM63W55N Quick Guide (PDF)”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my dishwasher so quiet?
Bosch uses an Eco Silence motor and a fully insulated stainless‑steel tub. At 44 dBA, it’s among the quietest dishwashers available. The Info Light® beam on the floor is your confirmation that it’s running. - Do I need to rinse dishes before loading?
No. The Precision Wash® sensors are designed to handle food particles. Simply scrape off large chunks of food; rinsing is unnecessary and wastes water. - Why does the door pop open at the end of the cycle?
This is the Auto Air® drying feature. It’s normal. You can disable it by turning off the Extra Dry option in the settings (see the manual), but the door will no longer pop open automatically. - Can I use pods or powder detergent?
Yes, both work. Place the pod or powder in the detergent dispenser and close the lid. Do not throw pods directly into the tub; they’ll dissolve too early during the pre‑wash. - What should I do if the dishes come out with a white film?
This is usually hard‑water residue. Increase the rinse aid setting (hold the Extra Dry button for 3 seconds to access the menu, then adjust using the Start button). Ensure you’re using a good‑quality detergent. - Why is the red Info Light® still on long after the cycle?
The light turns off when the door is opened or the dishwasher is turned off. If it stays on, the dishwasher may still be in standby mode. - Can I wash plastic containers on the bottom rack?
It’s safer to place plastics on the upper rack, away from the heating element. The lower rack’s proximity to the heater can warp plastic. The Auto Air® drying also helps prevent warping because there’s no high‑heat drying cycle. - How do I remove the third rack for cleaning?
Pull the rack all the way out. On the rails, there are plastic stops; push the tabs and lift the rack off. Wash by hand with warm, soapy water. - Why does my dishwasher smell?
Food particles may be trapped in the filter. Clean the triple‑stage filter. Run a Heavy cycle with a cup of white vinegar placed in the upper rack (empty dishwasher) to eliminate odours. - What is the difference between the 300 Series and the 500 Series?
The 500 Series typically adds a third‑rack spray arm, quieter operation (39‑42 dBA), and sometimes a Flex Space third rack. The 300 Series is an excellent mid‑range option with most of the same cleaning performance. - Can I install the dishwasher myself?
Installation involves electrical, water, and drainage connections. If you’re not experienced, hire a qualified plumber or electrician. Bosch also offers installation services at purchase. - How long should a Bosch dishwasher last?
With proper maintenance (cleaning the filter, using rinse aid), a Bosch dishwasher typically lasts 10–15 years. Many parts are replaceable, extending its lifespan further.
Maintenance Schedule
- Monthly: Clean the filter. Refill rinse aid. Run a Heavy cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar.
- Every 3 months: Inspect and clean the spray arms. Check the drain hose for kinks.
- Annually: Clean the inlet screen. Check the door seal for cracks or mildew.
Copyright Warning!
Copyright 2026 productsmanuals.com All rights reserved. This Bosch 300 Series SHEM63W55N manual is original content and may not be copied, republished, or redistributed without written permission. Bosch, PrecisionWash, AutoAir, AquaStop, and the Bosch logo are trademarks of Robert Bosch GmbH. This guide is unofficial and not affiliated with Bosch.
